Bill > H4047

This bill modifies the existing law regarding special permits and public notices for zoning and development proposals in municipalities. The bill makes several key changes: First, it extends the public notice requirements from 2 to 4 successive weeks, increasing the minimum notification period from 14 to 30 days, and now mandates that notices be posted not only in city or town halls but also on the municipality's website. Second, the bill expands the definition of "parties in interest" for judicial review purposes to include non-abutters (people who do not directly border a proposed development) who can demonstrate that a proposed use might violate municipal ordinances related to nuisance, environment, or quality of life, or that the permit decision was procedurally flawed. Third, the bill requires petitions to include a map of the area in question along with the names and street addresses of all abutters. Finally, it introduces a new provision allowing non-abutters who qualify as parties in interest to submit a written demand for relief to the permitting authority before filing a court appeal, requiring the authority to review and respond to such demands. These changes aim to increase transparency, public participation, and accountability in the special permitting process.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4047