ZBA approves ADU waiver for narrow lot in West Palm Beach, 5-0

The Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 4 unanimously approved a Class B special use permit and a waiver for a narrow lot to permit construction of a 798-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at the property recorded in the hearing as "11 29th Street." The board approved the request, 5-0, with conditions.

Simon Gonzales, a certified building contractor representing the owner, said the ADU is intended to support a first-time homebuyer and provide space for aging parents who visit from abroad. "He's a first-time homebuyer. His goal is to create a small family oriented property improvement that supports his household and strengthen the community around him," Gonzales said.

Planner Marissa Jaremchuk summarized staff findings and recommended approval with a waiver for the 10-foot lot-width deficit; the property is about 0.14 acres and the ADU was listed at 798 square feet with a height of 23 feet, 6 3/8 inches. Staff recommended conditions including an opaque privacy fence or wall along the east and rear property lines (6 feet) and that front setback fencing not exceed 4 feet.

Board member Jonathan Burgess moved to grant the permit with the stated conditions; the motion was seconded and the board voted unanimously to approve. "The item is approved 5 to 0," the chair announced.

What happens next: The approval is conditional upon the fencing and other permit conditions stated in the motion; the applicant and staff will finalize details in building permit review and inspection processes.

Reported from the Dec. 4, 2025 meeting of the City of West Palm Beach Zoning Board of Appeals.