Beach Haven board approves updated zoning definitions, adds retaining-wall definition

The Beach Haven Land Use Board voted 8–1 on March 3 to approve updated zoning definitions in ordinance 2025-2c and forward the draft to the governing body for further action.

The change package removes a floor-area-ratio reference in the accessory-structure section and adds a definition for “retaining wall.” Frank, identified by his first name in the meeting, described the edits: “We had to take out the floor area ratio reference in the accessory structure and we didn't have a definition for a retaining wall,” he said. The board recorded its approval after a brief discussion about whether retaining walls should count toward “lot coverage” or be referenced as part of “impervious coverage.”

Why it matters: the board said the definition is intended to prevent structures being built in ways the board did not intend, including installations that could cause flooding onto neighboring properties. One board member urged using the term “impervious coverage” rather than “lot coverage” to clarify how a retaining wall’s top width should be calculated.

Board discussion and vote: Frank told the board the updated definitions are “not inconsistent with the goals and objectives of the master plan.” After discussion, a motion to approve the definitions and forward ordinance 2025-2c passed. The clerk called the roll; the recorded vote was eight in favor, one opposed (Mister Wenger).

Other business: the board carried application 202501 (Renard block 175, lot 12) to the April 7 meeting after the applicant waived any action date and will not need re-noticing. The meeting opened for public comment but no substantive testimony was received. The board adjourned shortly afterward.

The board is expected to send the ordinance to the governing body for its next procedural step; no adoption by the governing body was recorded at this meeting.