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Board approves lot‑split variance on West Maritana Drive allowing two single‑family lots
Summary
The board approved a variance that restores two historic platted lots at 3115 West Maritana Drive for single‑family development, contingent on demolition permit and initiation of the lot split within one year.
The City of St. Pete Beach Board of Adjustment approved a variance to allow the property at 3115 West Maritana Drive to be restored to its original platted configuration as Lot 7 and Lot 8 of Block 21, Don Cesar Place, despite both lots’ average widths falling short of the RU‑2 zoning district’s 60‑foot minimum.
Brandon Berry, senior planner, summarized staff findings and said both platted lots meet the RU‑2 minimum lot area (6,000 square feet) but are deficient in average width — roughly 50.33 feet for the north lot and 48.18 feet for the south lot. Berry noted that many lots in the Don Cesar neighborhood are similarly narrow, and that the proposed split would return the parcel to its original 1925 plat configuration.
Attorney Lauren Rubinstein, representing the applicants, said the request simply restores the parcel to the historic plat and would allow single‑family development consistent with neighborhood character. She said the owners had not created the condition by combining lots and that the homes proposed would be consistent with other platted lots in the neighborhood. Owner Andrew Rosencaul confirmed the existing residence sustained substantial storm damage; he said the house is not habitable and that demolition and a lot split would enable resilient rebuilding.
Board members asked about the waterfront strip and potential dock impacts because mangroves extend into the waterway at the site. Berry said the county indicated limited clearing (a narrow walkout) may be possible but that a permanent slip or boat lift may be infeasible without further permits because of mangrove depth and limited waterway width. Rubinstein said the upland riparian interest would remain tied to the residential lots and the applicants expect to coordinate with neighbors if dock placement requires neighboring signoffs.
Staff recommended one condition if the board approved the variance: demolition and initiation of the formal lot split must occur within one year of the board’s approval. The board approved the variance with that condition. A roll call recorded unanimous approval.
Votes at a glance Case 25015 (3115 West Maritana Drive) — Approved with condition that demolition permit and initiation of the lot split occur within one year. Vote: 5–0.
