by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
The Planning Commission at its July 22, 2025, meeting unanimously approved a variance request to allow the construction of a dock for non-motorized vessel and observational use only. The request was submitted on behalf of Grace Amplatz, the property owner at 5809 Sanibel Captiva Road.
The project abuts Clam Bayou, a natural body of water. This is a large-lot single-family residential area; many of the houses located on Clam Bayou have docks. The water depths within Clam Bayou vary. Some shoreline areas have less than three feet of water depth at mean low tide.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection permit requires the waterward-most portion of the dock to be 20 feet from the shoreline. This will place the dock at a water depth of approximately two feet at mean low water level.
“This is a great project,” said Vice Chair Commissioner Erika Steiner. “It’s quite a process to get something through.”
Commissioner Kate Sergeant said the conditions really protect the environment. “I’m glad the property owners are getting to do this,” she added.
“It’s critical for us that this is for a non-motorized dock,” said Commissioner Lyman Welch. “I think it’s great. I support this. Kayaking is a good use.”
The approval is subject to seven conditions, to which the applicant has agreed:
1. The dock is limited to non-motorized vessels and observational uses.
2. The terminal platform of the dock is limited to a maximum 160 square feet.
3. A plan revision must be submitted to have the waterward extent of the dock platform located 20 feet from the shoreline to be consistent with the Federal Department of Environmental Protection permit.
4. Impacts to mangroves and other native plants shall be in accordance with an approved impact list and mitigation plan. A final mitigation plan shall be submitted as a final document for review and approval by City staff prior to plant installation.
5. If unanticipated/unauthorized impacts occur as a result of the project, additional mitigation may be assessed during the final inspection.
6. Mangrove mitigation plantings must be installed on-site and are subject to an 80 percent survival success criteria for five years following the date of initial planting.
7. Any future trimming to maintain dock access or views of the water requires a separate annual mangrove trimming permit, and permit conditions must be strictly adhered to.
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