Planning commission approves Shelter Cove variance and coastal permits for Daniels residence

The Humboldt County Planning Commission voted to approve a coastal development permit, two special permits and a variance Tuesday that will allow construction of a two‑story residence on a small bluff lot in Shelter Cove.

The commission granted the permits after a staff presentation that described engineering and environmental work completed by the applicant. "The project is primarily a coastal development permit for the construction of a 1,100 square foot residence," said Colin Slavy, an associate planner with the Humboldt County Planning Department. Slavy said the project also includes a special permit for major vegetation removal, Shelter Cove design review and a variance to reduce the front yard setback from 20 feet to 6 feet 3 inches to enlarge the buildable area.

Why it matters: The site sits on a 0.14‑acre parcel on a bluff that is exposed to wave run up and sea‑level rise; staff and outside reviewers raised questions about future erosion and wave heights. The commission’s approval requires engineering protections for the foundation, a…