The Vineyard's overall character is defined largely by its natural environment. Even the casual visitor recognizes the evocative beauty and authenticity of the Island's landscapes and vistas. The word “character” can mean many different things. Here it focuses primarily on scenic values and the visibility of the natural environment, especially from public places. This visual access contributes to the community's appreciation and stewardship of natural areas.

In his landmark 1973 Looking at the Vineyard, sponsored by the Vineyard Open Land Foundation, respected urban designer Kevin Lynch advanced the notion that the Vineyard could accommodate a considerable amount of development without destroying the Island's traditional character, provided this development was kept out of sight.

People's sense of the Vineyard comes largely from what they see as they drive along the Vineyard's roads. Also important is the view from public waters, especially the ponds and ocean. There is concern that development highly visible from the water is undermining the natural character of the Island.

In line with the 2009 Island Plan, the MVC aims to:

• Preserve the appearance of openness and great spaces.
• Foster the maintenance of existing and historic vistas and the creation of new vistas.
• Match land uses to the land's natural and visual qualities.
• Manage change and growth to enhance traditional and natural landscapes.
• Require that development plans fit the scale and quality of the inherited landscape so that generations to come will have views and open vistas to enjoy.

The first two Districts of Critical Planning Concern (DCPCs) created by the MVC in 1975 were the Island Road District and the Coastal District, both of which restrict development in those areas where it would have the greatest visual impact.

The Island Road District protects major roads in all six towns with special regulations including height and setback restrictions, protections for stone walls, and requirements to bury power lines. In addition, regulations for  Special Ways include restrictions on paving and widening. The Island’s tremendous housing growth since 1975 is generally shielded from public view due to the DCPC regulation separating driveway entrances by 1,000 feet.

• Looking at the Vineyard: A copy can be obtained from the Vineyard Open Land Foundation.
• Visual Preference Survey (2005)
• Island Plan (2009)
• MVC Scenic Roads Initiative (2015)

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