The City of Fort Pierce wants to keep our residents informed about changes in state law that are affecting communities across Florida, including here in our city. One major change is the Live Local Act (Senate Bill 102) — a state law passed in 2023 and signed by the Governor that significantly affects how local governments regulate housing development.
What is the Live Local Act?
The Live Local Act is a state-mandated law that requires cities and counties across Florida to permit higher-density, mixed-use, and multifamily residential developments on properties that are zoned for commercial, industrial, or mixed-use — without requiring a rezoning process. The law is intended to promote affordable housing.
To qualify under this law:
• At least 40% of the housing units in a development must be rented to income-eligible households (those earning at or below 120% of Area Median Income) for at least 30 years.
• These developments are entitled to the highest residential density and building height allowed anywhere in the city or county — even if they’re proposed in less dense or shorter areas.
• Cities must administratively approve these developments if they meet the state's criteria — meaning the City Commission does not vote on them.
While the City of Fort Pierce, Mayor Linda Hudson, and other local governments strongly opposed the bill through the Florida League of Cities, the legislation was passed and became law. Local governments have no legal authority to opt out or override it.
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How Does the Live Local Act Affect Causeway Cove?
We understand that many Fort Pierce residents have raised concerns about the proposed development at Causeway Cove.
Here’s what you should know:
• Project Scope: The proposal includes 1,063 residential units in a mixed-use development. To qualify under the Live Local Act, 40% of the units must be affordable housing, reserved for income-eligible renters.
• Zoning and Use: The site is zoned C-5 Commercial and designated HIMU (High Intensity Mixed Use) in the City’s Future Land Use Map — making it eligible under state law.
• Height and Density: The Live Local Act allows the developer to build up to 200 feet in height because nearby zoning allows for it. Density is capped at 30 units per acre, as per citywide maximums.
• Parking: The City is required to consider reducing parking requirements if the development is within ¼ mile of a transit stop.
• Environmental and Traffic Reviews: The City has already requested traffic and environmental reports as part of the Technical Review process.
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What the City Can and Cannot Do
Because the Live Local Act is state law, the City must approve qualifying projects administratively, without a public hearing or vote, if they meet all applicable land development regulations and comprehensive plan criteria (excluding density, height, use, and floor area ratio — which are now governed by state law).
We recognize the concerns many residents have, especially about impacts on traffic, the environment, and neighborhood character. The City will continue to advocate for responsible development, transparency, and community input wherever possible — and we encourage residents to stay informed and engaged as we navigate the challenges of state-mandated housing policies.
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Stay Informed
For additional information about the Live Local Act on the Causeway Cove proposal, please contact:
City of Fort Pierce Planning Department: 772.467.3737
Email:planning@cityoffortpierce.com
Additional Information: https://cityoffortpierce.com/DocumentCenter/Index/1393
The City of Fort Pierce remains committed to preserving the character of our community while complying with state law. We thank our residents for staying engaged and informed.