A couple faces legal challenges over their plans to allow public access for hiking and walking dogs on their 50-acre property, with local authorities requiring a business license for the activity. The dispute highlights tensions between private land use and public recreation rights, as the property owners argue their intentions are simply to provide a community amenity. Town officials maintain that any organized public access—even informal—could constitute a commercial operation under local regulations. The case raises broader questions about how municipalities regulate land use when private property is opened to public enjoyment.
Charles and Elizabeth Copley have big plans for their 50-acre property, but the town insists they need a business license to let people to hike or walk their dogs.
