Affordable Housing Incentives Offered Through the Pinellas County Land Development Code
Further similar reading on ACASH…
Introduction
Pinellas County’s affordable housing incentives program, guided by Section 138-1346 of the Land Development Code, is a robust initiative that offers tangible benefits to developers while addressing housing affordability. By streamlining processes and providing financial relief, the county fosters a collaborative environment for building affordable communities. For further details, developers can contact the Pinellas County Planning Department.
Affordable Housing Incentives in Pinellas County
Introduction Pinellas County, Florida, has developed a structured framework to encourage the creation of an affordable housing incentives program. This initiative, rooted in the Pinellas County Land Development Code, provides financial and regulatory incentives to developers committed to addressing housing affordability. These measures aim to spur the construction of housing for low- to moderate-income households while fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Purpose and Intent
Section 138-1346 of the Pinellas County Land Development Code outlines the certification process for Affordable Housing Developments (AHDs), the incentives available to their developers, and the review procedures. An AHD is defined as a housing project where at least 20% of the units are affordable for households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for rentals or 80% AMI for homeowners. These income limits are updated regularly by the Planning Department.
Available Incentives
Pinellas County offers a range of incentives to encourage affordable housing incentives developments, which include:
- Expedited Permit Processing: AHDs receive priority in the permitting process to minimize delays.
- Density Bonuses: Developers can increase housing density by up to 50% above the standard limits, subject to neighborhood compatibility.
- Review Fee Relief: County review fees can be waived or covered by the county.
- Accessory Structures: Developers may incorporate secondary units to enhance housing options.
- Reduced Parking Requirements: Parking minimums may be adjusted to reduce costs while ensuring neighbourhood compatibility.
- Reduced Setbacks: Developers can request up to 25% reductions in setback requirements.
- Zero Lot Lines: Single-family residential projects may adopt flexible lot configurations.
- Street Design Modifications: Changes to street layouts may be approved based on site conditions.
- Use of Public Land: Publicly owned properties may be donated or offered at low cost to support affordable housing.
- Housing in Commercial Zones: Developers can integrate up to 10 units per acre in commercial areas.
- Assistance in Identifying Residents: Resources are provided to help developers find eligible renters or buyers.
Administrative Process
Developers interested in AHD certification must submit applications to the Planning Department. Once certified, developers receive vouchers that grant access to incentives such as fee waivers and expedited processing. Certification must occur before applying for permits, and there are no exceptions to this rule.
For Owner-Occupied Housing
Builders creating affordable homes for sale to income-qualified buyers can seek expedited permitting, fee waivers, and modifications to development standards. Home prices must comply with annually determined limits, and projects must be certified as AHDs to qualify for incentives.
For Rental Housing Development
Rental housing developers can apply for expedited permitting, fee relief, and other incentives. They must sign a Land Use Restriction Agreement, committing to rent units to eligible households at affordable rates for a specified duration. Affordable units in rental communities must match market-rate units in size and quality.
Modification of Standards
Developers can request adjustments to zoning and development standards, such as reduced parking and setbacks. Modifications are reviewed by the Development Review Administrator, who coordinates county feedback. Some changes may require approval from the Board of Adjustment, to ensure compatibility with the neighborhood.
Oversight and Compliance
Developers must ensure that all approved modifications align with county plans and that AHDs adhere to affordability standards throughout the project’s life cycle. Rental rates are adjusted annually, and increases require a 30-day notice to tenants. If a tenant’s income exceeds the program limit, they may stay, but the next available unit must be rented to an eligible household.