Bill > H3611

This bill proposes changes to Chapter 40A of the General Laws concerning non-conforming structures, which are buildings or parts of buildings that do not comply with current zoning laws. The bill clarifies that local zoning laws can impose penalties of up to three hundred dollars per violation, with each day of continued violation counting as a separate offense. Crucially, it establishes time limits for legal actions related to zoning violations. Specifically, if real property was improved and used according to an original building permit, any legal action to change that use or alter the structure must be initiated and a notice recorded in the registry of deeds within six years of the alleged violation. For actions compelling the removal, alteration, or relocation of a structure due to zoning violations or conditions of a variance or special permit, the notice must be recorded within ten years of the alleged violation. Furthermore, if a structure has existed for at least ten years and no notice of a zoning violation has been recorded within that ten-year period, the structure will be considered legally non-conforming, subject to existing provisions for such structures.