Florida’s Live Local Act (LLA) aims to maximize the development potential of mixed-income housing projects so more people can live where they work. At the same time, it also works to balance community concerns regarding height, particularly in areas adjacent to single-family neighborhoods.

Recently revised height restriction provisions attempt to provide this balance and 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 greater.

• Adjacent 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 greater.

Understanding the height restrictions under the Live Local Act is crucial for developers and local governments as they navigate new regulations. The Act’s provisions aim to encourage mixed-income housing development projects while remaining cognizant of existing neighborhood developments.

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