Tamarac, FL Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Section 10-2.8 of Tamarac's Land Development Code implements the state Live Local Act of 2023 as a local density bonus. A QMDA must devote a minimum of 65 percent of gross square footage to residential use, with at least 40 percent of those residential units kept as affordable rental units under the state's income definitions for at least 30 years, and the remaining square footage split between the residential share and a required non-residential component. In exchange, section 10-2.8(E)(6) grants the project the highest density allowed on any land in the city where residential development is permitted by right, without counting bonus density or flex and reserve units; the code states that ceiling is currently 50 dwelling units per acre.

Height rises with it: a QMDA may build to the tallest height currently allowed for a commercial or residential development anywhere within one mile of the site, or three stories, whichever is greater, though a QMDA touching two or more sides of a single-family area with 25 or more contiguous homes is capped at 150 percent of the tallest adjacent building or three stories. QMDA eligibility is limited to the I-1, I-2, MU-N, MU-C, MU-G, NC and PD zoning districts. Before a building permit issues, the property owner must record a covenant guaranteeing the affordability commitment and file an annual certification with Community Development every January 15; a QMDA review is administrative, decided by the Director rather than the city commission, with appeals going to the planning board.