Council approves cut-and-fill variance for pool, council hears drainage review details

Bulverde — The City Council approved a variance permitting the construction of a large retaining wall and associated pool decking at 671 Butler Oaks after the Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval and staff outlined drainage safeguards.

Planning staff described the variance as related to a retaining wall approximately 9 feet tall that would serve as the back wall for the proposed pool. Staff said the applicant seeks a pool-deck elevation slightly lower than the home's finished floor and that the retaining wall is necessary for pool stability.

Staff reminded council that the city earlier revised its drainage ordinance to require cumulative impervious-cover calculations for additions and new work. "We now make you calculate everything done plus what you're doing," staff said, explaining that cumulative coverage and, if needed, retention structures are required to manage runoff.

Council discussed neighbor impact and topography; staff said aerials show no floodplain or riparian buffer at the site and that standard drainage review would require corrective structures if retention or flow issues are identified. After discussion, a motion to approve the variance was made and approved.

Why it matters: The variance allows construction that would otherwise conflict with local cut-and-fill rules, but staff said drainage-review requirements and permit conditions will aim to limit downstream impacts.