There were differing decisions regarding a Massachusetts couple’s appeal of Edgecomb shoreland zone violations. Alison and Mike Saylor of Carlisle, Massachusetts appealed three violations assessed by Code Enforcement Officer George Chase on their Shore Road property purchased last year.

On March 5, the Saylors won their appeal regarding a campsite on their property. On March 8, Chase described the ordinance as making certain allowances for lots with less than an acre. He described the Saylors’ lot as less than 21,000 square feet. “The wording does accommodate a campsite on a lot that small. So, they can put a camper there, but not a camp,” he said. 

The second appeal was denied regarding a camp (structure) within the 75-foot shoreland zone. The camp was built after 1989 so it didn’t fall under any “grandfathered” provisions. “The camp is illegal and has to be removed,” Chase said. 

The Saylors have 15 days to appeal the ruling to selectmen. If the camp isn’t removed, then a fine ranging from $150 to $5,000 per day is possible, said Chase.