Weston Conservation Commission Eyes Daily Fines Against Absentee Orchard Avenue Owner

WESTON — May 13, 2025 — Weston Conservation Commission pursues fines and contractor enforcement in a year-long wetland buffer case at 32 Orchard Avenue. The commission, chaired by Rees Tulloss, voted unanimously Tuesday on several continuances and a certificate of compliance while debating how to handle the Orchard Avenue owner, who has not responded to notices since April 2024 and appears to have vacated the property. Conservation staff said the town's local wetland bylaw allows fines of up to $300 per day per violation, potentially going back to October 2024. Abutter Judy Niche of 17 Blake Road told the commission that Bartlett Tree Experts performed unpermitted clearing on December 23, 2023, and that directed stormwater runoff has since muddied her pond path. Staff said it will contact Bartlett Tree directly, noting that under the Wetlands Protection Act, contractors as well as property owners can be held liable for unpermitted work in buffer zones.