Yarmouth grants seasonal permit for backyard lobster sales, limits hours and signs

The Yarmouth Board of Appeals on May 14 granted a special permit to longtime resident John Frederick Tally to sell live lobsters from his home at 23 Iraquoy Boulevard, approving the request 4–1 after discussion about traffic, signage and whether the use should be tied to the person rather than the property.

Attorney Jonathan Paloney told the board that retail sales of live lobsters have occurred at the property for decades and that neighbors had submitted letters of support. Several residents, including Tracy Bur and Joe Glenn, urged the board to preserve the use as part of Cape Cod’s fishing tradition.

Members examined the petition’s history — violations for off‑premises signage that led to prior enforcement and a land‑court action, followed by Town Meeting changes to zoning that now allow live‑lobster sales via special permit. The board debated allowable hours and signage: members agreed to limit operations seasonally from Memorial Day through the end of October, allow on‑site A‑frame signage only (size limited per bylaw), and to make the permit personal to Tally so the right lapses if he discontinues use or sells the property. The board also discussed reasonable hours and agreed on a capped daily window to reduce neighborhood impacts.

One member, Anthony, voted against the permit citing concerns that the activity would introduce commercial traffic into a residential area. Chair Sean Igo reviewed next steps: the decision will be filed with the town clerk and, after the 20‑day technical appeal period, the petitioner will record the decision at the registry of deeds and pursue any required building or sign permits.