Planning board approves use-by-exception for freestanding birthing center on Anastasia Boulevard

The Planning and Zoning Board on Oct. 7 approved a use-by-exception to allow a licensed freestanding birthing center at 906 Anastasia Boulevard.

Applicant Tiffany Martin, a Florida-licensed midwife, described a plan for a regulated, midwifery‑led birth center offering care for low-risk patients, two birthing suites and a separate prenatal office. Martin said the proposed center would share clinical pathways with Flagler Hospital and maternal-fetal-medicine providers for transfers when higher-level care is needed. "Our mission is to provide families in Saint Augustine with a safe, professional, and supportive environment for childbirth," Martin said.

Nut graf: Staff found the CL2 district is an appropriate location for a use-by-exception and recommended the board may approve the request. The record included multiple letters of support from local health-care providers and families; staff reported seven mailed notices and a stack of supportive public comments.

Board members asked about parking, emergency access and how many births the facility expects; Martin said the operation would be low-volume (10–15 births per month), provide prenatal care on-site and that the property has ample parking. Board members cited proximity to Flagler Hospital and the fire station as positive for transfers and emergency access.

Action: The board approved PZB 2025-0065 to permit a freestanding birthing center at 906 Anastasia Boulevard under a use-by-exception in the CL2 zoning district. The motion passed on roll call with unanimous support.

Ending: Staff will process required city licensing and any building code modifications; the applicant said she would comply with state licensing and regulatory requirements for birthing centers and maintain community outreach.