The Port Orange City Commission approved changes to the city’s land development code that revise standards for residential docks, boathouses and commercial marinas.

Planning staff said the amendments update rules that have not been substantially revised in decades. Penelope Cruz explained the key changes: terminal dock platform area for residential docks is increased from 160 square feet to 500 square feet; the prior 8-foot width limit for terminal platforms is removed to reflect contemporary boat sizes and dock use; and maximum boathouse height is increased from 12 feet above mean high water to 18 feet to accommodate larger vessels and lifts.

The code changes incorporate Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) norms for lots with less than 65 feet of shoreline — requiring centered docks and allowing shared docks between adjacent property owners by waiver — to reflect standards staff has applied informally for roughly two decades.

On commercial marinas, staff proposed raising the historically narrow finger-pier width from 3 feet to 4 feet. Council amended that proposal during the meeting to set a minimum of 4 feet and a maximum of 6 feet for marina finger piers; the council approved the amended standard unanimously.

Planning staff said the updates reflect modern construction materials, larger recreational boats and accessibility considerations. The proposed LDC changes do not change the total allowable square footage for residential docks beyond the new 500-square-foot cap for terminal platforms; any project-specific deviations would continue to require the standard local waiver or variance processes.

The amended ordinance received unanimous council support on the votes recorded at first reading and during the subsequent roll call after an amendment to set the 4–6 foot marina piers. The city clerk recorded a 4–0 vote approving the amendment and the ordinance at first reading.

City staff said the changes bring Port Orange into closer alignment with neighboring local governments and state guidance and are intended to improve safety, ADA accommodation at public marinas and functionality for private dock owners.