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Board grants variance for single‑family dwelling at 12172 Bonanza Trail
Summary
The board unanimously granted a critical-area variance that allows construction of a modest single‑family home at 12172 Bonanza Trail despite a 675‑sq‑ft disturbance to steep slopes/expanded buffer; the board relied on mitigation, stormwater controls and required nitrogen‑removal septic.
The Calvert County Board of Appeals voted unanimously on Sept. 5 to approve a critical‑area variance allowing construction of a modest single‑family dwelling (26×36 footprint) at 12172 Bonanza Trail in Chesapeake Ranch Estates.
Jeffrey Toole of COA Barrett LLC explained that state and county requirements for sewage disposal areas and setback distances effectively force building closer to an expanded buffer and steep slopes; to meet stormwater management and treatment the design requires locating a dry well behind the house, which produces an estimated 675 square feet of disturbance to steep slopes/extended buffer. Toole said mitigation plantings will be provided on‑site at a 3:1 ratio and that nitrogen‑reducing septic measures will be required.
Board members noted the critical‑area commission had raised concerns in staff reports, but heard testimony that the proposed impact is small relative to the total critical‑area portion of the lot and will be offset with mitigation and required treatment. After closing the record the board concluded the criteria for granting a variance were met and approved the request without additional conditions.
Planning staff will incorporate mitigation and stormwater measures into the site‑plan and permitting processes.
