ZBA denies modification for 22 Shore Road after finding unauthorized dune and driveway work

The East Hampton Zoning Board of Appeals on July 7 denied a requested modification for 22 Shore Road in Amagansett after concluding the property had not complied with prior conditions and had caused significant damage to natural features.

Reading from the board record, the chair detailed findings including removal of "20 truckloads of dune sand," destruction of revegetation, and an enlargement of the driveway to about 2,000 square feet that encroached into the public right of way. "As a result, natural characteristics have been destroyed since they did not follow the revegetation outlined in the decision," the chair said, and concluded, "I will be denying this modification in its entirety."

The chair recited earlier 2016 denial findings that the board had relied on: the application previously would have diminished dunes and beach vegetation and failed NRSP standards. Neighbor Nicholas Gregory had submitted before‑and‑after photos showing changes to the driveway and revegetation; the chair and members cited those images and the board’s site inspection in their deliberations. The chair also noted the board lacks jurisdiction beyond the property line and referred possible right‑of‑way encroachment to code enforcement.

Member Kiley echoed the chair’s concerns, saying the driveway condition created a safety hazard for pedestrians and bicyclists. Member Berger also supported denial, calling the revegetation destruction "totally destroyed." The board denied the requested modification; members stated that, given the failure to follow prior conditions, the modification as presented would not meet the standards for an NRSP.

The denial is final as rendered by the board’s decision that evening; the record reflects the board’s factual findings about site clearing, changes to approved features, and the lack of compliance with the prior revegetation plan.