The Hallandale Beach Planning and Zoning Board on Oct. 16 unanimously recommended an ordinance that would revise the zoning code’s definitions for duplex and multifamily dwellings so the terms apply to units on a property rather than strictly to a single building.

Planning staff said the change increases flexibility for property owners who might build multiple separate structures containing dwelling units — for example, cottage‑style developments — without changing minimum unit size requirements. Christie Dominguez, presenting the amendment, said the proposal treats two units on a single property as a duplex even when they are in separate structures.

Dominguez explained that the amendment does not remove minimum unit‑size requirements. She told the board that in the city’s RD‑12 duplex zoning district, a single‑family dwelling minimum is 1,000 square feet and a duplex has a minimum of 750 square feet per unit. For multifamily (three units or more), staff described a 450‑square‑foot minimum per unit with an average unit size requirement of 750 square feet. “Multifamily, which is 3 units or more, the minimum is 450 square feet with an average unit size of 750,” Dominguez said.

Board members asked whether the change aligns with county definitions and how it would affect folio numbers, subdivision and ownership (rental vs. condominium). Staff said the folio number would not change and that the county treats unit counts similarly; ownership forms such as condominium conversion would still be possible but are regulated separately from the city’s land‑use code. Staff also noted that the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) had been evaluating cottage‑style infill options on properties the CRA is buying, and the amendment would ease development of those concepts when RAM is not available.

After discussion, a board member moved to approve the amendment as presented; a second followed and the motion passed unanimously. The board directed no additional changes and recommended the ordinance to the City Commission for final action.

Votes at a glance: motion to recommend approval as presented — approved unanimously.