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Commission denies setback variance for 960 Gulf Boulevard #5 after public hearing
Summary
The commission unanimously denied a variance request to reduce front/side/rear setbacks at 960 Gulf Boulevard #5; neighbors cited infrastructure and construction concerns while the applicant cited FEMA elevation and parking needs.
After a quasi-judicial public hearing the Indian Rocks Beach City Commission voted unanimously to deny Board of Adjustment case BOA 2026-03, a variance request for 960 Gulf Boulevard #5.
Planning staff explained the proposal would alter front, side and rear setbacks to allow an enlarged elevated structure with parking below. The applicant argued the request was needed to create a FEMA-compliant elevated home with functional parking and living space on a nonconforming, small lot, and noted precedent for nearby higher square-foot approvals. Opposing testimony from adjacent condominium residents raised concerns about construction staging, risks to an aging seawall and underground utilities, and argued the enlarged footprint encroached on setback standards.
The planning director confirmed the Board of Adjustment had denied the variance 5–0 at an earlier hearing and noted there were 26 correspondents opposing the project. After closing public testimony, a commissioner moved to deny the variance; the motion carried on a unanimous vote. The denial leaves the owner able to rebuild within the existing footprint and elevation rules but not to expand the unit as proposed without different approvals.
The commission recorded its denial; staff will follow up on any required code enforcement or permitting next steps for the parcel.
