Select Board authorizes violation notice over unregistered vehicles on private property

The Camden Select Board voted June 30 to authorize a violation notice under the town’s general bylaws after police documented multiple possibly unregistered vehicles on private property.

Town staff summarized police documentation dating back to January and a later report in June that a neighbor had observed vehicles behind a barn that appeared unregistered. Staff cited the town’s general bylaws, chapter 8, section 5, saying “there can only be a penalty assessed $5 per day for each day of the violation, but that penalty can only start after 10 days written notice.”

Board members discussed the photographic lists of registrations — some active, some inactive or canceled — and acknowledged the town does not have authority to enter private property without consent. After discussion the board approved a motion authorizing the town administrator (Tom Messer) to send a written violation notice that would start the 10‑day clock and allow the police department to pursue fines if the vehicles remain.

The motion passed by voice vote. The board’s action empowers staff to notify the property owner and begins the administrative enforcement timeline under the bylaw; individual vehicle status (registered/expired) may be clarified by the owner in response to the notice.