Board to coordinate with environmental advisory board on landscaping and tree‑code revisions

The Melbourne Beach Planning and Zoning Board on Feb. 4, 2025 discussed proposed code revisions covering landscaping, tree protection and plant‑replacement standards. The board agreed it must coordinate with the Environmental Advisory Board (EAB) and designated a member to join the EAB presentation to the town commission.

Staff said the EAB will present its own recommendations; the two boards are expected to present side‑by‑side so the commission can see both approaches. Discussion topics included distinguishing Florida native species from other species, acceptable replacement sizing (for example, girth vs. tree counts), whether to require a certain percentage of Florida‑native plantings for new construction, and enforcement concerns if required plantings are later removed.

Board members cautioned that strict landscaping mandates can be difficult to enforce at the parcel level. Several members requested to review the EAB’s presentation in advance; staff said the EAB meeting would occur the following day and that minutes or a presentation would be circulated. The board agreed that at least one member should attend the EAB meeting to understand their recommendations and to coordinate what will be forwarded to the commission.

Next steps: staff will assemble the packet for the commission hearing and circulate the EAB materials; the board will select and send a spokesperson to present the planning and zoning recommendations alongside the EAB’s presentation to the commission.