1. When does the Board of County Commissioners meet?
You can find the schedule of all upcoming Board Meetings and Workshops posted on the Calendar of Events.
Please note: The schedule is tentative and meeting dates are subject to change.
Meetings are held in the
Commission Chambers:
Brevard
County Government
Center
2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Building C, First Floor
Viera,
Florida
32940
2. Are meeting agendas available?
An advanced agenda is available for each meeting 7 days prior to the meeting. Agendas are posted on the Clerk of the Court website, or can be obtained by contacting the Clerk to the Board at 321-637-2001.
The preliminary agenda is subject to change prior to the meeting. Additions, deletions and other modifications are posted to the online copy as they occur.
3. How can I express my concerns on an issue to the Board of County Commissioners?
A. Contact a Department (See the Department/Office Index)
B. Contact the County Manager (321) 633-2010
C. Contact your Commissioner (See Commissioners web page)
D. Submit a Citizen's Request to speak at a Board meeting. Print this form: Citizen's Request, complete and fax to the Agenda Specialist. Fax (321) 633-2115, Phone (321) 633-2010.
4. How do I obtain a record of a past Board Meeting?
A. Official minutes are posted on the Clerk of Courts website.
B. Contact the Clerk to the Board, (321) 637-2001, to request a copy of the official meeting minutes.
C. Contact SCGTV, (321) 690-6843, to purchase a DVD copy of the meeting.
Common
Questions
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY PROPERTY IS IN THE UNINCORPORATED COUNTY OR A CITY?
If you are unsure whether or not your property is in the county or a
city, you may call ADDRESS ASSIGNMENT at 633-2061 or 633-2072.
WHAT IS THE TOTAL POPULATION OF BREVARD COUNTY?
As of October 2002, the total population of Brevard County is 476,230
with 188,918 residing in the unincorporated area. Unincorporated means
those areas of Brevard County not under the jurisdiction of the cities
but is under the jurisdiction of the Board of County Commissioners.
WHAT DOES AD VALOREM TAX MEAN?
Ad Valorem tax is the tax levied on the assessed value of real property
(also known as “property taxes”). It is the primary source of revenue
for the County. Property taxes are derived from all non-exempt and personal
property and are computed by multiplying the adopted tax rate by the
taxable value of all real and personal property, divided by 1,000.
WHAT IS TAX RATE?
The amount of tax stated in terms of a unit of the tax base. For example:
1 mill equals $1 per $1,000 taxable value.
WHAT IS A MILL?
A mill, mills or millage is a tax rate on property based on $1 per $1,000
of assessed property value.
WHAT IS TAXABLE VALUATION?
The value used for computing the ad valorem taxes levied against property.
The taxable value is the assessed value less any exclusions or exemptions
allowed by law. An example of the most common exemption allowed is
the $25,000 homestead exemption allowed if the owner uses the property
as the principal residence.
WHAT DOES ASSESSED VALUE MEAN?
The County’s Property Appraiser sets property valuations of your property
(real estate or personal property) as a basis for levying taxes. The
Property Appraiser prepares the annual tax roll.
WHAT DOES ROLLED BACK AD VALOREM TAX RATE MEAN?
The millage needed to be levied in order to generate the same amount
of tax dollars received in the previous fiscal year excluding revenue
from new construction. The rolled-back rate adjusts for re-appraisals
based on the market value of property.
The only source of additional tax revenue, if rolled-back is levied,
is the tax revenue from new construction of taxable property.
WHAT DOES TENTATIVE MILLAGE MEAN?
The tax rate adopted in the first public hearing of a taxing authority
(County Commission, Cities, School Board, St. John’s River Water Management
District, etc.). Under State law, the authority may reduce but NOT
increase the tentative millage during the final budget hearing.
HOW MANY BUDGET HEARINGS ARE THERE?
The Board of County Commissioners hold public budget workshops during
the spring and summer of each year. The Board then holds two public
hearings during the summer to determine its millage for the upcoming
Fiscal Year. By State Statute,
the School Board determines its dates first then the County Commission
sets its two budget hearing dates.
I SEE "TRIM NOTICE" ON MY TAX BILL. WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?
TRIM means Truth in Millage. A 1980 Florida law established the budget
on the tax levying process for local taxing governments. It was designed
to keep the public informed about the intentions of the various taxing
authorities.
