Pembroke Pines board approves driveway variances at 17010 NW 20th St to address accessibility needs

The Pembroke Pines Board of Adjustment on Monday approved two variances for 17010 Northwest 20th Street to legalize and expand an existing driveway to address accessibility and safety concerns.

Staff introduced the petition (ZVR2025-539 and ZVR2025-540), noting a city code‑compliance citation (case 250501623) for work performed without a permit and that Broward County aerial images show a similar driveway footprint as early as December 2011. The variances requested allowance of 65% front‑lot coverage where the code allows 40% and allowance of a 60% lot width where 40% is permitted.

Applicants Beatrice Posada and Pablo (last name recorded variously in the file) told the board they purchased the house in June 2024 and said the driveway was extended earlier in 2025. Beatrice Posada said her 76‑year‑old, legally blind mother lives with them and requires handicap‑accessible transportation. "She's legally blind," Posada said, adding that the household needs space for a portable wheelchair ramp and for medical drop‑off and pickup.

The submitted petition, read into the record by staff, included medical and accessibility justification and described the homeowner as a U.S. Army service‑disabled veteran who requires a stable, hard surface to get in and out of a vehicle. Staff emphasized the request was presented as an accessibility and safety measure rather than an aesthetic or parking change.

Engineering and staff advised that the applicant will need to meet engineering standards for any construction within the swale or approach across property lines and that final permits and inspections remain required. The board was told the property is within a planned unit development and that homeowners should confirm HOA approvals in addition to city permits.

Member Pitts moved to approve ZVR2025-539 (65% front‑lot coverage), citing Section 155.301 variance 1C; the motion was seconded and passed on a roll‑call vote with all present members voting yes. The board then approved ZVR2025-540 (60% lot width) by the same vote.

Staff directed the applicants to coordinate with building and zoning and to complete any required structural or landscaping work as part of the permit and inspection process. The board congratulated the applicants and thanked the veteran for his service.

The board's written decision will be provided to the applicants and filed with the city's records.