Select Board adopts Class 6 roads policy and waiver for property owners

The New Ipswich Select Board voted to adopt a Class 6 roads policy that clarifies ownership and maintenance responsibilities and attaches a waiver of liability for property owners performing permitted maintenance.

Under the policy the town reaffirmed that Class 6 highways are public rights of way that the town does not generally maintain; routine maintenance activities such as snow removal, sanding, filling and grading are permitted for property owners but require prior written approval from the board if they alter the road’s public character. The board removed a phrase in the draft calling Class 6 roads “generally considered discontinued” after members said that characterization could confuse residents.

Board materials included a two‑page waiver that sets out permitted maintenance and requires applicants to demonstrate they have any state or federal permits necessary for larger work such as ditching or paving. Members said the policy and attached waiver create a clear packet that can be handed to applicants who seek to build on or maintain Class 6 roads.

After editing the draft to clarify maintenance permissions and delete the problematic language, a motion to accept the policy as amended carried by voice vote. The board signed the ordinance and directed staff to post and file the approved documents.

The new policy aims to protect the town’s public rights of way while allowing limited, approved work by property owners and providing the town with a clear process for approvals and liability waivers.

The board said the waiver will be attached to the posted ordinance and that the matter is effective immediately upon filing.