by SC Reporter Emilie Alfino
The ordinance granting a limited exception for height and elevating existing structures was on the agenda for discussion and first reading at the Sanibel City Council’s May 5, 2026, meeting.
The purpose of this ordinance is to allow ground-level homes to elevate up to 10 feet above grade without regard to height limitations, for purposes of resiliency in the event of floods, as recommended by the Planning Commission.
The Land Development Code regulates height in residential districts in two ways: (1) overall height and (2) angle of light. Following Hurricane Ian, height standards in all residential districts were amended, effectively increasing allowable building height. Properties undertaking new construction or redevelopment must comply with these updated standards.
At the February 24, 2026, Land Development Code Review Subcommittee meeting, City staff explained that homeowners are pursuing permits to elevate ground-level homes that were not substantially damaged by a natural disaster but wish to elevate for resiliency purposes and to comply with FEMA regulations and the Florida Building Code. Some of these structures are proposed to be elevated above the required flood elevation, which may result in nonconformance with applicable height standards, including angle-of-light requirements.
City staff recommended allowing up to 10 feet above grade for nonconforming structures, even where that height exceeds the required design flood elevation, and allowing height limitations to be exceeded proportionally, including angle-of-light requirements. Allowing these elevations furthers the City’s resiliency goals, provided that the elevations meet the required FEMA flood elevation and comply with the Florida Building Code.
The public hearing for this ordinance is scheduled for the June 2, 2026, City Council meeting.