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Planning commission denies Chesapeake Bay buffer exception for River Bluff pool
Summary
The commission denied CEX2025-00008, an exception to install a pool, spa and gazebo within the 100-foot resource protection area at 5601 River Bluff Drive, finding the disturbance self-imposed and a feasible alternative exists outside the RPA.
The City of Suffolk Planning Commission voted 8-0 July 15 to deny a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area exception request (CEX2025-00008) that would have allowed a pool, spa and gazebo within the 100-foot resource protection area at 5601 River Bluff Drive.
Staff planner Matthew Madaraga explained the 1.65-acre property backs to the Nansemond River and is subject to a 100-foot RPA buffer. The applicant sought permission to place accessory structures within the 50-foot landward portion of that buffer. Madaraga said the lot already contains a deck, detached garage, cabana, concrete patio and play area; staff concluded the proposed encroachment was "self-imposed" and that alternative designs or removal of existing concrete could avoid impacts. Staff recommended denial under section 31-4-15 of the Unified Development Ordinance.
No proponent appeared at the public hearing; the commission discussed staff findings and several commissioners reported site visits. One commissioner noted portions of the existing yard development and an existing fence and boat house; another said the plate and drawings in the packet made interpretation difficult and said the applicant did not attend. After discussion Commissioner [unnamed] moved to deny the exception; the motion carried by roll call vote, 8-0.
The chair asked staff to notify the property owner of the action.
