DNR_2022-02-07-6609HorseshoeCurveVarianceCmtLtr
Ecological and Water Resources
1200 Warner Road
St. Paul, MN 55106
February 7, 2022
MacKenzie Young-Walters
Associate Planner, City of Chanhassen
7700 Market Boulevard
Chanhassen, MN 55317
RE: Variance Request, 6609 Horseshoe Curve, Chanhassen – Lotus Lake
Dear MacKenzie,
I have had a chance to review the variance request for 6609 Horseshoe Curve in Chanhassen. The applicant is
proposing a variance to the setback and dimensional standards for a water-oriented accessory structure (WOAS)
on Lotus Lake. The proposed WOAS would be an 11-ft by 12-ft storage shed set 8-ft back from the OHWL. The
Chanhassen Shoreland Ordinance allows for one WOAS that shall not exceed 10-ft in height and 250 square feet
in area and is setback 10-ft from the OHWL.
We encourage the applicant to work with the city to make their proposal consistent with Chanhassen Shoreland
Ordinance provisions related to WOAS to ensure the impact to the shoreland zone is minimized to the greatest
extent possible. Deviations from the shoreland ordinance, including the setback and dimensional standards
listed above, are only to be allowed where there are rare and unique circumstances. This is essential in order to
protect important shoreland habitat from erosion and water quality impacts, prevent vegetation destruction
and maintain vegetative structure screening, and to minimize runoff from impervious surfaces.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this variance request.
Sincerely,
Taylor Huinker
Area Hydrologist
CC: Dan Petrik, Land Use Specialist
Equal Opportunity Employer