MD HB258

Extends the comprehensive review cycle for local critical area programs from 6 years to 10 years

Adds a statutory definition of "adjacent" for land classifications, meaning areas that share a common boundary line or are separated by a public/private street, road, right-of-way, or utility/access easement

Requires regulations to be adopted by affirmative vote of the Commission, and changes locational standards for growth allocation from "adjacent" to "contiguous and adjoining" existing developed areas

Establishes separate reference dates for correcting mapping mistakes: December 1, 1985 for the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area and June 1, 2002 for the Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area

Expands who may prepare tree replanting plans for violations to include licensed foresters, licensed landscape architects, or any other qualified professional approved by the Department, and redirects violation damages payments to local jurisdictions rather than the Department