Tarpon Springs Board Grants Multiple Setback Variances

In a recent meeting, the Tarpon Springs Board of Adjustments approved three variance requests for property renovations that encroached on existing setback requirements. The variances, granted to properties located on Poinsettia Avenue, 1618 Seabreeze Drive, and Jasmine Lake Drive, will allow homeowners to proceed with planned constructions, including a pool’s screened enclosure and additions to single-family homes.

The first item on the agenda addressed a variance request for a pool’s screened enclosure on Poinsettia Avenue. The homeowner, Mr. Evans, cited maintenance challenges and wildlife interference as reasons necessitating the variance. After city staff presented the case, the board approved the reduction of the required side setback and separation distance, allowing Mr. Evans to move forward with the pool improvements.

The following application pertained to a reduction of the required side yard setback for an addition to a home on Seabreeze Drive. The homeowner intended to reduce the setback from ten feet to 8.9 feet. The board considered the minimal encroachment this represented and stipulated that the lanai’s hard roof must comply with the primary structure’s setbacks. Notably, this property had a similar variance granted in 2019 which had expired due to not obtaining a building permit. The board revisited the property’s orientation, its compliance with R-100 standards, and the revised construction plans. Mr. Weikel, the applicant, explained the unique circumstances of the property, including the slant of the house and the presence of a pool. The board approved the variance request, enabling the homeowner to proceed with the planned addition.

The meeting also discussed another variance request for a property on Jasmine Lake Drive, where the homeowner sought a side yard setback reduction from ten feet to 8.7 feet for an addition. The board reviewed the site plan and assessed the potential impact on neighboring properties. After deliberation, the board approved the application, deeming the encroachment acceptable and in compliance with setback requirements.

In addition to variance requests, the latter part of the meeting encompassed comments on the draft comprehensive plan. Board members acknowledged the efforts of the staff in preparing the document and offered constructive feedback to enhance its quality. Suggestions for improvements were made, including the correction of grammatical and typographical errors. Staff members expressed their readiness to address the feedback provided by the board.

Note: This meeting summary was generated by AI, which can occasionally misspell names, misattribute actions, and state inaccuracies. This summary is intended to be a starting point and you should review the meeting record linked above before acting on anything you read. If we got something wrong, let us know. We’re working every day to improve our process in pursuit of universal local government transparency.

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