Southampton Adopts Land Disturbance Legislation
The Town of Southampton passed legislation to prevent over-clearing, save trees, protect our natural resources, and preserve community character.
Increased development pressure continues to threaten our natural resources. Left unchecked, the damage from unregulated clearing on residential and commercial properties will be irreversible and change the character of Southampton forever.
Over-clearing and substantial grade changes destroy wildlife habitat, degrades water quality, increases the threat of erosion, and negatively impacts community character.
To address this, the Town of Southampton proposed a new town code restricting land clearing, excavation, and grading, and certain tree removal within certain-sized properties. Property owners clearing more than 2,000-square-feet on residential lots and commercial lots over a half-acre need a permit.
In May 2026, the town board passed the legislation. Learn more here.
The Town of Southampton is the first on the East End to adopt such legislation. The Group commends the town board for addressing this growing issue, and the measures they have taken to ensure legislation aligns with the town’s sustainable planning and environmental preservation goals.
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