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Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels Final Report
For the purpose of accepting the Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels' final report.
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City Council of the
City of Annapolis
Resolution 46-25
Introduced by: Alderman Arnett
Co-sponsored by:
A RESOLUTION concerning:
Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels Final Report
FOR the purpose of accepting the Task Force to Study Commercial Residential Marine Vessels' final report.
WHEREAS, The City of Annapolis is a historic maritime community with limited harbor space and competing demands for waterfront access; and
WHEREAS, There has been an increase in commercial residential marine vessels operating in Annapolis waters, including liveaboard vessels, charter boats with sleeping accommodations, and floating accommodations serving as short-term rentals; and
WHEREAS, Questions have arisen regarding the appropriate regulation of these vessels to balance economic opportunity, public safety, environmental protection, and the character of the City’s harbor and waterfront; and
WHEREAS, On January 13, 2024, the City Council, by Resolution 46-24, established a Task Force on Commercial Residential Marine Vessels to study the types of vessels operating in City waters, assess their impacts, and recommend appropriate policies; and
WHEREAS, The Task Force consisted of local marina operators, members of the general maritime industry, business-community representatives, environmental organizations, commercial and recreational boaters, the liveaboard community, and residential stakeholders;
WHEREAS, The task force was supported in its efforts by representatives from the Harbor Master’s office, the Department of Planning and Zoning, as well as the expertise of the Port Wardens Board and Maritime Advisory Board; and
WHEREAS, The need for this study arose from concerns including:
• Safety and Navigation -- The potential for overcrowding in the harbor and impacts on safe navigation and emergency vessel access;
• Environmental Protection -- Questions about waste disposal, water quality impacts, and compliance with environmental regulations by commercial residential vessels;
• Regulatory Clarity -- Ambiguity in existing City ordinances regarding the distinctions between recreational vessels, liveaboards, and commercial operations offering sleeping accommodations;
• Economic Considerations -- The need to support maritime commerce and tourism while protecting the quality of life for residents and the character of the historic harbor;
• Jurisdictional Complexity -- Overlapping federal, state, and local regulations governing vessel operations, moorings, and commercial activities;
• Community Impact -- Concerns raised by residents and marina operators about noise, traffic, parking, and the conversion of traditional marina slips to commercial hospitality uses; and
WHEREAS, The Task Force reviewed regulations from comparable maritime communities, consulted with state and federal agencies, along with City staff, analyzed data on current vessel operations in Annapolis waters, and received public comments;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that:
1. The Task Force Report on Commercial Residential Marine Vessels, an attachment to this resolution, is hereby officially received; and
2. The City Clerk shall provide a copy of this resolution and the Task Force Report to the next City Council, the Harbor Master, the Director of Planning and Zoning, the City Attorney, and the Director of Transportation for appropriate action.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that the Council expresses its sincere gratitude to the task force members for their thorough research and hard work in creating this essential report, all performed under a tight deadline. Their dedication and careful preparation have been recognized, highlighting the commitment and expertise they contributed to this vital project.
AND BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED BY THE ANNAPOLIS CITY COUNCIL that this resolution shall take effect upon adoption.