Planning board advances accessory‑structure and corner‑lot fencing changes with added screening

The Planning and Advisory Board recommended a package of code clarifications and amendments that would allow certain permanent accessory structures (sheds, gazebos, tiki huts) to be placed in a defined 'second front yard' on corner lots, provided setbacks, permitting and engineering requirements are met. The board also recommended adding screening requirements for structures visible from neighboring properties and agreed to language letting some corner‑lot fences extend to the property line.

City staff explained the change is intended to reduce repeated appeals to the Board of Adjustment and to remove an inconsistency that penalizes corner‑lot homeowners who lack the backyard space of interior lots. Staff emphasized that accessory structures would still need proper engineering documentation for wind uplift and would be subject to the Florida Building Code where applicable.

Some neighbors raised visual‑impact concerns; Diane Douglas said a shed can be a reasonable solution for storage and can be designed attractively, while other residents worried about trailers or noisy commercial uses placed on corner parcels. Board members proposed additional screening (fences or landscape buffers) for structures placed toward the sidewalk and requested language consistent with screening rules used for RV/boat storage.

A motion incorporating required screening consistent with existing code sections was approved and will be forwarded to City Council. The board also moved forward recommended verbiage to permit fences to the property line on corner lots, with grandfathering for existing fences.