Which activity is NOT listed as requiring a Shoreland Impact Permit?

• A. Planting trees along the shore
• B. Excavation
• C. Adding fill
• D. Constructing new structures

Answer: (A)

Shoreland permits focus on activities that could affect water quality and shoreline stability. Excavation, adding fill, and constructing new structures all modify the land near the water in ways that can increase erosion, sediment in the water, or alter drainage, so they are activities that typically require a Shoreland Impact Permit. Planting trees along the shore, by contrast, adds vegetation that helps stabilize the bank and reduce runoff without changing the grade or introducing new structures. Because of that stabilizing effect and lack of major land alteration, planting trees along the shore is not listed as requiring a Shoreland Impact Permit. (Note: if planting involves removing existing vegetation or significant grading, other approvals might apply, but standard tree planting is generally exempt.)