The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recently has created new guidelines for the Permit by Rule (PBR) process. Any activity that might affect the health of the pond is covered by this rule; this includes any soil disturbance or vegetation removal within 75 feet of the shore, movement of rocks or vegetation or the use of rip rap.  This handout describes the sections of the rule.  The state currently charges a fee of $320.  For up to date information go to the Maine government website here.