Dighton could charge fees on certain larger developments

If Dighton adopts a bylaw, it could require a fee as a condition for approving certain developments. Fees could apply to residential and non-residential projects above the bylaw's threshold when they are built, enlarged, substantially rehabilitated, or changed to a new use. The bylaw must set a project threshold and identify which projects are covered. The act would take effect upon passage.

Before adopting a fee bylaw, Dighton would have to study project impacts and set fees using a method consistent with the study. These requirements apply before the town adopts a bylaw imposing the fees. The study must show how covered projects relate to the purposes for which the fees would be spent. The bylaw must state the fee amount or how it is calculated, how fees may increase, and which projects they cover. The study must happen before the bylaw is adopted.

Dighton could create a separate fund for the fees, administered by the Board of Selectmen. The fund would hold fees collected under a bylaw authorized by this act. The town may create the fund, but would not have to. If created, the fund's money could not go to the town's general treasury or be used as general revenue; it would be administered for this act's purposes.