Town officials in Grafton have issued a cease and desist order to the owner of a popular skate ramp, stating that the structure violates zoning regulations. The ramp, located in a barn at 2319 Highway W, is recognized as the tallest vertical skate ramp in the United States, standing at 13.5 feet. It has become a sought-after facility for aspiring professional skateboarders, according to owner Jeremy Trasser.
Known as the Midwest Vert Ramp, this public skating facility has hosted numerous events, including the recent Barn Bash 2024, which featured skateboarding, music, and camping. The event attracted notable figures such as skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and representatives from Thrasher magazine. “It was fantastic,” said Trasser, whose three sons are enthusiastic skateboarders, with one aspiring to go pro.
However, Grafton officials argue that the property is zoned for residential use and does not contain a house. The cease and desist order, dated Wednesday, highlights that several structures on the property—including half-pipe ramps, decks, stairs, and viewing platforms—were built without the necessary building or zoning permits.
Furthermore, these improvements have not been inspected or approved for any type of use.
The town’s order also states that Trasser is operating a commercial venture without the required permits. Hosting skateboarding contests and events that involve cash prizes and the sale of food and alcohol has been deemed a public nuisance. The order warns that selling or distributing alcohol without a license could lead to criminal and civil penalties.
Trasser has been given 30 days to remove the unpermitted decks. The cease and desist order specifies that for safety reasons, neither he nor his family can use or occupy the barn or its associated structures until they comply with all relevant codes and ordinances. Failure to adhere to this order could result in prosecution for municipal code violations and further legal action by the town.
Town Chairman Lester Bartel expressed willingness to discuss potential options but emphasized that current town codes do not accommodate such operations. “You have to apply the ordinances equally,” he stated.
In response to the order, Trasser is exploring various options to meet the town’s requirements. He aims to secure the necessary permits so his children can skate at home, although he does not intend to open the ramp to the public. He noted significant support on social media from fans of the ramp.
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