The most notable issue involved the denial of a temporary construction fence application. The board scrutinized a property that had recently been granted a six-month extension by the Miami-Dade County Unsafe Structures Board to apply for a building permit for renovations. However, the county’s directive to issue a construction fence without a permit conflicted with Biscayne Park’s local regulations, which require permits for such fences. A board member raised concerns about the authority of the county to dictate local compliance, questioning the absence of clear documentation from the Unsafe Structures Board and the lack of directives from the village manager.

Despite a previous denial of a similar request, the board faced pressure to approve the application due to safety concerns and the county’s decision. However, board members emphasized that the application failed to comply with sections 18.5 and 18.5.2 of the village code, which mandate that a construction fence cannot be issued without an approved demolition or building permit. The application was ultimately denied unanimously, with members underscoring that the fence did not encompass the entire property as required.

Another discussion revolved around a homeowner who installed a shed without a permit, exceeding the local maximum size limit of 100 square feet with a 240-square-foot structure. The board addressed the homeowner’s acknowledgment of the oversight and provided guidance on modifying the shed to meet zoning regulations. The homeowner was advised to consider reducing the shed to 10 by 10 feet and to consult the building department for compliance, especially given the shed’s electrical components.

The meeting also covered a preliminary review of a new construction project on Northeast 117th Street, featuring a flat-roofed house design. The board acknowledged that previous comments had been addressed, allowing the project to move forward without further discussion on setbacks or lot coverage. Similarly, another project on Northeast 11th Place entered its first preliminary review phase. The board evaluated the design, which included specified setbacks and lot coverage compliance, but noted some confusion regarding the proposed figures.

The board’s agenda included various routine items, such as the approval of impact windows and doors at 12022 Griffing Boulevard, which passed without debate. A third preliminary review of a new construction project on Northeast 117th Street was also approved after confirming compliance with previous feedback.

Additional discussions highlighted the importance of architectural details in a proposed construction project, stressing the need for more features on a south-facing wall to avoid a blank appearance. The board encouraged the design team to enhance visual interest to meet architectural standards. Concerns about essential utilities, including air conditioning units and a potential pool, were addressed, emphasizing the need to avoid conflicts with the septic system.

The board maintained strict adherence to local codes throughout the proceedings, denying an application for a concrete slab due to excessive lot coverage, and rejecting another submission for minor exterior modifications due to incomplete documentation. A demolition request related to a property subdivision was tabled, pending clarification on future plans and compliance with zoning regulations.