WHAT DOES AGGREGATE TAX RATE MEAN?
A rate obtained by dividing the sum of all revenue generated by ad valorem
taxes levied by the governing body (Board of County Commissioners) by
the taxable value of all assessed property in the County. This represents
a weighted average tax rate expressed in mills.
WHAT DOES CHARTER OFFICER MEAN?
Brevard County has five (5) County Constitutional Officers and two (2)
State Constitutional Officers who are elected by all registered voters
in Brevard County. They are independent of the Board of County Commissioners
reporting to the State. However, the Board of County Commissioners has
responsibility for their budgets.
Charter Officers include: (click for their websites)
Brevard
County Sheriff, Clerk of Courts,
Property Appraiser,
Tax Collector,
Supervisor of Elections,
State Attorney,
Public Defender.
WHAT DOES THE TERM GENERAL FUND USED IN THE COUNTY BUDGET
MEAN?
A fund containing revenues, such as property taxes, designated by law
and providing general benefit to the public. Some
of the functions that are part of the General Fund include Charter Officers,
Courts and General County Government.
WHAT DOES FISCAL YEAR MEAN?
The twelve-month financial period used by the County that begins October
1 and ends September 30 of the following year. The fiscal year is identified
by the year in which it ends. For example: October 1, 2003 to September
30, 2004 would be identified as Fiscal Year 2004.
WHAT IS A MSBU?
Municipal Service Benefit Unit (MSBU) is a SPECIAL ASSESSMENT district
authorized by Florida Statute 125.01 to provide for improvements and/or
services to a specifically defined area of the County and financed
by a special assessment to only those citizens receiving the benefits
of those improvements of services.
WHAT IS A MSTU?
Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU) is a TAXING DISTRICT authorized
by State Constitution, Article VII and Florida Statute 125.01. The MSTU
is a legal and financial mechanism for providing specific services and/or
improvements to a defined geographical area. An MSTU may levy ad valorem
taxes to provide funds for the improvements.
Zoning Applications Requiring Public Hearing FAQ
Why would a public hearing for a zoning action be needed?
A public hearing is needed in order to change the zoning on a property. Additionally, a hearing is necessary if you wish to conduct an activity on a property which requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).
1. Do I need to own the property in order to request a zoning action?
If you do not own the property, the property owner of record must authorize you to make the application. A notarized statement from the property owner of record must accompany the application.
2. Do I need an attorney to apply for a zoning action?
No, but you may hire one if you choose. Public hearings are quasi-judicial proceedings, whereby the Board of County Commissioners’ decision is based upon substantial competent evidence from professionally qualified witnesses (such as engineers, land planners, surveyors, etc.) presented at the hearings.
3. When can I apply for a zoning action?
Applications are accepted everyday at the Planning & Zoning Office (PZO) until 4:00 p.m. Deadline dates are posted in the PZO for each scheduled meeting. Applications can be obtained at the PZO or from the PZO web page.
4. Do I need an appointment to submit an application?
You are encouraged to make an appointment to submit your application. It offers your best assurance that a planner will be available to assist you. Walk-ins are handled on a first-come first-served basis, depending upon staff availability. Avoid deadline day, if possible, for best service.
5. How often are zoning meetings held?
Meetings are typically held once a month. The Planning and Zoning Board and the Board of County Commissioners recess for the months of June and December.
6. What do I need to do in order to make application for a zoning action?
You must submit your application in person at the Planning & Zoning Office. After completing the application form and assembling the necessary paperwork (see Item 9 below), call 633-2070 to schedule an appointment to submit your zoning application. Having an appointment is the best means of ensuring that a planner is available to assist you upon your arrival.
7. How can I get my signature notarized?
A Notary Public must notarize your signature on the application form. The Planning & Zoning Office has notaries on staff. If you wish to utilize our notaries, do not sign your papers beforehand. The Notary Public must witness you signing your name.
