Applicant withdraws scenic-road petition at 532 South Street after board seeks stamped survey

A homeowner seeking permission to remove segments of a stone wall along South Street withdrew a scenic-road petition after the Carlisle Conservation Commission concluded the record lacks a precise, stamped survey to determine whether the stone-wall 'tails' lie in the town right-of-way or on private property.

During the continued public hearing the board examined plan drawings and photos and discussed whether the plan’s rock-symbol delineation represented the actual wall centerline. One member explained the standard practice: if the portion of the wall is on private property, the owner may remove it; if it occupies the right-of-way the commission retains jurisdiction and may restrict removal or require relocation. The board repeatedly told the applicant that a limited, stamped survey of the relevant section would resolve jurisdictional questions.

The applicant said the project began as a simple landscaping effort but added that asking a professional to provide a stamped survey, stake the line and produce new drawings would push costs into “five figures,” a burden he had not intended. He told the board he would rather withdraw than spend large sums on a small stone wall.

After discussing options (continuing with a limited survey, continuing the hearing to avoid re-advertising, or withdrawal), the applicant elected to withdraw the petition without prejudice; the commission moved and seconded acceptance of the withdrawal and recorded a roll-call vote.

Commissioners advised that if the applicant returns with a stamped survey showing portions of wall entirely on private property, the board could permit those segments to be removed and would expect the two 'tails' that clearly lie in the right-of-way to remain unless properly relocated with further review.

The commission closed that matter and instructed staff about file handling for a withdrawal without prejudice.