Board approves variance for elevated generator at 199 21st Avenue

The St. Pete Beach Board of Adjustment voted to approve variance case 26112, allowing an elevated generator to be installed within the western side-yard setback at 199 21st Avenue. Senior planner Brandon Berry told the board the request seeks a 4-foot setback where 7 feet is required under the land development code; staff recommended approval with two conditions, including limiting future generators to 65 decibels at the receiving property and submission of an approved final survey.

Agent Gregory Haas of Generators Supercenter explained placement constraints and safety clearances for the proposed unit, saying some locations were infeasible because of windows, vents and existing equipment. "That generator did not go by the rules and requirements of the generator setbacks and everything," Haas said, describing why a new placement was proposed. Board members expressed support for homeowners making storm-resilience improvements and approved the motion by roll call; the tally was unanimous in favor.

The board recorded the approval with staff conditions tying the variance to the shown location and the noise limitation. The decision resolves case 26112 unless an appeal is filed; the board noted the request was a modest encroachment and emphasized the need for a verified as-built survey before final acceptance.