Old Towns, New Lines: Kittery and York Settle Their Land Dispute

Kittery and York, the oldest towns in Maine, have settled a border dispute that began in the 1600s.

The Dispute Reemerges

The issue resurfaced a few years ago when a developer purchased land near Route 1, where the two towns meet. York believed the border was a straight line, while Kittery argued it curved toward the coast.

Legal Battles and Surveys

In 2022, York sued Kittery to redraw the border, but a judge dismissed the case. After a survey in 2024, both towns agreed on a new boundary, which the Maine Legislature will approve in 2026.

The New Boundary

The new border is mostly unchanged, but Kittery gains an additional 4 acres of wooded land. York’s Town Manager, Peter Thompson, and Kittery’s Town Council Chair, Judy Spiller, are pleased with the resolution.

The Origins of the Dispute

The conflict began in 2020 when a survey revealed the actual border was 333 feet south of where both towns believed it to be. York pushed for a straight-line border set in 1652, while Kittery argued that altering the border would be costly and complex.

Minimal Impact on Residents

Although the border change won’t affect property ownership, concerns arose over taxes and school districts. However, the final agreement has a minimal impact—taxes for affected property owners will increase by only a dollar or two.

A Peaceful Resolution

Both towns are relieved to put the dispute behind them. Thompson praised Kittery for their cooperation, and Spiller was glad the towns could resolve the issue amicably. After centuries of disagreement, the neighbors have finally made peace.