St. Pete Beach eases code regulation in Hurricane Milton’s aftermath

ST. PETE BEACH — City commissioners have adopted a 60-day emergency amendment to the local land development code to allow certain storm-damaged items — most notably air conditioners — to be replaced in properties that might otherwise be considered “nonconforming.”

Senior planner Brandon Berry said the move aims to “promote expediency in addressing widespread health, safety and welfare issues anticipated in the wake of Hurricane Helene (and) local impacts from Hurricane Milton.”

Berry noted the amendment “may be extended under similar circumstances or made permanent through the standard amendment process.”

When replaced, equipment such as air conditioning compressors or swimming pool spa filters...