In any proceeding, stipulations of fact may be introduced in evidence with respect to any issue. At the discretion of the hearing officer, the parties may, by written stipulation filed with the hearing officer at any stage of the proceeding, or by oral stipulation made at hearing, agree as to the truth of any fact pertinent to the proceeding. The hearing officer may require parties to propose stipulations. In making findings, the hearing officer need not be bound by a stipulation which is in contravention of law or erroneous on its face.
456 CMR, § 13.11