Ponte Vedra board backs code amendment to allow small‑lot pools an extra 4% of water area

The Ponte Vedra Zoning & Adjustment Board voted to recommend a code amendment (LDCA2026‑04) that would allow qualifying small lots in Ponte Vedra an additional 4% impervious surface ratio specifically for pool water area. Jacob Smith, presenting the item, said GIS analysis identified 177 lots of 8,000 square feet or smaller and estimated the total maximum additional pool water area across those lots would equal about 56,000 square feet — roughly 1.2 acres.

Staff and board members clarified the change would apply to the pool "water area" only and would not authorize pool decking, coping or other hardscape. County engineering staff reviewed the proposal and did not flag a major drainage concern in the materials presented; board members asked follow‑up liability and fairness questions about how the amendment would affect owners whose prior variances had been denied. The board voted to recommend approval and the amendment will advance to the Board of County Commissioners for hearings.