MA H1878

Amends Chapter 40A, Section 17 to require plaintiffs challenging land use approvals to notify all defendants within 14 days of filing and submit an affidavit of notice within 21 days, or the complaint will be dismissed

Limits judicial review to the administrative record only, prohibiting courts from considering evidence not presented to the board of appeals or special permit granting authority unless it was improperly excluded

Establishes that courts may only overturn local land use decisions if they are "arbitrary, capricious, or illegal," with decisions upheld if supported by substantial evidence in the record

Requires non-municipal plaintiffs appealing project approvals to post a bond covering twice the estimated annual carrying costs plus defendant's attorney fees for the expected duration of the appeal delay

Bond is forfeited to the property owner to cover carrying costs and legal fees if the plaintiff does not substantially prevail on the appeal