When to Consult the Commission

You should consult the Conservation Commission in the following situations:

  • Before there are any changes to the CSX line (which runs over a perennial stream)
  • Before there are any changes to the highways, public roadways, private drives
  • Before there are any changes to utility lines
  • Before you build a commercial or industrial building
  • Before you build a house
  • Before you buy a commercial or industrial building
  • Before you buy a house
  • Before you change the footprint of an existing commercial or industrial building
  • Before you have a pool installed
  • Before you make changes at the airport that involves runway relocation, vegetation removal, and/or changes to the existing buildings
  • If you are within 100 feet of a wetland of any size, stream, creek, ditch or vernal pool or 200 feet of any river
  • If you are within the 100 foot flood zone, or just want to make sure you’re not (when in doubt, our Conservation Agent will be happy to consult with you and help answer your questions)
  • When you plan to alter a stream or stream bed
  • When you plan to cut a bush or tree, plant a bush or tree or change the vegetation surrounding your home in any way
  • When you plan to do any landscaping, dig a hole, or fill a hole
  • When you plan to do anything about that nasty puddle of water in your yard
  • When you plan to install a new driveway
  • When you plan to install or repair a septic system
  • When you plan to move a wall or install one
  • When you plan to pave what is now a gravel driveway
  • When you plan to put an addition on your house
  • When you plan to put in a foundation
  • When you plan to put in a shed, barn, workshop, etc.
  • When you plan to use Conservation Land for any event
  • When you would like to organize a “friends of” group to help in the maintenance or preservation of Conservation Land
  • When you’re wondering what DEP followed by a lot of numbers on a sign means
  • When you’re wondering what that “Environmentally Sensitive - No Disturb Area” sign means

Rule Book

View the rule book (PDF) to learn when you should consult the commission.