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A permit is required when an "activity" will be located in, on or over any protected natural resource, or located adjacent to (A) a coastal wetland, great pond, river, stream or brook or significant wildlife habitat contained within a freshwater wetland, or (B) certain freshwater wetlands.

This law requires review of developments that may have a substantial effect upon the environment. These types of development have been identified by the Legislature, and include developments such as projects occupying more than 20 acres, large structures and subdivisions, and oil terminal facilities.

The permit is valid for two years provided you comply with all the standards. Permits for replacement of structures (Section 4) are valid for three years. If your activity is not complete at that time, you may file another notice provided the activity can meet the Rule standards in place at that time.

Answer: The setback for structures on great ponds or rivers flowing into great ponds is 100 feet. A 75 foot setback applies to all other water bodies, streams and wetlands.

1. Introduction. A "permit by rule" or "PBR", when approved by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), is an approval for an activity that requires a permit under the Natural Resources Protection Act (NRPA).

For specific information about your local shoreland zoning provisions, refer to your municipal ordinance. Most land uses within 250 feet of Maine's rivers, wetlands, lakes, the ocean, and within 75 feet of certain streams are subject to the regulation of Maine's Mandatory Shoreland Zoning Act.