H.157 is a bill that aims to provide municipalities with permanent zoning and subdivision bylaws, along with an approved town plan, the ability to designate Tier 1A and Tier 1B areas. These designated areas would be exempt from the requirements of 10 V.S.A. chapter 151 until December 31, 2029. This exemption is intended to streamline land use processes and encourage development within these municipalities.

Additionally, the bill mandates the Agency of Natural Resources to shift the stormwater permitting process to a delegated model. Under this model, certified professional engineers, approved by the State, would be responsible for conducting stormwater assessments, designing solutions, and permitting their own work. The State would periodically review the work of these certified engineers and retain the authority to revoke their certification if their work does not meet satisfactory standards.