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Extension of Temporary Waiver on Specific Citations for Waterfront Activities in R4 Districts
For the purpose of extending the temporary citation waiver, allowing boat rentals, charters, and charter services to operate on the waterfront in R4 (residential) zoning districts through December 1, 2025, without the risk of citations, while the Annapolis City Council reviews O-9-25, which proposes changes to R4 zoning regulations.
City Council of the
City of Annapolis
Resolution 31-25
Introduced by: Alderman Arnett
Co-sponsored by:
Referred to: Finance Committee
A RESOLUTION concerning
Extension of Temporary Waiver on Specific Citations for Waterfront Activities in R4 Districts
FOR the purpose of extending the temporary citation waiver, allowing boat rentals, charters, and charter services to operate on the waterfront in R4 (residential) zoning districts through December 1, 2025, without the risk of citations, while the Annapolis City Council reviews O-9-25, which proposes changes to R4 zoning regulations.
WHEREAS, The City Council recognizes the importance of maintaining and enhancing access to the waterfront for both commercial and recreational activities throughout the City. However, current zoning restrictions confine many valuable maritime uses to designated Maritime Zoning Districts; and
WHEREAS, There is an increasing demand for a broader variety of maritime activities in waterfront areas, including those designated for residential use, and it is essential to carefully consider and implement appropriate regulations to ensure that maritime activities are compatible with residential uses and to minimize any potential negative impacts; and
WHEREAS, On April 14, 2025, the Annapolis City Council introduced Ordinance 9-25 to modify zoning regulations, allowing boat rentals, charters, and charter services along the waterfront in R4 residential districts. However, this ordinance requires thorough review by the Planning Commission and City Council committees to address the unique needs of residential waterfront areas properly; and
WHEREAS, While reviews of O-9-25 are ongoing, specific regulations in the City of Annapolis may unintentionally create situations where companies could technically violate City Code, leading to the issuance of citations; and
WHEREAS, To support waterfront activities throughout the City, intending to prevent unnecessary burdens that may hinder their operation while O-9-25 is under consideration, the City Council adopted R-25-25, which waived specific citations through August 31, 2025;
WHEREAS, Council work on O-9-25 is taking longer than expected, and this Resolution aims to extend the existing waiver until the end of the Council's term, when O-9-25 will lapse, sine die, unless it is adopted earlier;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that:
1. Relevant code enforcement departments are hereby directed to refrain from issuing citations in R4 zoning districts regarding boat rentals, charters, and charter services for violations of the following portions of the City Code:
a. Chapter 21.12, Use and Occupancy Permits;
b. Chapter 21.40, Residential Districts;
c. Chapter 21.48, Use Tables; and
d. Chapter 21.66, Parking and Loading Regulations.
2. This waiver shall apply only to violations directly related to the ordinary and necessary operation of boat rentals, charters, and charter services and shall not extend to violations of laws related to safety or other serious offenses.
AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that this resolution shall take effect upon passage and end on December 1, 2025, or upon adoption of O-9-25, whichever comes first.