Section 229-210-8 - SCENIC AREASCertain lands are acquired or set aside for scenic enhancement and natural beauty. Such areas include Scenic Byways, scenic strips, overlooks, rest areas, recreation areas, wildlife and waterfowl refuges, historic sites, public parks, and landscaped areas. The Scenic Byways within the State of Maine are currently shown on the Map Viewer that is available on the MaineDOT website.
To protect the aesthetic quality of these areas, new Facility installations are not permitted within scenic areas unless the following criteria are met: [ 23 CFR 645.209 ]
1. The installation does not require extensive removal or alteration of trees or other natural features visible to the Highway user, or impair the aesthetic quality of the lands.2. New aerial installations are permitted only if:A. Other locations or underground construction are not technically feasible, cost prohibitive or less desirable from a visual quality standpoint.B. The design provides adequate attention to the protection and preservation of the visual qualities of the area in location, materials and methods of construction.3. Installations for Highway Purposes - All criteria set forth in subparagraphs 2(A) and 2(B) above shall also apply to Facilities needed solely for Highway purposes, such as continuous lighting or services to a safety area, rest area or recreational area.17-229 C.M.R. ch. 210, § 8