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Council grants exception to delivery‑vessel moratorium for 35‑foot charter pontoon
Summary
City council approved a request from Max Fogarty to exempt a 35‑foot party pontoon from a local delivery‑vessel moratorium, subject to code compliance and staff review of parking and other requirements.
The Destin City Council approved a one‑time exception April 7 to the city’s delivery‑vessel moratorium for a 35‑foot party pontoon operated by Max Fogarty.
City staff explained the item had been walked on from the March 17 agenda; the request seeks relief so a vessel that operates as a bareboat charter can continue serving customers while the city’s moratorium remains in effect. Staff reported the applicant told them he had expended “in excess of $50,000” in reliance on prior approvals and that the vessel operates from 530 Harbor Boulevard under a lease with the property owner.
Applicant Max Fogarty spoke to the council and described efforts to comply with local rules. Council members noted the moratorium contains an exception process and emphasized the applicant must still meet all code requirements. The council’s approval was conditioned on full compliance with applicable codes (parking, bathrooms and other requirements) and on staff verification before ongoing operations continue.
The vote to grant the exception carried on the record with all council members voting in favor.
