New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Res - Commissioner, Department of Resources and Economic Development
New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules – Res (Commissioner, Department of Resources and Economic Development)
1. Overview
The New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules (Res) governs the policies, procedures, and responsibilities of the Commissioner of the Department of Resources and Economic Development (DRED).
DRED is responsible for managing the state’s natural resources, recreational areas, and economic development programs, including:
State parks, forests, and historic sites
Outdoor recreation management
Business development initiatives
Resource protection and conservation
The Res rules provide detailed administrative guidance to enforce state statutes related to these areas.
2. Scope and Purpose
The Res rules serve to:
Define the powers and duties of the Commissioner.
Establish rules for management of state lands, parks, and recreational areas.
Regulate permits, licenses, and commercial activities on state-managed lands.
Ensure public safety, environmental protection, and compliance with applicable laws.
Provide procedures for appeals, inspections, and enforcement of regulations.
3. Key Areas Covered
A. Management of State Lands
Guidelines for use, conservation, and maintenance of forests, parks, and historic sites.
Rules for camping, hiking, boating, and other recreational activities.
Authority to issue permits or set fees for use of facilities.
B. Commercial and Economic Activities
Licensing rules for concessionaires and commercial operators on state lands.
Regulations on tourism, business development projects, and resource-based economic programs.
Requirements for environmental assessments before commercial operations.
C. Resource Protection
Standards to protect wildlife, natural habitats, and water resources.
Rules for timber harvesting, land development, and natural resource management.
Enforcement measures against unauthorized use or environmental violations.
D. Public Access and Safety
Guidelines for visitor safety, emergency procedures, and signage.
Rules for restricted areas, hunting and fishing, and special-use permits.
Provisions for compliance inspections and enforcement.
E. Administrative Procedures
Procedures for appealing decisions made by the Commissioner.
Recordkeeping requirements for permits, licenses, and enforcement actions.
Public notice requirements for rule changes, closures, or special events.
4. Enforcement and Penalties
The Commissioner or authorized staff may inspect, monitor, and enforce rules on state lands.
Violations of Res rules may result in:
Fines or penalties
Revocation of permits or licenses
Suspension of commercial or recreational privileges
Removal from state-managed lands if rules are violated
5. Public Participation
The Res rules provide mechanisms for the public to participate in decision-making, including:
Public hearings on proposed rule changes
Opportunities to submit comments or objections
Procedures for requesting special permits or exceptions
6. Summary Table
| Feature | Res – Commissioner, Department of Resources and Economic Development |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Govern management of state lands, parks, resources, and economic development programs |
| Scope | Parks, forests, recreation, commercial permits, resource protection, public safety |
| Licensing/Permits | Concessionaires, commercial operators, recreational activities |
| Resource Protection | Wildlife, forests, water resources, timber management |
| Public Safety | Visitor rules, restricted areas, emergency procedures |
| Enforcement | Inspections, fines, revocations, suspensions |
| Public Participation | Hearings, comment submissions, special permits |
7. Legal Significance
The Res rules give the Commissioner clear authority to manage and protect state resources.
They provide procedures for enforcement and accountability to ensure safe and responsible use of state lands.
They balance resource conservation with economic and recreational development.
Public and commercial entities are legally bound to follow these administrative rules while operating on state-managed properties.
In short:
The Res rules in New Hampshire define how the Commissioner manages state parks, forests, and resources, regulates recreational and commercial activities, and enforces environmental protection and public safety. They provide the framework for responsible use, compliance, and appeals, ensuring both conservation and economic development goals are met.
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