If you are from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey or New York, there are some things you should know before you buy Vermont real estate, whether it is open land, a house, or a condominium. Vermont has some of the strictest land use laws in the United States and it is best to find experienced, local […]
Vermont Law
Can a Contract be Terminated Because of COVID-19?
Governments across the country have closed public institutions and private businesses such as bars, restaurants, and cafés to limit the spread of COVID-19. In addition, businesses outside of the hospitality industry have closed offices and scaled back operations pursuant to government-imposed “shelter-in-place” or “safer-at-home” orders. Even absent such orders, businesses are reducing operations pursuant to […]
Business Insurance Coverage due to COVID-19 Closures
Governments across the country have closed public institutions and businesses such as bars, restaurants and cafés to limit the spread of COVID-19. These closures are necessary measures to deal with a significant threat to public health. These closures will have substantial impacts to these business’ income. A reasonable question our clients are asking is […]
Changes to Act 250 on Vermont Legislative Agenda
Changes to Act 250, Vermont’s historic state-wide land use law, are before the House Committee on Natural Resources, Fish, and Wildlife. In addition to updated and amended Criteria, the Committee is considering altering the appeal of permits issued by regional District Commissions. Presently, appeals from District Commission decisions are heard by the Vermont Superior Court, […]
Vermont Property Tax Appraisals – Do I Need to Respond to a Request for Information Sent by the Town Assessor or Listers?
The City of Burlington, Vermont plans to reappraise all property in the spring of 2020 and recently mailed every property owner in the city a letter asking for information relating to their property. Vermont reappraisals typically take place on a five- to seven-year cycle, either on a town-wide basis or among grouped properties, such […]
Can Canadians Buy Property in Vermont?
Canadians buy residential and commercial property in Vermont for a variety of reasons. Proximity to Canada is a plus, the climate is similar and the state offers breathtaking mountain vistas that make it a popular year-round destination for tourists. If you are a Canadian looking to buy property in Vermont, or anywhere else in […]
How Can I Get a Variance in Vermont?
It is no easy task to get a variance in Vermont. Variances, by their very nature, contravene the goal of zoning. They are, as defined by Vermont law, “individual exceptions to generally applicable rules of zoning, the purpose of which is to bring about the orderly physical development of the community.” Variances, in essence, act […]
Understanding Vermont Municipal Zoning Regulations
Vermont municipal zoning regulations are among the strongest in the United States. Along with Vermont Act 250, the state’s municipal zoning regulations focus on protecting natural environmental features and the “character” of a given area.
