Board approves 2‑story courtyard home at 6765 SW 64th Street; applicant raises possible height amendment idea

The Design Review Board voted to approve DRB‑2025‑028, a two‑story courtyard residence proposed for 6765 Southwest 64th Street, with standard conditions including a required tree removal application and compliance with the Florida Building Code.

Staff said the 17,250‑square‑foot corner lot meets RS‑3 dimensional standards and provided zoning calculations showing impervious coverage at about 44.9% (under the 45% cap). “The proposed building height is at 25 feet from grade to the average, and that's the maximum allowable,” staff said while reviewing elevations and materials. The applicant’s presentation emphasized preservation of specimen trees (including a live oak and a strangler fig) and described root‑spading and mitigation measures by an arborist.

Board members generally praised the design and materials but raised practical concerns: one member asked about ficus trees under power lines and suggested trees removed should be replaced, and others suggested clarifying septic rooting and roof equipment screening. The applicant noted the design keeps the primary street elevation sympathetic to neighboring homes and proposed one alternate elevation showing one additional foot of height in case of a future code amendment. A board member cautioned that any broader code change should go through commissioners and the planning director and suggested pursuing a project‑level variance if needed.

The board approved the application with staff and board comments; required permit reviews (tree removal, building permits) must be completed before construction begins.