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Board member says proposed revocable hedge permit could impose high costs on Miami Beach homeowners
Summary
During other business, a Miami Beach Zoning Board member warned that a proposed revocable hedge permit could cost homeowners 'close to $5,000' and urged residents to contact elected officials; staff said Public Works is revisiting requirements.
MIAMI BEACH — During the Miami Beach Zoning Board of Adjustment’s March 3 meeting, board member Silvers raised concerns that a proposed revocable hedge permit under consideration by the city could impose substantial costs on homeowners who maintain front-yard landscaping.
Silvers said the permit, as drafted, “could amount to close to $5,000 per taxpayer resident, homeowner on the beach” and urged owners of beachside homes without sidewalks to contact city commissioners and the mayor to seek a simplified, less expensive process. He said roughly 750 homes on the beach lack sidewalks, and that enforcement of the ordinance as written could lead to fines and appeals to city boards.
Silvers told the board he had spoken with Public Works staff and understands the department is revisiting the permit requirements to reduce complexity and cost. He described the expense and administrative burden as “an overwhelming burden on the taxpayers.”
Chair Michael Baluch noted the board’s next meeting date (April 14) and there was no formal action by the board on the revocable hedge permit during this meeting; Silvers’s remarks were made under other business as a public notice to affected homeowners.
Silvers encouraged homeowners to monitor the ordinance’s progress, contact their elected officials and be prepared to appeal Public Works decisions to the Board of Adjustment if enforcement proceeds under the current draft.
