Zoning board grants small setback variance for Seacrest Drive pool after contractor explains costs

The Walton County Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a variance March 26 allowing an existing swimming pool and attached spa at 460 Seacrest Drive to remain with minor relief from the required side and rear setbacks.

Steve Rhodes, who identified himself as the pool contractor, explained the built pool is slightly beyond the permitted rear and side setbacks (he described an 11-inch and 12-inch encroachment for small portions of the spa/pool). Rhodes said the cost and neighborhood disruption of removing or significantly altering the pool would be substantial. County planning staff (Jesus Navarro) entered a staff report noting the application technically did not meet all variance standards but presented the practical alternatives and possible director-level relief in the future.

Board members said the impact to neighbors is minimal and moved to approve the variance conditioned on a tied-to-survey application showing the affected area. The motion passed by voice vote with one member recorded as opposed on the floor.

The variance allows final permitting and closing out of the project; county staff said the variance will be reflected in the official survey and permit record.