LPA backs administrative exception to setbacks for elevated utility meters

The Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency voted unanimously on May 12 to forward a legislative text amendment to town council that would create a narrow exception in the land development code for platforms and access stairs required to elevate electric meters and related equipment above base flood levels.

Staff said the measure is intended to streamline permitting for homeowners and builders when Florida Power & Light (and other utility requirements) require meters or panels to be raised for resiliency. Instead of having those situations go through a public variance hearing, the code change would provide an administrative path with design criteria and limits to prevent the administrative relief from being used to expand decks or other living areas in ways that would circumvent other rules.

Jason Green, community development staff, told the board that the change responds to repeated variance requests and would reduce cost and delay for property owners while ensuring access for emergency services. LPA members asked staff to preserve safeguards that prevent the exception from being used to expand decks or other residential living areas.

The LPA’s unanimous motion sent the text amendment to the town council for final consideration.

What’s next: The ordinance will be packaged by staff and placed on a future Town Council agenda for a legislative vote.

Key quote: “We found that as buildings are elevated and meters and panels are being elevated, access has become a critical component…we decided why not create a text amendment that helps expedite that process.” — Jason Green, Community Development.

(Reporting from the LPA meeting, May 12.)