Commissioners deny storage/vehicle parking permit in Ocala Waterways Estates after neighbors cite code violations

Marion County commissioners voted on Nov. 17 to deny a special‑use permit (case 251003SU) that would have allowed a small storage facility and commercial vehicle parking in the Ocala Waterways Estates subdivision.

Jared Rivera of Marion County Growth Services told the board the 0.41‑acre site is inside the springs‑protection overlay and the urban growth boundary and is the subject of multiple code cases. "We find that it will adversely affect the public interest," Rivera said, recommending denial. The planning and zoning commission also recommended denial.

Applicant Luis Moises said he intended to store appliances and materials related to a property‑management business and that he is working to obtain other storage for larger operations. He said he did not intend the site to be a long‑term commercial yard.

Neighbors told the board the property has been a repeated nuisance: Joseph Signore, who lives two houses down, called the site incompatible with the residential area; Alfonso Picone said a large storage container was placed in a backyard and described ongoing noise and disturbance. Tom Sapp, code enforcement supervisor, noted the case is already scheduled for the code board in December and that staff would need access to the shed to clear items.

After deliberation, a motion to deny the special‑use permit passed; commissioners instructed staff and code enforcement to follow up and enforce compliance, noting that the permit would not be appropriate in a small residential lot.

Staff will continue the code case process and requires access to the property for inspection.