Yarmouth adopts Parker's River Landing event policy and unveils fee schedule

The Select Board on April 7 adopted a Parker's River Landing Event Space Policy and a template license agreement intended to govern use of the newly completed park and boardwalk. Community Development Director Megan Eldridge told the board the policy references the parcel’s acquisition (Article 97) and sets limits designed to balance destination events with neighborhood peace.

Key policy elements include a municipal‑event definition, a maximum of three consecutive event days (excluding setup/breakdown), and restrictions on amplified music: entertainment hours capped at 10 a.m.–11 p.m., with no more than two events per month extending beyond 8 p.m. and at least 14 days between such evening events. Staff proposed an initial site‑review application and a multi‑departmental sign‑off process to identify traffic, sound‑mitigation, sanitation, and safety requirements.

Eldridge also presented a one‑year fee structure to trial event management revenue: nonrefundable application fees of $50 (nonprofit) and $100 (for‑profit); in‑season license fees of $900/day (nonprofit) and $1,800/day (for‑profit); off‑season reduced fees; a $100 reservation deposit and a $250 security deposit. The board voted to advertise the fee schedule for the public comment period required before final adoption.

Board members and staff discussed a potential RFP to contract a seasonal event manager in future years, how revenues could help offset DPW maintenance costs (Jeff Colby estimated Parker’s River Landing maintenance at roughly $75,000–$80,000 annually when fully operational), and the need for flexibility as the program develops.