The East Hampton Village board has officially outlawed outdoor dining in residential zones. The Star reports that the move was prompted by c/o the Maidstone's petition for outdoor seating at the hotel's restaurant, the Living Room. The new law affects the Palm and the Hedges Inn as well, but the 1770 House was spared following permission from the zoning board of appeals last year. Most neighbors were pleased with the outcome, after raising concerns that the Living Room's courtyard would be louder that its proposal deemed it would be, but opponents of the law saw the move as economically unreasonable. Reps from the Chamber of Commerce said competing villages al fresco offerings could drive customers away from East Hampton. As for commercial zones (i.e. where most restaurants are), outdoor seating is safe.
· Village Ban Passed on OUtdoor Dining [EH Star]
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