Town seeks comment on tent regulation amendment

The Southold Town Board is requesting public comment on a proposed building code amendment that would give the town more control over applications that involve setting up tents.

The change seeks to clarify the town’s existing policy in regards to issuing tent permits to businesses — most notably wineries — for special events or additional seating during the summer months, according to town officials.

The draft law would include a definition of “canopies” and regulations for their use.

The proposed measure follows a dispute the town and 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, according to the proposed code change.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Town Hall meeting room.