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New Developments in Environmental Law

McGregor Publishes Environmental Law Update 2024-2025

Written by / Published Tuesday, 18 March 2025 13:41

Firm founder and senior partner Gregor McGregor this year has prepared his annual survey of environmental law developments in PowerPoint form. It will be further updated throughout the current year. It covers federal, Massachusetts, and municipal court cases, laws, regulations, policies, and enforcement.

McGregor Pays Tribute to the Giants in the History of Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Laws

Written by / Published Wednesday, 12 March 2025 13:30

Gregor I. McGregor, Esq retires after 50-years.Mr. McGregor’s keynote address to the Annual Environmental Conference (AEC) of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC) at Holy Cross College on March 1, 2025, marked his retirement from the MACC Board after 50 years.

Brookline Ban on Smoking Products Upheld by SJC Has Environmental Implications

Written by / Published Wednesday, 12 March 2025 12:26

The Town of Brookline smoking ban case has favorable implications for local environmental laws.

Massachusetts’ New Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Law Now in Effect with Final Regulations

Written by / Published Thursday, 06 February 2025 16:39

Section 8 of the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act (Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024) amended Section 3 of the Massachusetts Zoning Act. This took effect on February 2, 2025, requiring municipalities to allow ADUs (900 or fewer square feet) as of right in most single-family residential zoning districts, with some important limitations.

McGregor to Give Keynote Address and Smith to Present on Enforcement at MACC’s Annual Environmental Conference

Written by / Published Thursday, 06 February 2025 15:18

Firm senior partner Gregor I. McGregor will deliver the keynote address at the Annual Environmental Conference (AEC) of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions (MACC). This is to mark his retirement from the MACC Board of Directors after 50 years.

Third Real Estate Permit Extension Act Enacted in Massachusetts

Written by / Published Wednesday, 27 November 2024 12:00

On November 20, 2024, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed the “Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts’ economic leadership.” Also known as the “Mass Leads Act”, this comprehensive economic development bill includes provisions to again extend the life of many types of land use permits issued by municipal, regional, and state government.

Massachusetts’ New Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Law: What Homeowners Need to Know

Written by / Published Tuesday, 26 November 2024 15:29

Massachusetts recently enacted a new housing statute that makes it easier for homeowners to create accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their residential properties. These commonly were called “in-law apartments” but the new law allows much more.

Can a Conservation Commission Approve a Project Under the State Wetlands Act But Disapprove It Under a Local Bylaw?

Written by / Published Tuesday, 26 November 2024 14:53

A commonly asked question and a conundrum for many is whether and how a conservation commission can approve a project under the state Wetlands Protection Act, G.L. c. 131, § 40 (the “WPA” or “Act”), while at the same time disapprove the project under a local wetlands protection bylaw or ordinance.

Firm's Annual Update of Environmental Law 2024 Presentation Now Available

/ Published Wednesday, 06 November 2024 13:36

Firm senior partner Gregor I. McGregor and firm associate Caroline E. Smith this fall presented our Environmental Law Update 2024 to the Real Estate Bar Association (REBA) and Massachusetts Municipal Lawyers Association (MMLA) at their annual meetings.

Overturning the Chevron Doctrine and the Practical Impacts of the SCOTUS Decision

/ Published Friday, 18 October 2024 14:31

On June 28, 2024, the United States Supreme Court overturned Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council, 467 U.S. 837, 104 S. Ct. 2778 (1984). The case is Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, 144 S. Ct. 2244 (2024)

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