Escambia County Board of Adjustment Approves Conditional Use for Horses

(ESCAMBIA) --- The Escambia County Board of Adjustment approved equestrian use on up to 20 acres.  

The July 15 meeting, which lasted less than 20 minutes, wrapped up the only item on the agenda quickly, allowing horses on 5570 N Blue Angel Pkwy and 5404 Blue Angel Pkwy.

(Photo: 5570 N Blue Angel Pkwy)

Property owner Derek Brown deferred his testimony to Escambia County Urban Planner Christina Smith to read off his conditional use application. Smith noted the 20 acres do provide “ample space” and the existing barn intended for horse housing is centrally located on the property and “maximizing separation from neighboring properties.”

(Photo: Property owner Derek Brown's Conditional Use application approved by the Escambia County Board of Adjustment July 15)

“This conditional use is to allow horses as an accessory use on two lots, totaling approximately 20 acres,” Smith explained, adding, “The proposed equestrian use will be conducted and maintained in a manner that is compatible with adjacent land uses.”

Smith explained the former Rural Residential (RR) zoning is now Mixed-Use Suburban (MU-S).

(Photo: Land map zoning changes for Blue Angel Parkway property)

“Additionally, one parcel and a portion of the second parcel were previously zoned RR, a zoning classification that permitted the keeping of farm animals, demonstrating a historical precedent for agricultural-related uses on the site,” Smith said.

The urban planner noted that the proposed use is not expected to generate a significant increase in traffic.

“The horses will be maintained for personal use rather than as part of a commercial operation,” Smith said. “The property owners will ensure that the animals are properly cared for and that the manure and waste are managed in a sanitary manner to prevent odors, insects or potential nuisances.”

After noting Brown’s application met all required criteria, Smith said, “Staff recommends approval of the Conditional Use as requested.” Ryan Donovan, who was in favor of the application, chose not to speak when asked by board members.

(Photo: Escambia County Board of Adjustment members unanimously approve a zoning change allowing for horses on the property)

Chair Willie Kirkland Jr. closed out the meeting after fifteen minutes, approving the application with full board approval, with raised hands.

“The staff finds that the applicant has submitted documentation that addresses all conditional use criteria,” Kirkland Jr. said. “Staff recommends conditional use as requested.”