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Board approves variance allowing accessory buildings for storage only amid neighborhood objections
Summary
The board approved a variance at 4038 Driscoll Road allowing two accessory structures to remain on a lot without a primary residence, limited to storage use; neighbors complained about long-running code issues and makeshift septic systems. The motion passed 5–3 with three board members opposed.
The Santa Rosa County Zoning Board approved a variance permitting two accessory structures to remain at 4038 Driscoll Road in Milton, but limited the approval to storage-only use and required the applicant to complete standard permitting steps before converting any accessory building to residential use.
Planning staff described the property's code-enforcement history and noted abatement activity. Applicant Linda Wood Owens said storms (Hurricane Ivan and later Sally) damaged the original residence and that she paid $7,000 for engineering plans in 2018; she also said city water and sewer access is delayed and that she has health limitations. Neighbors presented a packet of concerns. Michael Jingo represented neighborhood signers and said the property “has been going on since 2018” and alleged makeshift septic and maintenance problems. Board members pressed about engineered recertification under current codes, water/sewer timelines and the potential to place a time limit on a variance. The motion as amended — approving two accessory structures for storage purposes only and requiring proper permitting to convert to residential use — passed 5–3, with Jane Hayes, Ed Carson and Jean Sullivan recorded in objection. The board noted that variance approvals are subject to later permitting and enforcement processes and that appeals may be filed with Planning staff for the Board of County Commissioners.
