by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
At its June 23, 2026, meeting, the Sanibel Planning Commission unanimously approved variances for docks and boat lifts at two residences.
The first is at 5270 Indian Court. The application was filed by Raychel Thomas on behalf of Gaetta Partners LP, the property owner. The application was seeking to allow the installation of a boat lift with a waterward extension greater than 15 feet waterward of the mangrove roots, and to request a variance in relation to the mean low water level, to allow boat docking or mooring in an area with less than three feet of water above the bottom surface at mean low water level.
The Planning Commission found that a boat dock and lifts at this property cannot be built in compliance with both city and state requirements, necessitating the requested variances, and that the placement of the new dock and two boat lifts within and adjacent to the existing opening in the mangrove shoreline follows best management practices for protecting mangroves and mitigating impacts.
The Planning Department found that the proposed project is consistent with the Sanibel Code and Sanibel Plan and is the minimum necessary to accommodate a boat dock with two boat lifts, as is allowed by the Sanibel Code.
The second is at 2544 Harbour Lane. The application was filed by Raychel Thomas on behalf of Herbert and Rhonda Lord, property owners. The application sought to allow the installation of a boat lift with a waterward extension greater than 15 feet waterward of the mangrove roots, and to request a variance for location from lot lines, to allow installation of a dock and boat lifts less than the required side yard setback.
The Planning Department found that the proposed design is the minimum necessary to accommodate one boat dock with two boat lifts as is allowed by the Sanibel Code, while reducing mangrove impacts and providing navigable access without interfering with neighboring properties. In addition, they found various designs and locations for placement of the dock were conducted by the marine contractor based upon the site-specific natural conditions and circumstances, demonstrating all reasonable steps have been taken to mitigate or eliminate the requested variances and that the placement of the new dock and two boat lifts within and adjacent to the existing opening in the mangrove shoreline follows best management practices for protecting mangroves and mitigating impacts.
Both variance applications received letters of support from neighbors and others, and the City received no communications opposing the variances.
Leave a Comment