Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Miami Beach public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in zoning with medium priority
Design review of proposed projects across Miami Beach
Seven design review applications are set for the board's November 19 docket, including the high-profile "1212 Lincoln" project on Lincoln Road. The board's decisions shape how new buildings and renovations look in Miami Beach neighborhoods. Nothing has been decided yet — the meeting is the public's chance to watch or weigh in.
Single-Family Home Berms and Design Review Requirements
The city is considering code changes to discourage single-family homes built on elevated berms and require Design Review Board approval for all single-family homes.
Historic Home Restoration and Tax Exemptions at 1722 Jefferson Avenue
A property owner is restoring a 1924 historic home in Palm View while maintaining it as a single-family residence, receiving pool setback variances and a recommendation for a tax break.
Byron Avenue Multi-Family Residential Redevelopment
A proposal for a new 4-story multi-family condominium building in North Beach that sparked board debate regarding balcony sizes, massing, and neighborhood compatibility.
Streamlined Railing Guidelines for Non-Contributing Buildings
The city is updating design guidelines to let staff quickly approve replacement railings on non-contributing buildings. This helps older apartment and condo buildings pass strict safety recertifications without getting bogged down in lengthy board hearings.
Single-Family Rooftop Deck Regulation Reform
The board initiated a policy recommendation to review and relax restrictive single-family home rooftop deck limits to better reflect modern South Florida living.
Single-Family Driveway Width Restrictions
The board discussed revising single-family driveway regulations that currently restrict driveway widths on narrow lots, contributing to street parking congestion.
Privacy and Noise Variances for Waterfront Home at 6300 Allison Road
Homeowners on Allison Island sought variances to build an 8-foot wall and an open-air pergola to block heavy traffic noise and pedestrian views from the nearby 63rd Street bridge. The board approved the request to help address unique site constraints.
Vacant Lot Fencing Aesthetics
The city is looking to update its rules so property owners can put up nice decorative wraps on vacant lots instead of ripped green mesh, making the city look better for visitors and residents.
Exterior Color Review Sunset Extension
The city considered extending a temporary rule that suspends exterior paint color reviews, but planning staff and the board pushed back, warning it could lead to disruptive building colors in historic districts.