The City of Fort Lauderdale held a Mixed Use Zoning Community Meeting on October 1, 2025, to discuss proposed changes to zoning regulations aimed at enhancing compatibility between residential and commercial developments. The meeting focused on various building typologies and their implications for neighborhood integration.

Key discussions centered around the current zoning code, which mandates specific setbacks and height restrictions for buildings adjacent to residential areas. For instance, properties zoned RMM 25 must maintain a 25-foot rear setback, while the proposed changes would increase this requirement to 30 feet for mixed-use developments. Additionally, the height of buildings near residential zones would be limited to 35 feet to ensure compatibility with existing structures.

The proposed regulations also include adjustments to buffer wall heights, increasing them from 6 feet to 8 feet, and expanding setback distances to create more open space. These changes aim to address concerns about the impact of new developments on nearby residential neighborhoods, particularly in areas with single-family homes.

Participants discussed the potential for mid-rise buildings, typically around 5 to 8 stories, which are becoming more common due to construction costs. The meeting highlighted the importance of balancing development needs with community concerns, particularly regarding affordable housing. The regulations stipulate that affordable housing units must cater to households earning up to 120% of the area median income, which can lead to higher rental prices.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to fostering development that respects the character of existing neighborhoods while accommodating growth. The proposed zoning changes will be further analyzed and refined before being presented for approval, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to engage the community in the planning process.