Neighbor Support Fuels Variance Request for Classic Car Garage Renovation

In a recent Board of Adjustment meeting held on July 30, 2025, the City of Miami Beach addressed a significant variance request that aims to enhance property conditions while maintaining community standards. The proposal, presented by the property owner, seeks to retain an existing interior side setback of just under three feet for a garage intended to protect classic cars from the elements.

The owner emphasized the importance of the garage for safeguarding his vehicle collection, which has prompted ongoing maintenance efforts, including pressure washing to combat mold on the property’s white canopy. The project plans to set back the garage by 20 feet from the front of the property, thereby improving drainage and increasing green space, which is a notable enhancement for the area.

The variance request includes two key components: maintaining the current setback and allowing for a unit size increase to 60%. The latter is particularly relevant as the main home already exceeds the typical 50% coverage limit. The owner noted that the previous owner had removed many architectural details from the home, which complicates the approval process for the requested variances.

During the meeting, board members inquired about community feedback, and it was confirmed that letters of support from surrounding neighbors were submitted, indicating a favorable reception to the proposed changes. These letters were made available for review, highlighting the community's backing for the project.

As the board deliberated, the focus remained on the implications of the proposed variances for both the property owner and the neighborhood. The outcome of this request could set a precedent for similar projects in the area, balancing individual property rights with community aesthetics and standards. The board's decision will be pivotal in determining how such enhancements can coexist within the established framework of Miami Beach's zoning regulations.