Board OKs private indoor boat storage on Pinpoint Road with conditions

The Deep Creek Watershed Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved Special Exception SE-515 on May 15, 2025, permitting a private indoor boat storage building for applicant James Hamill at 396 Pinpoint Road in the Ag Resource zone.

John Bell appeared for Hamill and described the proposed structure as a simple two-bay pole building with a gravel floor and no electric or plumbing, intended for the applicant’s personal boat storage. "It's, just for mister Hamill's personal use," Bell said. He emphasized the building would be sited well back from the road, largely screened by existing trees, and that the driveway already exists.

Board members asked whether the use should be classified as accessory or principal; Bell said there would be no living area and no second floor. The record includes differing statements about dimensions (a 30-by-52 footprint was discussed, and one board member later asked if it was 30-by-30), which the board did not resolve on the spot but confirmed the building would not be highly visible from the road.

During the discussion members expressed broader concerns about ordinance language that allows storage structures in certain circumstances before a primary dwelling—but they concluded the proposed structure was consistent with existing nearby buildings. The board moved, seconded, and voted unanimously to approve SE-515; members also recorded conditions on the approval: no water, no electric, and no dwelling/living space in the building, and that any additional building would require a separate application.

The board’s decision may be appealed to the Circuit Court of Garrett County within 30 days. Any required permits or agency approvals remain prerequisites to construction.