Saint Petersburg City Council Approves Major Changes to Land Development Regulations

The St. Petersburg City Council meeting on July 10, 2025, focused on significant amendments to the city’s land development regulations, particularly concerning zoning and building standards. The proposed ordinance aims to clarify and enhance various aspects of the city's zoning code, impacting neighborhoods across St. Petersburg.

Key changes include adjustments to the Neighborhood Traditional (NT) zoning district, which will now feature refined building envelope regulations, including setbacks and design standards. The amendments also introduce a payment-in-lieu option for sidewalk construction, allowing developers to contribute to a fund for future sidewalk projects instead of building them on-site. This move is expected to streamline development processes while addressing community needs for improved pedestrian infrastructure.

Council members discussed the introduction of new bonuses for developers, such as incentives for preserving existing grand trees and enhancing building designs to better align with the character of historic neighborhoods. Notably, the proposed changes include a reduction in the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) bonus for solar-ready homes, while introducing new bonuses for solar installations and electric vehicle charging capabilities.

Scott Ballier, the deputy zoning official, highlighted the importance of these amendments in response to community feedback regarding the size and bulk of new constructions. The council aims to ensure that new homes are more in scale with existing structures, particularly in historic areas, by implementing stricter height regulations and encouraging architectural diversity.

The council also addressed concerns regarding fencing materials, limiting the types of materials that can be used to construct fences in residential areas. This decision reflects a commitment to maintaining the aesthetic integrity of neighborhoods.

Overall, the proposed ordinance represents a comprehensive effort to modernize St. Petersburg's zoning regulations, balancing development needs with community interests. The council anticipates that these changes will foster sustainable growth while preserving the unique character of the city’s neighborhoods. Further discussions and public hearings are expected as the council moves forward with these amendments.