Final answer:
The time a board has to perform a substantive review of an application varies and is governed by specific laws and regulations, which can differ depending on the application's nature and reviewing board. Usually, these time frames are outlined in relevant statutes or board policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The length of time a board has to perform a substantive review of an application can vary significantly based on specific regulations or laws that are applicable to the type of application being reviewed. This timeframe can be dictated by statutes, regulations, or internal policies of the reviewing authority. For instance, certain planning boards must provide a decision within 90 days after the close of a public hearing to comply with local zoning laws. The timeframe might also be affected by the complexity of the application, workload, and procedural requirements. It is advisable for applicants to check the specific regulations that govern the entity they are submitting an application to for the most accurate information.
Applicants should note that a substantive review involves a detailed examination of all aspects of an application to ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies. As such, boards usually have clearly outlined time frames in place to manage expectations and procedural fairness. However, it's not uncommon for applicants to be able to request an expedited review under certain circumstances, potentially shortening this timeline.