Anyone who wants a permit to build in Lexington must comply with the Federal Endangered Species Laws. These include the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (PL 93-205; 16 USC 1531 et seq., as amended). Violations of these laws generally are punishable by civil and/or criminal penalties.
In order to comply one MUST first determine that the development or alteration proposed will not have an impact on an endangered species or its habitat. Maps are available from the Conservation Commission's office which delineate the areas in Lexington that are known to have endangered or threatened species of plants or animals.If the proposed development is in one of the sensitive areas, a plan to protect the endangered species must be worked out and formally agreed to by the Conservation Commission before any permit will be granted for any work. Any work prior to the granting of permission is subject to severe penalties. Even once a permit is issued, one must not harm an endangered species,or the civil/criminal penalties will apply.
Return to the Conservation Home Page.
Last updated 1/25/99