Adding or modifying a driveway in Winter Haven requires Driveway Connection Approval from the Building Division. Under Sec. 21-146, homes must park in a driveway, carport, garage, or parking lot — parking on unimproved front-yard grass is prohibited — and driveway surfaces must meet city standards.
Winter Haven's Building Division at 490 Third Street NW (863-291-5695) issues Driveway Connection Approval applications, reviewed under Chapter 21 Article III Division 3 of the Unified Land Development Code. Section 21-146 requires residential buildings with fewer than five units to park in a driveway, carport, garage, or parking lot, and bans parking on unimproved portions of the front yard. The driveway portion in the public right-of-way must be asphalt, concrete, brick, or decorative pavers; inside the property line, grid pavers, crushed stone, or rock gravel are also allowed with engineering services approval. Permits are required even when widening or replacing an existing driveway connection.
Building or altering a driveway connection without an approved application is a Ch. 21 zoning violation enforced via Code Compliance. The Special Magistrate may order removal, restoration, or a daily fine up to $250 under FS Ch. 162.
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