The Enforcement and Compliance Program of the Natural Resources Board addresses Act 250 violations across Vermont under the Uniform Environmental Law Enforcement Act (10 V.S.A. Chapter 201) to protect the environment, and public health. Act 250 enforcement is also intended to prevent any unfair economic advantage gained through violations and deter repeated violations. In furtherance of these goals, the Board promotes compliance with Act 250 by enforcing the specific conditions in Land Use Permits issued by the District Commissions and by requiring projects that are subject to jurisdiction obtain Act 250 permits.
The Enforcement Program is directed by the Chair of the Board and is implemented through attorneys and Compliance and Enforcement Officers. Enforcement actions seek compliance with permit conditions, the filing of permit applications, remediation, and the imposition of civil penalties, as necessary.
Public Notice and Opportunity to Comment on Proposed Actions
Pursuant to the public participation provisions of 10 V.S.A. § 8020, the Board posts proposed enforcement actions on this website for a 30-day public comment period. During that period, any person may submit written comments to the Board concerning the proposed enforcement action. The Board reviews all comments that are timely submitted, and determines whether to withdraw the action, or file the action, including all written comments with the Superior Court, Environmental Division.
Enforcement Actions Filed in Court
The Board posts all enforcement actions online when they are filed with the Court. Any aggrieved person who has filed a written comment with the Board on the proposed enforcement action may ask the Court for permission to intervene to show that the action is insufficient to carry out the goals of the Uniform Environmental Law Enforcement Act (10 V.S.A. Chapter 201). To do so, the aggrieved person must file a motion for permissive intervention with the Court within 14 days of the date that the NRB files the enforcement action at the Court.
Please contact the Court for the official filing date.
Vermont Superior Court
Environmental Division
32 Cherry Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 303
Burlington, VT 05401
Tel. (802) 951-1740
Environmental Division Website