Maybe Just Call Them Solar-Powered Dryers?

They’re getting hung out to dry in Southampton, N.Y. Folks there who put clotheslines up in their frontyards now face fines of as much as $1,000--even possible jail time.

A zoning code amendment was passed Tuesday, drawing praise from those who believe that nighties and knickers should be kept out of sight, and grumbles from those who say line-drying should be encouraged because it’s more environmentally friendly than electric dryers.

Lindy Michaud said the rule is meant to please wealthy summer residents. For full-time residents like herself, it doesn’t make any sense, she says. “What do they care how I dry my laundry? When they buy me a dryer and pay my electric bill, I’ll take my clothes off the line.”