A proposal aimed at making it easier to build on smaller, irregular infill lots includes a provision to eliminate an extra buffer between taller buildings and neighboring single-family homes.
The Miami City Commission will consider a zoning change on Thursday that would eliminate an extra setback requirement designed to create space between single-family homes and nearby larger-scale development.
The proposed ordinance, sponsored by Mayor Eileen Higgins, would remove a rule requiring additional side and rear setbacks when mid- and high-rise projects — typically five stories or more — are built next to single-family homes.
If approved, those projects would instead follow standard setback requirements, eliminating the extra buffer and allowing buildings to be constructed closer to neighboring properties.
Areas in the Grove that could be affected include properties along the edges of the central business district, along major thoroughfares zoned for taller buildings, and portions of South Bayshore Drive, where higher-density zoning often abuts existing single-family homes.
City officials — including Higgins, in comments to the city’s Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board (PZAB) last week — say the change is intended to simplify zoning rules and make it easier to develop small or irregular infill lots.
The ordinance also gives developers the option to build single-family homes or duplexes on sites otherwise zoned for larger buildings, using lower-scale design rules typically applied in residential neighborhoods — a change city officials say could make it easier to develop smaller or irregular lots that are difficult to build under current standards.
Planning staff have recommended approval, describing the amendment as a way to improve design flexibility and reduce constraints that can complicate development on smaller parcels.
The proposal does not change allowable height or density under existing zoning. But by removing the additional setback requirement, it could reduce the physical separation between single-family homes and taller buildings already permitted on adjacent sites.
PZAB approved the proposed change unanimously, sending it to the City Commission for a vote Thursday.
