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Planning board transmits favorable recommendation to clarify side-yard open-space rules in single-family districts
Summary
The board recommended a code amendment to clarify and slightly relax how required side-yard open-space for two‑story elevations in single‑family districts is measured, allowing multiple smaller notches to meet the aggregate requirement and clarifying what elements may count toward the open space.
The Miami Beach Planning Board on Oct. 7 transmitted a favorable recommendation for a City Commission ordinance clarifying side-yard open‑space requirements in single‑family residential districts (RS1–RS4). The revision would let architects meet a required open‑space standard by providing multiple smaller setback "notches" whose combined horizontal area satisfies the regulation rather than forcing a single continuous 8‑foot deep recess along a long side elevation.
Staff said the change is largely clarifying and procedural: it explains how the measurement is made and confirms which features (for example, certain types of water features) are eligible to count toward required open space. The intent is to provide design flexibility while preserving neighbors’ access to light and air. The board voted to transmit the amendment with a favorable recommendation to the City Commission.
