The Live Local Act includes numerous housing development provisions to encourage greater density and allow more people to live where they work. One such provision allows qualifying housing projects to exceed traditional height limitations under certain circumstances. This means developers can build taller, more densely populated buildings in Broward County to meet affordable housing goals while also maximizing project profitability.

Recently revised height restriction provisions as noted in Senate Bill 328 attempt to balance community concern with height, particularly in areas adjacent to single-family neighborhoods. They do this while also offering flexibility for mixed-use building developers.

By allowing increased height in appropriate areas, the LLA facilitates higher-density housing solutions and creates more workforce housing for the community. Here are noteworthy changes to height restrictions with the LLA:

• General height increases – The Act allows qualifying housing development projects to reach the maximum height permitted for commercial or residential within a one-mile radius or three stories, whichever is higher.

• Height restrictions for projects adjacent to single-family neighborhoods – For projects adjacent to predominantly single-family neighborhoods, specific height limitations apply. If a project borders a single-family zone on two or more sides and comprises at least 25 contiguous single-family homes, the height is restricted to 150 percent of the tallest adjacent building or three stories, whichever is higher.

While the LLA relaxes height restrictions for certain developments, it also requires developers to balance increased height with community impact. As you navigate these new regulations, it’s imperative to have a clear understanding of the height restrictions for your housing development project and how they impact the feasibility of your buildout.

If you have questions about the Live Local Act and what it means for mixed-used and multi-family development projects in Broward County, contact our team at Seacoast Consulting Group. We can help ensure your project complies with all building codes and safety regulations and represent you through the process.