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Board approves 6165 SW 64th with tree‑protection conditions after invasive‑tree review
Summary
DRB approved DRB2025‑004 (6165 SW 64th St) with staff conditions including erosion control, a tree protection barrier for an adjacent palm and follow‑up on a pending tree removal application; staff noted the species may be invasive (Bischofia) and removal could be permitted without mitigation if confirmed.
The City of South Miami Design Review Board unanimously approved DRB2025‑004, a proposed two‑story home at 6165 Southwest 64th Street, subject to staff conditions and coordination on tree protection and any required mitigation.
Staff summarized dimensional compliance (RS‑4), revised elevations and landscape corrections, and recommended approval with conditions to supply an erosion control plan and a tree protection barrier for an adjacent palm. "Staff's recommendation is for approval with conditions," Lourdes said.
Board members focused discussion on a large existing tree shown on the plan. Committee member Ariano asked whether the large tree (tree #2) would be retained; the applicant said the plan is to keep it if feasible. Board members raised concerns about roots, canopy clearance and neighbor coordination: if the trunk is split between properties, construction could affect stability and will require legal/permit resolution. A staff representative and the arborist identified the species as Bischofia javanica (bishop wood) and noted it is listed as invasive under local code; if confirmed, removal can be permitted as a no‑charge invasive removal with no mitigation requirement. "If it is confirmed that the tree will be removed, it's a no charge, no mitigation permit for invasives," a staff member said.
The board made a motion to approve the project with staff and board comments and voted unanimously in favor. Conditions recorded in the staff report — including compliance with the arborist’s recommendations, proper tree protection during construction and submittal of required permits — remain requirements before final permits are issued.
Next steps: staff will coordinate final arborist confirmation and the tree‑removal application status; if the invasive classification is confirmed, removal procedures and mitigation obligations will follow city code.
