Board approves 12% impervious‑area variance for pool at 8 Blue Heron Loop

The planning board recommended approval of a 12% variance that will allow a new pool and deck at 8 Blue Heron Loop to increase the lot’s impervious area above the PUD’s stated 40% limit. Simone Kenny, a planner, told the board staff had initially issued a permit under a different interpretation of the development agreement but later concluded the PUD’s 40% limit refers to impervious area (roofs plus driveways, walkways and pools) rather than roof coverage alone.

Kenny said the lot (Lot 38, Plantation Reserve Estates) measures about 15,700 square feet and that the existing single‑family dwelling had 38.49% lot coverage and 45.71% impervious area. “With the proposed pool and pool deck, the impervious area will be 54.54%,” she said. She told the board staff had determined the variance meets the county’s standard criteria, noted that many zoning districts allow higher impervious percentages, and concluded the request is the minimum relief needed to alleviate the identified hardship.

Elizabeth Latour, who identified herself as representing 8 Blue Heron, said she had no additional material to add but was available to answer questions. Board members asked whether the higher impervious area created drainage concerns; Kenny replied the county’s drainage analysis differentiates lot coverage from impervious area and that similar districts often allow 60–80% imperviousness, so staff did not identify a drainage problem for this site.

Michael Boyd moved to approve the variance; the motion was seconded and carried. The clerk called the roll and the motion carried with a majority of affirmative votes. The board’s action is a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners where applicable under the county’s review process.