Land Use and Zoning Law

Land use and zoning law governs the use and development of real estate and is regulated at the federal, state, and local levels. Vermont happens to have some of the strictest land use and zoning laws in the country. As a result, development in Vermont requires navigating a maze of land use permits, regulations, and requirements. 

For more than 30 years, the real estate team at Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick, LLP has been providing guidance and representation to individual and institutional developers as they move through this complex process. We have a deep understanding of Vermont’s development, land use, and zoning laws, and we take pride in helping our clients achieve their development goals in the most efficient, seamless, and economical manner possible. 

How a Vermont Land Use and Zoning Lawyer Can Help

In Vermont, there is a notable shortage of affordable homes available for sale and long-term rental, but there is an equally significant shortage of land that can be developed for housing, apartments, and businesses. This discrepancy in supply and demand further complicates the development, land use, and zoning regulations throughout the state. Fortunately, we can help. Contact a Vermont real estate lawyer today to learn about your rights and options. 

At Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick, LLP, we help clients navigate all aspects of development, land use, and zoning, including: 

• Federal, State and local permitting and appeal
• Act 250 review
• Compliance review
• Appellate advocacy
• Pre-application planning
• Environmental protection litigation

Act 250

Act 250 is a Vermont law regulating land use and development throughout the state. It is administered by the Natural Resources Board (NRB) and issues land use permits and decisions through nine different District Environmental Commissions offices. 

If you wish to purchase property with the intent to develop or subdivide, it is critical to first determine whether you will need an Act 250 permit. The following scenarios require an Act 250 permit:

• Commercial projects covering areas larger than 10 acres in towns with permanent zoning regulations
• Commercial projects covering areas larger than one acre in towns that do not have permanent zoning regulations
• Projects involving the subdivision of 10 or more lots within a five-year period

By working with an Act 250 lawyer, you can ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, and achieve your development goals in the most cost-effective and timely manner possible. 

Contact a Vermont Land Use and Zoning Lawyer Today

Whatever stage of the development process you happen to be at, the skilled real estate team at Bergeron, Paradis & Fitzpatrick, LLP can help. We provide counsel, advice and representation prior to the application, through the permit and review process, and throughout any appellate litigation. Attorneys Edward D. Fitzpatrick, Daniel P. O’Rourke, and Chad V. Bonanni have extensive experience in all areas of development, land use, and zoning. They will thoroughly analyze the details of your unique circumstances and help you determine how to proceed. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and to learn more.