Board approves house and porch variances but denies pool and ADU at Brookwood Drive; adds homestead/rental condition

The Pinellas County Board of Adjustment and Appeals on April 1 granted conditional approval for a rebuilt single‑family home and front porch at 844 Brookwood Drive South but denied two ancillary requests — for an in‑ground pool and a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) — because staff concluded the lot configuration would be over‑maximized.

Staff recommended approval of the primary dwelling and porch (requests 1 and 2) and denial of the pool and ADU (requests 3 and 4). Officer Jewett informed the board the property is currently advertised and used as a short‑term rental and does not possess the county certificate of use required for such operation. Applicant Tony Tang told the board, “I’m planning to move into the house once the house is built. I’m also planning to move my mom down from Canada.” He acknowledged the property was being rented and said he would comply with county requirements.

Board members and legal staff discussed the homestead exemption and the implications of approving variances while a rental or homestead status issue is outstanding. A member moved to approve staff recommendations — conditionally approving the house and porch, denying the pool and ADU — and added a condition that the owner correct permitting or homestead exemption status (obtain required rental permits or remove incorrect homestead exemption) before proceeding. The motion was seconded, carried unanimously, and the staff‑recommended outcomes were adopted.

The board approved the minutes for the prior meeting and adjourned. The applicant was advised by board members that the property appraiser’s office is in the building and paperwork can be processed there.