Seaplane Hearing August 28

Seaplanes at Commodore Marina  |  photo and post by Larry Clinton

On Monday afternoon, August 28, the Marin County Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to discuss the future of Seaplane Adventures at Commodore Marina. Specifically, the Commission will consider making a recommendation to the Marin County Board of Supervisors regarding a revocation or modification to Seaplane Adventures’ Use Permit.

This hearing was triggered by circumstances that have changed since the Use Permit was originally issued, including complaints about noise generated by the aircraft. Planning Division staff has identified four general alternatives for the Commission to consider:

  1. Revoke the Use Permit for Seaplane Adventures and pass an ordinance phasing out the use of Richardson Bay for any seaplanes. A Countywide Plan amendment would be necessary to implement this alternative.
  2. Revoke the Use Permit for Seaplane Adventures. A Countywide Plan amendment would be necessary to implement this alternative.
  3. Modify the Use Permit for Seaplane Adventures.
  4. Maintain the status quo.

The hearing will be held in the Marin County Hearing Chambers (Rooms 328/330, Administration Building), Civic Center, San Rafael, where individuals may appear and be heard. This discussion is scheduled to begin at 1:05 PM, and speakers will be limited to three minutes each.

For more information about the Planning Commission hearing, visit the Commission hearings webpage.


Recent Marin IJ coverage provides background, and a few POVs—pro and con:
Mill Valley: Seaplane Adventures comes under scrutiny


STAFF REPORT TO THE MARIN COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION—COMMODORE CENTER SEAPLANE BASE (SEAPLANE ADVENTURES)—USE PERMIT REVIEW