How do I apply for a Determination of Applicability?

Several weeks before the application: obtain a list of abutters from the Assessor's office in Town Hall; fill out the RDA application form; and prepare site plans and other supporting materials.

Submit the application materials to the Conservation office in Town Hall two weeks before a regular Commission meeting date. (View the Meeting Dates (PDF)) Also, send a copy to DEP Northeast Regional Office in Wilmington.

Upon receipt of the application materials, the Commission and Administrator will schedule site inspections, mail the legal notice to the abutters, publish the legal notice in the newspaper, and place the matter on their next agenda.

The Commission will issue a Determination of Applicability within 21 days of receipt of the RDA. They may confirm whether wetlands are or are not present. They may determine that proposed work will require a Notice of Intent, or they may determine that work may proceed provided that certain basic conditions are met (erosion control, site stabilization, etc.)

A Determination is valid for three years. It may not be revised or extended.

Upon completion of work, the applicant requests a final inspection by the Conservation Commission. If the Commission is satisfied with the work, they will issue a letter closing the file.

Show All Answers

1. What are wetlands?
2. Why are wetlands important?
3. What laws apply to wetlands in Reading?
4. How can I tell if there are wetlands on or near my property?
5. When do I need to get a wetlands permit?
6. What kinds of permits are there, and which one should I apply for?
7. What happens after I receive the permit?
8. Where can I obtain further information?
9. How do I apply for a Minor Project Permit?
10. How do I apply for a Determination of Applicability?
11. How do I apply for an Order of Resource Area Delineation?
12. How do I apply for an Order of Conditions?