8. What do I need to bring with me in order to submit an application for a zoning action?
Bring your completed application form as well as the following:
o A copy of the most recent recorded warranty deed; and
o A Brevard County Property Appraiser’s map describing the exact parcel (obtainable at Map Reproduction in Building D of the Viera Government Center); and
o The complete legal description of the property typed on a separate sheet of paper or if the request cannot be easily described, a certified survey of the property for which application is made; and
o Fee payable by cash or check (made payable to the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners), or by credit card after 10/1/2000. Planning & Zoning Office staff is glad to calculate your fee prior to submitting your application.
o Additionally, if you are filing an application for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), the CUP worksheet must also be submitted accompanied by either a sealed site plan or dimensioned sketch plan. Prior to submitting your application, check with Planning & Zoning Office staff to find out which type of plan you are required to submit.
o Applications for Conditional Use Permits for Towers & Antennas have additional technical submittal requirements. Please request a separate handout if you are planning to make such an application.
9. What occurs at the public hearing?
A zoning action requires two (2) advertised public hearings. The first is held by the Planning and Zoning Board, which is an advisory body appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. You are given an opportunity to present your request to them. You may wish to use experts to establish substantial competent evidence. Other interested parties attending the meeting are also given an opportunity to speak regarding your application. The Planning and Zoning Board makes a recommendation (for approval or denial) to the Board of County Commissioners. The second public hearing is conducted by the Board of County Commissioners, approximately three to four weeks after the Planning and Zoning Board meeting. Once again, you are asked to present your request to the Board, and interested parties are invited to comment. The Board of County Commissioners will make a final decision regarding your application (approval or denial) at the conclusion of the public hearing. If you are dissatisfied with the decision of the Board of County Commissioners, you may appeal this decision to the Courts within thirty (30) days of the Board of County Commissioners action.
10.How long does the public hearing process take?
It takes approximately 12 weeks from the application deadline date for the full public hearing process to be completed. Conditional Use Permits for Towers & Antennas will generally take an additional month due to the need to have a Consultant conduct a technical review of the application.
Board
of Adjustment Questions (Variances)
Variance Application Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why would a public hearing for a variance be needed?
A public hearing is needed in order to request a waiver (referred to as a "variance") from selected requirements of Brevard County’s Land Development Regulations. See Item 4 for greater details.
2. Does the Board of County Commissioners conduct this type of public hearing?
No, the Board of Adjustment (BOA) is empowered by Brevard County Code to hear requests for variances. Unlike public hearings for zoning actions, only one public hearing is required for a variance application.
3. If I need my property to be rezoned in addition to needing a variance, which Board hears my application?
The rezoning request must be heard by the Planning & Zoning Board and the Board of County Commissioners. The public hearing for the variance application is conducted by the Board of Adjustment.
4. Can I apply for a variance from any requirement of Brevard County’s Land Development Regulations?
No, the Board of Adjustment is only authorized to take action on certain types of requests. Typical requests include variances from setback, lot size, and fence height requirements as well as variances from signage regulations. The Board of Adjustment does not have authority to waive requirements governing access to lots via easements or flag stems; Comprehensive Plan requirements; matters pertaining to concurrency requirements; impact fees; subdivisions & plats; site plans; environmental protection; flood protection; coastal setbacks and control lines; landscaping; tree protection; land clearing and land alteration; or adult entertainment regulations. Additionally, the Board of Adjustment cannot grant a variance which would result in a change of land use that is not permitted by the zoning classification of the property.
5. Do I need an attorney to apply for a variance?
No, but you may hire one if you choose. Public hearings are quasi-judicial proceedings, whereby the Board of Adjustment’s decision is based upon substantial competent evidence from professionally qualified witnesses (such as engineers, land planners, surveyors, etc.) presented at the hearings.
6. When can I apply for a variance?
Applications are accepted every business day at the Planning & Zoning Office (PZO) until 4:00 p.m. Deadline dates are posted in the PZO for each scheduled meeting. Applications can be obtained at the PZO or from the PZO web page.
7. Do I need an appointment to submit an application?
You are encouraged to make an appointment to submit your application. It offers your best assurance that a planner will be available to assist you. Walk-ins are handled on a first-come first-served basis, depending upon staff availability. Avoid deadline day, if possible, for best service.
8. How often are these meetings held?
Board of Adjustment meetings are held monthly, typically on the third Wednesday of the month, at 1:30 p.m. in the Commission Chamber of the Government Center in Viera.
9. What do I need to do in order to make application for a variance?
You must submit your application in person at the Planning & Zoning Office. After completing the application form and assembling the necessary paperwork (see Item 11 below), call 633-2070 to schedule an appointment to submit your variance application. Having an appointment is the best means of ensuring that a planner is available to assist you upon your arrival.
