New Regs for Sand Fencing

(12/24/2009)    Sand fencing along East Hampton Town shorelines will have to be installed without the use of metal stakes, according to a new law adopted by the town board last week. The ubiquitous wooden slats held together with wire are unrolled to hold back sand that otherwise could blow off, eroding the beach and dunes.

    When fences become buried by sand, the stakes can become dangerous protrusions on the beach. Besides avoiding that hazardous scenario, the law requires permits and enacts standards for the placement of shoreline fencing. According to the legislation, the fencing “at the present time is often installed in a random and haphazard fashion which is often ineffective and also blocks access to the town’s beaches.”   

    The law will apply to all beaches, including those over which the East Hampton Town Trustees have jurisdiction. Annual permits will cost $60 and will be issued by the Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with the Department of Natural Resources or the trustees.

    The fencing will be allowed only in the off-season and for the purpose of building sand dunes by trapping wind-blown sand, or for protecting dunes or vegetation. The fences will have to be removed from the beach by March 15 each year. Only untreated wood laths or slats no higher than four feet will be allowed, supported by untreated wooden posts at least six feet in length.     J.P.