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Welcome to the Natural Resources Board

View of the Natural Resources Board headquarters in Montpelier, VTThank you for visiting the Natural Resources Board (NRB), and welcome to our website. The NRB is an independent entity in state government that oversees the administration of Act 250, Vermont’s land use and development law.

Act 250 was enacted by the Vermont legislature in 1970 to protect the environment in balance with sustainable development. The law sets goals and priorities for environmental and scenic protections and is responsible for helping Vermont retain its rural character, preserve the natural environment and support the state's environmental diversity - which foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place.

The goal of our website is to make it easy to find the information you need about the purpose and history of Act 250 and the land use permit application process.

The NRB is currently working on many initiatives and improvements. In 2015, the NRB, in collaboration with the Agency of Natural Resources, participated in a week-long Lean event for process improvement that focused on identifying values as well as obstacles within the Act 250 application process. A two-year implementation plan was developed and Key Performance Indicators were established to track progress. The results of these efforts are making and will continue to make the entire process more clear and straightforward and increase predictability. We look forward to working with you and hearing your ideas and comments.

Not all projects are subject to Act 250. Only projects that constitute “development” or “subdivision,” as defined in the Act 250 statute, require an Act 250 permit. See Act 250 Permit Application for more information about which projects require an Act 250 permit and the requirements of the Act 250 permit application process. You are also encouraged to contact the appropriate Act 250 District Coordinator for your area for additional assistance.

Need help?

 Not sure if you need a permit or have questions about Act 250?  Contact the Act 250 District Coordinator in the district  where your project is located.

Winooski River Valley