GBPD to enforce automobile storage bylaw
Great Barrington — Chief William Walsh reports that the Great Barrington Police Department has begun its annual campaign to enforce the town’s automobile storage bylaw. The town prohibits the storage of unregistered or dilapidated cars and boats on private property, and officers will be actively enforcing the prohibition. Residents are asked to come into compliance with the bylaw within three weeks, or they will face a $50 penalty each day that they continue to be in violation.
Residents have several options to bring their cars or boats into compliance:
- Properly register the vehicle;
- Screen the vehicle or boat from public view by permanent means, which can include a fence or garage;
- Remove the vehicle or boat; and
- Obtain a nonrenewable permit from the police station for $25. Permits are valid for one vehicle or boat for one year.
Automobiles should be registered through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, while boats should be registered through the Massachusetts Boat and Recreation Vehicle Registration and Titling Bureau.
There are multiple nonprofit organizations that will retrieve cars or boats in exchange for a tax deduction:
- National Kidney Foundation – 1 (800) 488-2277
- Mothers Against Drunk Driving – 1 (800) 720-6233
- American Lung Association – 1 (800) 577-5864 or https://donateyourcar.com
For more information on the bylaw and enforcement efforts, contact Officer Richard Keefner at (413) 528-0306.
