Tampa Planning Commission proposes land use reforms for coastal hazard resilience

Hillsborough County's Planning Commission has taken significant steps to enhance community resilience and economic development during its recent public hearing on April 8, 2025. The meeting focused on two key themes: land use policies aimed at mitigating climate change impacts and the preservation of industrial areas.

One of the most impactful decisions made was the proposal to prohibit plan amendments that would increase density in coastal high hazard areas. This measure aims to protect vulnerable regions from the effects of climate change and extreme weather events, which are particularly relevant for Tampa due to its coastal location. The new policy will not only restrict residential density increases but also limit bonuses in these areas. However, development is still permitted, provided it undergoes the necessary rezoning processes.

The Planning Commission emphasized that while the prohibition on density increases is strict, there are still opportunities for development under specific categories, such as commercial uses in designated coastal hazard areas. A new "commercial restricted" land use category was introduced, which allows only commercial activities without density entitlements, ensuring that the focus remains on resilience.

In addition to climate resilience, the meeting addressed the need for industrial preservation. The Planning Commission presented a refined industrial preservation map that identifies key industrial areas that should be protected, particularly near Tampa International Airport and the port activity center. This initiative aims to clarify and enhance the evaluation process for future plan amendments related to industrial uses, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.

The collaborative efforts between the Planning Commission and the City of Tampa were highlighted, with no objections raised during the meeting, indicating strong support for the proposed policies. The Commission is recommending that these measures be forwarded to the Tampa City Council for further consideration.

As Hillsborough County moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on creating a resilient community while balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability. The next steps will involve continued collaboration with city officials and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of these policies.