Applicant seeks formal approval to continue long‑standing tree‑service operations in Readfield

The owner-to-be of a long-standing tree‑service business told the Readfield Planning Board he intends simply to continue current operations from a rural garage used for equipment storage and maintenance. He said the facility has been used for decades, traffic is minimal (one employee beyond the owner), and he does not plan expansions.

Board members discussed whether the use had ever been permitted or was grandfathered and noted there is no existing permit in town records; the application seeks to regularize the use under new ownership. Planners said confirming the status now will provide peace of mind for the buyer and the town. The board found the application complete and voted to schedule a public hearing and a site visit, with staff to notify abutters and coordinate logistics.

No substantive changes to the business were proposed at the meeting, and the board emphasized that any future change in operations would require further review.