Board of Appeals || 09/16/2026

The QACTV Board of Appeals convened on September 16, 2026, to hear case BOA 26070246 concerning a variance request for property located at 176 Herb Lane, Queenstown, Maryland. The applicant sought approval to replace a pool, pool patio, decking, landing stairs, retaining walls, and a gravel driveway within the 100-foot critical area buffer. The board reviewed detailed site constraints, environmental considerations, and compliance with local critical area regulations. Testimony highlighted that the proposed pool relocation would reduce lot coverage within the buffer, improve stormwater management, and enhance safety and usability, particularly for aging in place and supervising children. The board found that the variance met all criteria, including demonstrating unwarranted hardship peculiar to the property, minimum deviation from regulations, and harmony with the county's critical area program. The variance was approved by motion, with conditions including a 30-day hold on the building permit following the decision. Additionally, a separate variance for a covered deck and stairs within the buffer was also approved under similar conditions.