VMRC approves 2.7-foot boathouse extension at Dandy Haven Lane after protests, leaves pilings under review

VMRC approves 2.7-foot boathouse extension at Dandy Haven Lane after protests, leaves pilings under review

The Virginia Marine Resources Commission on May 27 approved a permit allowing a private boathouse to be reframed so its roof will extend 2.7 feet farther over waters off 119 Dandy Haven Lane in York County, after a staff recommendation that the work be allowed as a reasonable use of state-owned submerged lands.

The action matters because the project was the subject of a contested hearing: staff found the structure had existed since 2002, the homeowner and contractor carried out unauthorized work earlier this year, civil charges were assessed and paid, and neighbors protested that the rebuilt structure would intrude on their riparian access. Commissioners debated enforcement precedent and whether pilings left in place during review should remain.

Chief Randy Owen of VMRC told the commission the applicant previously began unauthorized repairs and set eight pilings without permits; at the February hearing the…