Local officials inspect properties and enforce zoning rules

Local officials may inspect properties, order violations fixed, and seek court action to stop unlawful building or land use. These rules cover buildings, structures, and land that violate zoning rules or related rules made under state law or a special act. For violations involving land grading, earth removal, or soil erosion controls, officials may issue a written order that takes effect immediately. These provisions take effect October 1, 2026. A written stop order for grading, earth removal, or soil erosion violations takes effect immediately.

People involved in zoning violations may face daily fines and other penalties for continuing violations or ignoring an order. Penalties may apply to people responsible for a violation, including property owners, tenants, builders, and contractors. Owners, agents, tenants, builders, contractors, and others who commit, help with, or maintain a violation may be fined $10 to $100 per day. For a willful offense, a court may impose a fine of $100 to $250 per day, up to 30 days in jail, or both. A court that finds a willful violation must allow the town its costs and reasonable attorney fees. A person who fails to follow an order may face a civil penalty of up to $2,500 payable to the town. In a criminal case, a person may ask the court to pause the case when a separate civil case could change how the zoning rule is interpreted. Daily fines apply for each day a violation continues. A regular order must be followed within 10 days after it is served; a grading-related stop order must be followed immediately.