Relative to terrain permitting.
The bill's implementation is expected to have notable financial implications for both state and local levels. While it could decrease state revenue due to fewer applications being processed, estimated reductions in annual fee revenue range from $100,000 to $500,000 beginning in FY2026. Conversely, local municipalities may experience increased expenditures of $500,000 to $1,000,000 annually due to the need for contracting engineering firms for project reviews that the state would no longer manage. While smaller projects may ease the workload at the state level, the potential offloading of costs to local governments raises concerns about financial implications and resource allocation at the municipal level.
Senate Bill 110 aims to amend the regulations surrounding terrain alteration permitting in New Hampshire. It establishes a new fee structure for applications concerning terrain alteration, increasing the threshold for certain projects from at least 100,000 square feet to at least 200,000 square feet, which may significantly reduce the number of required applications. Additionally, this bill mandates the Department of Environmental Services to create a 'permit by notification' option for smaller projects, aiming for a more streamlined permitting process for developments under 150,000 square feet. The intention is to simplify regulations and improve efficiency in processing applications, thereby potentially encouraging further development within the state.
Notable points of contention arise from the differing perspectives surrounding the bill's increased thresholds. Proponents advocate for reduced regulatory burdens that could facilitate economic growth and development. However, critics argue that decreased state oversight may lead to inadequate management of environmental impacts, particularly concerning stormwater runoff and natural resource protection. The amendment's potential to shift the financial burden from the state to local municipalities has also raised concerns within communities that may not have the resources to handle increased engineering costs and environmental challenges associated with unregulated projects.