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Pembroke Pines asks staff to study livestock and manure rules after neighbor complaints and Board of Adjustment variance
Summary
Commissioners directed staff and the city attorney to review the city’s land development code and other agency guidance after a Board of Adjustment variance and public complaints flagged unprocessed horse manure, possible runoff into waterways and gaps in local rules.
The Pembroke Pines City Commission on March 18 asked staff and the city attorney to examine whether local code changes or interagency guidance are needed to address livestock, grazing and manure-handling standards after a recent Board of Adjustment variance drew neighbor complaints.
Commissioner Schwartz said the board had considered only a setback variance but that the broader community raised issues about raw manure being spread on property, potential runoff to waterways and the humane conditions of horses kept on lots that meet the minimum acreage requirement. "Our code is silent on how much space is required for exercise and where manure can be stored or composted," said Mike Stamm, assistant city manager and director of planning and economic development.
Current rules and jurisdiction: Staff said the land development code allows livestock in certain zoning districts and requires lots roughly 35,000 square feet for up to four animals but does not specify grazing area, manure storage standards or composting practices. The city attorney noted the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and Florida Department of Agriculture may have jurisdictional roles and that some state preemption questions will need review.
Public concern and requests: A resident, Dave Brubeck, urged the city to examine whether federal regulations were implicated and formally requested records and an investigation into conflicting testimony at the Board of Adjustment hearing. Commissioners asked staff to consult comparable municipal codes (e.g., Southwest Ranches) and relevant state agencies and to report back with options to protect waterways, neighborhoods and animal welfare.
Next steps: City staff and counsel will research model standards for grazing, manure storage and composting; review possible preemption or state agency authority; and return to the commission with findings and potential code amendments or administrative guidance.
