Commission adopts ordinance loosening homestead rule for A-2 wedding venues

The New Smyrna Beach City Commission voted unanimously to adopt Ordinance 21-25, which revises the city’s land development regulations for wedding venues in the A‑2 agricultural zoning district. The ordinance removes a prior homestead-related condition and requires compliance with fire-prevention code unless the fire marshal grants an exemption.

Staff member Stephanie told the commission that the property at 1711 Martin Sirry Road first became a wedding venue in 2017 after a text amendment created a conditional use for venues in A‑2. She said the original owner voluntarily included a homestead-related condition that subsequent owners have found difficult to meet. “We have 16 properties in the A‑2 zone that could be eligible and 15 meet the five‑acre minimum,” Stephanie said, noting the proposed change responds to turnover and owners’ difficulty homesteading.

Commissioners asked whether removing the homestead requirement would turn such properties into commercial parcels. Stephanie and the city attorney replied that the presence of a residence and the agritourism classification do not automatically convert the lot to commercial, but that structures used for events must meet applicable occupancy and safety codes. The ordinance includes language requiring fire-safety compliance and approval by the fire marshal.

Commissioner Perrine moved to adopt the ordinance and Vice Mayor Christian Martin seconded. The clerk called the roll and the commission recorded five votes in favor and none opposed; the motion carried. The ordinance will be codified and take effect pursuant to its provisions.