Technical Assistance

The Department shall be available to assist Local Governments and Applicants apply 225 CMR 29.00, applicable sections of M.G.L. c. 25A, and Department Guidelines. Upon request, the Department shall answer questions and provide guidance on the Consolidated Local Permit Application and requirements of the relevant regulations and laws, including in disputes between Applicants and Local Governments. The Department’s services shall be provided free of charge to Applicants and Local Governments. The Departmentmay provide assistance in matters including, but not limited to, determinations of completeness for pre-filing requirements and Consolidated Local Permit Applications, the Consolidated Local Permit Application review process, understanding Site Suitabilityand Criteria-specific Site SuitabilityScore results, requests for information as outlined under 225 CMR 29.08(4)(b), and the development of appropriate Minimization and Mitigation measures. (4) Any guidance, opinion, or other assistance provided by the Department is advisory in nature and shall not be considered a legal opinion, nor shall it be binding on the Applicant or the Local Government.