Vermont is updating how we plan for land use, housing, conservation, and community investment. This spring, the Bennington County Conservation District is hosting a new round of Act 181 and Act 59 Listening Sessions to ensure that local perspectives are included in state decisions. These sessions are open to all residents, landowners, farmers, business owners, municipal leaders, and community members who care about the future of our towns, working lands, and natural resources.

What’s Changing Under Act 181?

Act 181 replaces Act 250's old size-based triggers with a location-based tier system. Tier 1 (about 2% of Vermont) gets less regulation. Tier 2 (about 90%) keeps existing rules but adds a new road rule. Tier 3 (an estimated 5-9%) triggers Act 250 for any construction, including a single house, though agriculture and forestry uses remain exempt. 

Join us on May 28, 2026 at 4:00PM at the Arlington Common

These listening sessions are designed to:

• Gather local perspectives on land use, housing, conservation, and community priorities;
• Identify opportunities and concerns unique to Bennington County;
• Ensure rural, agricultural, and forest‑based communities are heard; and
• Inform both Act 181 (land‑use modernization) and Act 59 (regional conservation planning).

Your lived experience is data. Your stories shape policy.

Your voice matters. Please use it!

You don’t need any prior knowledge—just your perspective.

Don't be shy, Everyone with a stake in Bennington County’s future is encouraged to attend:

Residents & renters - Farmers & forestland owners - Business owners - Conservation volunteers - Youth & educators - Municipal officials - Anyone who cares about land, housing, and community vitality

The full act as of 2024. Everyone should read thoroughly: 

Register here:

Join us. Bring a neighbor. Help shape the future of our communities.