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Board will treat multi‑user piers on a case‑by‑case basis, likely aligning with VMRC practice
Summary
Members discussed whether multi‑user (joint‑use) piers should be automatically exempt or require a hearing; the board agreed to proceed case‑by‑case with an eye toward aligning with Virginia Marine Resources Commission guidance that often treats joint‑use piers as requiring permits.
Board members debated how to treat multi‑user (joint‑use) piers going forward and whether the county should adopt a prescriptive rule. One member said it makes sense to be consistent with VMRC practice. "Well, to be consistent with VMRC, they consider joint use piers something they have to permit," a board member said, and staff confirmed that counties vary but that VMRC often expects permitting of joint‑use structures.
After discussion the board agreed to continue handling multi‑user pier requests on a case‑by‑case basis and to seek guidance from VMRC staff when appropriate. The approach is intended to preserve flexibility while aligning with state expectations for living shorelines and the permitability of structures that affect public resources. Staff will bring future multi‑user applications forward with a recommendation based on VMRC precedent and the particulars of each site.
