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Board approves generator platform variance for homeowner citing medical need
Summary
The St. Pete Beach Board of Adjustment granted Case 26039, allowing a homeowner to keep a Generac backup generator platform with a condition that the platform be used only for the air handler/generator, citing the resident's medical needs and nearby neighbor outreach.
The St. Pete Beach Board of Adjustment voted to approve variance Case 26039 on a unanimous vote, allowing a recently constructed Generac generator platform to remain at the property with a staff-recommended condition that the platform be used only for the air handler/generator.
Paul Huggin, the applicant, told the board he installed the unit in a small alcove after the equipment would not fit the originally planned location and that he did not realize a variance was required before construction. "I did not have the foresight to apply for the variance before building it. I just built it and didn't know that I had to get a variance," Huggin said. He said the household includes a daughter with respiratory issues for whom a backup generator is not optional.
Board members questioned alternatives such as swapping equipment or placing the unit on the roof. Sheena Cody, who identified herself as part of the building team, said the Generac requires three feet of clear space on all sides and certain vertical clearance to preserve airflow and prevent overheating. The applicant also said a neighbor strongly opposed rooftop placement because it would put the unit near the neighbor's window and could create vibration and noise.
Members balanced concern about granting variances for new construction with the medical hardship presented. One member said new builds generally should meet setback requirements going forward, but several members said the applicant had engaged neighbors and that the medical need and technical clearance requirements supported approval in this case. A motion to approve Case 26039, including the staff recommendation that the platform be restricted to air-handler/generator use, passed with members Core, Small, Schmidt and Chair Chase voting yes.
The board's approval was narrowly tailored: the platform may remain but must be used only for the air handler/generator as stated in the motion. The record does not show any appeal or further action on this case at the Board level; the item concluded and the board proceeded to the next agenda item.
