Bill > S1448

This bill modifies Section 10 of Chapter 40A of Massachusetts general laws regarding variances, which are legal permissions granted by local authorities to deviate from standard zoning regulations. The proposed change clarifies the timeframe and process for exercising variance rights. Specifically, the bill establishes that variance rights will lapse if not exercised within one year of being granted, with a potential six-month extension available if the grantee submits a written application to the permit granting authority before the original one-year period expires. If the permit granting authority does not respond to the extension request within 30 days, and the original one-year period has expired, the variance rights can only be reestablished through a new hearing and notice process. This amendment provides more structured guidelines for how and when variance rights can be used or extended, offering both clarity for property owners and maintaining local government oversight of zoning exceptions.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1448