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Commission adopts notification approach after abutter removed wetland flags; applicants to notify neighbors and obtain consent when needed
Summary
After an abutter removed wetland flags placed on her property, the commission agreed applicants should notify immediate neighbors and obtain permission before delineation work on abutter land; the commission signed a letter to the affected abutter.
The Lakeville Conservation Commission addressed a dispute in which an abutter, Donna Catano, removed wetland flags that had been placed on her property as part of a delineation for a nearby filing.
Commissioners read a letter from Catano stating she did not receive prior notice of access and asked that the commission require permission before anyone enters her land. The commission discussed past incidents and noted that, while an applicant’s filing allows the commission to view the filing property, it does not grant permission to enter third‑party parcels.
Members agreed applicants should be required to notify immediate abutters when flagging or delineation work must occur on neighboring property and should obtain written permission when access to an abutter’s parcel is required. The commission voted to sign a letter to Catano documenting the commission’s position and to instruct staff to encourage filers to secure permission and provide advance notice (typically 24–48 hours) before any on‑site work on abutter properties.
Commissioners said the requirement will be relayed to future filers so that wetland scientists do not enter private property without consent and to reduce later conflicts.
