May 27, 2015



AGENCY: 01-672 - Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry, Maine Land Use Planning Commission (LUPC)
CHAPTER NUMBER AND TITLE: Ch. 10, Land Use Districts and Standards: Designated Areas of Cultural or Special Significance
ADOPTED RULE NUMBER: 2015-100
CONCISE SUMMARY: The Maine Land Use Planning Commission has adopted amendments to Ch. 10, Land Use Districts and Standards, that allow the Commission to designate areas of cultural, historical, or other special significance. Within a designated area, applicants may apply for a permit to reconstruct in place or expand legally existing, nonconforming structures, provided that proposed reconstruction projects conform to the purpose of designation. In designating a proposed area, the Commission will consider the unique cultural or historic characteristics of the proposed area that may benefit the public by preserving the look and feel of the community, attracting visitors and new residents, and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Once an area is designated by the Commission, its purpose, specific geographic location, and other relevant information would be recorded in an Appendix to Ch. 10, Land Use Districts and Standards, and property owners within the designated area would then be able to apply for a permit to reconstruct or replace structures in place, so long as the proposed reconstruction project conforms with the purpose of the designation.
EFFECTIVE DATE: May 29, 2015
AGENCY CONTACT PERSON: Ben Godsoe, Maine Land Use Planning Commission, 22 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0022. Telephone: (207) 287-2619. E-mail: Benjamin.Godsoe@Maine.gov .
WEBSITE: http://www.maine.gov/dacf/lupc/index.shtml .
DEPARTMENTAL RULE-MAKING LIAISON: Mari.Wells@Maine.gov .