Government

Town Board sets public hearing to discuss tent applications

CARRIE MILLER FILE PHOTO | Vineyard 48 erected four outdoor tents over the weekend violating town policy, according to Southold Town attorney Martin Finnegan.
CARRIE MILLER FILE PHOTO | Vineyard 48 erected outdoor tents violating town policy, according to Southold Town attorney Martin Finnegan.

The Town Board is seeking to amend its building code to give it more control over applications that involve setting up tents.

On Tuesday, the board set the first public hearing on the proposed code change for March 11 at 7:30 p.m. in Town Hall.

The amendment seeks to codify the town’s existing policy to “eliminate any confusion” over issuing tent permits to businesses — most notably wineries — for special events or additional seating during the summer months, town attorney Martin Finnegan said Tuesday.

The new legislation would include a definition of “canopies” and regulations for their use.

The proposed measure follows a dispute the town and controversial Vineyard 48 had last summer over the existing law. At the time, the Cutchogue winery argued that it was within its legal rights to erect four “canopies” — which are not enclosed— regardless of the town’s laws on tents, which, by definition are enclosed. The proposal would also give the board more control over revoking tent or canopy permits after they’re issued, Mr. Finnegan said.

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