Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Beach Sand Management topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission OKs conditional sand‑movement permits and reiterates DNR guidance on dune protections
Summary
Facing widespread sand accretion, the commission approved 11 sand‑movement permits conditional on staff meeting contractors on site to set limits and require before‑and‑after photos; staff said DNR guidance allows moving non‑vegetated sand shoreward but cautioned local rules and jurisdictional lines still apply.
Commissioners approved a group of sand‑movement permits after lengthy discussion about shoreline accretion and the limits of local authority versus state jurisdiction. The building department said the DNR had sent guidance indicating some sand movement (sand without dune grass) does not require a state permit, but staff and commissioners emphasized local ordinances and the ordinary high‑water mark determine what the town can authorize.
"The DNR does not consider moving sand from the seawall ... that does not need a permit from the DNR," the building lead told commissioners while describing the DNR letter the department sent to staff and property owners. Commissioners said the town will allow removal and return of uncontaminated sand above the neighbor’s existing grade but will not permit actions that would alter the continuity of the beach profile or remove dune grass.
The commission voted to approve 11 sand permits on the condition that the building commissioner meet each contractor or homeowner on site, instruct them about the permitted work, and ensure contractors upload before‑and‑after photos to the town’s iWORKS system. Commissioners asked staff to prepare a clear, written checklist for contractors and to coordinate logistics for on‑site inspections to avoid inconsistent outcomes along adjacent properties.
Next steps: staff will notify contractors and set on‑site review dates, require photographic documentation, and return if disputes or safety issues arise. The APC continues work on dune and accessory‑structure language; staff noted permit timing and documentation must be submitted at least one week before the next meeting to be considered.
