BOA approves outdoor storage conditional use at Softly Field Road

The Escambia County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a conditional‑use request on Jan. 21 to allow outdoor storage of trailers, boats and recreational vehicles at 4524 Softly Field Road.

Tom Hammond of Hammond Engineering, appearing as agent for Northwest Florida AC LLC, said the applicant’s findings of fact align with the county’s and that the proposed use is less intensive than other uses allowed under the site’s commercial zoning. County planner Andrew Homer reviewed maps, noted the parcel is split‑zoned but largely commercial with available public services and recommended approval subject to completion of the Development Review Committee (DRC) process and issuance of a development order.

Homer told the board screening and buffering requirements will apply and that the applicant must meet land development code standards for signs, lighting and solid waste service. The staff recommendation specified no repair, overhaul or salvage activities would be allowed and that exterior lighting should be deflected from adjoining properties.

The board approved the conditional use on a motion and second; the vote was unanimous.

Staff noted additional design and infrastructure details will be reviewed in subsequent development review steps.