10.How can I get my signature notarized?
A Notary Public must notarize your signature on the application form. The Planning & Zoning Office has notaries on staff. If you wish to utilize our notaries, do not sign your papers beforehand because the Notary Public must witness your signature.
11.What do I need to bring in order to submit an application for a variance?
Bring your completed application form as well as the following:
a. A Brevard County Property Appraiser’s map describing the exact parcel (obtainable at Map Reproduction in Building "D" in the Government Center at Viera); and
b. A copy of the most recent recorded warranty deed; and
c. The complete legal description of the property typed on a separate sheet of paper if the warranty deed reflects property other than that for which the variance is being requested; and
· Please Note: An error in the legal description will result in your request being delayed at your expense.
d. A current certified survey showing all existing structures and all proposed structures, if the application involves setback requests; and
e. Notarized statement(s) (Form A) from all property owners listed on the warranty deed authorizing you to act on their behalf; and
f. Variance hardship worksheet (see Item 12 below); and
g. Fee payable by cash or check (made payable to the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners) or credit card. Fees are charged on a per variance basis. Planning & Zoning Office staff is glad to calculate your fee prior to submitting your application.
· Incomplete submittals cannot be accepted.
12.What is a variance hardship worksheet?
In order for the Board of Adjustment to approve a variance, a number of pre-requisites must be met. The variance hardship worksheet outlines each of the pre-requisites and provides the applicant with the opportunity to explain how these pre-requisites have been met. In general, a variance may be granted when:
1. it will not be contrary to public interest; and
2. special conditions preclude the property from meeting the requirements of the Code (personal medical and economic reasons, unless reasonable use of the land cannot otherwise be achieved, do not qualify as a basis for establishing undue hardship).
More specifically, the Board of Adjustment must find that all of the following factors apply:
3. Special conditions/circumstances exist which are not applicable to other properties/improvements in the applicable zoning classification; and
4. Said special conditions/circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant; and
5. Granting the variance will not bestow a special privilege on the applicant that is denied to other properties/improvements in the identical zoning classification; and
6. Literal interpretation of the Zoning Code would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the identical zoning classification, resulting in undue hardship; and
7. The variance granted is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the property/improvement; and
8. The granting of the variance will be in harmony with the general intent and purpose of the Code and will not be injurious to the area or otherwise detrimental to public welfare.
13.What occurs at the public hearing?
You are given an opportunity to present your request to the Board of Adjustment. You may wish to use experts to establish substantial competent evidence. Other interested parties attending the meeting are also given an opportunity to speak regarding your application. The Board of Adjustment will make a final decision regarding your application (approval, approval with conditions, or denial) at the conclusion of the public hearing. If you are dissatisfied with their decision, you may appeal the decision to the Courts within thirty (30) days of the Board’s action.
14.How long does the public hearing process take?
It takes approximately 6 weeks from the application deadline date for the public hearing to be held. The variance process only entails one public hearing.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ADOPTS ORDINANCE REGULATING RESORT DWELLINGS
Ordinance 2005-27, adopted by the Board of County Commissioners on May 19, 2005, establishes provisions for the regulation of resort dwellings. A resort dwelling is a residence that is rented out for periods of less than 90 days. Only structures located in multi-family zoning classifications, or nonconforming multi-family structures located in single-family classifications, qualify for permanent status as resort dwellings. All resort dwellings require an occupational license. Please see details at the "Resort Dwelling Ordinance 2005-27" link below.
RESORT DWELLING ORDINANCE 2005-27 (pdf)
The Board of County Commissioners funds and operates a Code Enforcement Program for the unincorporated areas of Brevard County.
The mission of Code Enforcement is to ensure and enhance the quality of life of county residents by requiring owners of property in non compliance with county codes, to come into compliance.
The Code Enforcement Section is responsible for ensuring compliance with those ordinances and portions of the Brevard County Code dealing with non-criminal matters such as public nuisances, zoning violations, solid waste disposal violations, adult entertainment and turtle lighting regulations of life of county residents by requiring owners of property in non compliance with county codes, to come into compliance.
If you have any questions about code enforcement or the information on this website, please feel free to contact our office at 321-633-2086.
“The Citizens Property Standards Guide” is produced by Code Enforcement to try to answer many common questions. We hope you find the attached document helpful.” This document requires Adobe Reader.