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VMRC delays decision on crab-shedding trays at private pier pending commercial/residential clarification
Summary
The commission postponed a request by Larry Shores to retain seven crab-shedding trays on a private pier to the August meeting so the applicant can clarify whether the use will be residential only or commercial; staff recommended removal or conversion to commercial pier because the owner holds a commercial crab shedding license.
The Virginia Marine Resources Commission postponed action July 22 on a request by a property owner, Larry Shores, to retain seven crab-shedding trays attached to a private pier. Staff said Shores holds a commercial crab shedding tank license even though he does not sell the animals; because the license exists, staff recommended either removal of the trays or conversion of the pier to commercial use and proposed a triple permit fee and a calculated civil charge.
During discussion commissioners noted adjacent property owners submitted letters indicating support for "residential only" use, but staff said those letters did not explicitly address potential commercial conversion and that adjacent owners had been notified of the change in the request. Commissioner concerns centered on whether a private pier with shedding trays is permissible when the owner holds a commercial license; staff recalled a 1990s case where the commission ordered removal of shedding trays from a private pier.
Associate Member Erskine moved to postpone the item to the August meeting for the applicant to clarify whether the pier use would be residential or commercial; Associate Member Branson seconded. The motion carried 8-0.
The commission directed staff to re-notify adjacent property owners and ensure the item is advertised properly for August. No vote on permits, fees or penalties was taken; staff said the applicant may either remove the trays or pursue conversion to a commercial pier in the interim.
The record shows staff proposed a triple permit fee ($300 noted in staff discussion) and an assessed crew-cent roll of $4,952 for a 2,476 square-foot area if converted to commercial treatment. Commissioners asked staff to return with clearer documentation and the applicant's clarified intention before the August meeting.
