OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Planning and Zoning board unanimously approved a special use permit request from Partners Self Storage, LLC at its July 28 meeting. The request, which includes conditions recommended by county staff, now heads to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners for a public hearing.

Project Overview

  • Location: 7655 E. Hwy 25, Belleview (former Elks Lodge site)
  • Size: Approximately 11 acres
  • Zoning: Community Business (since 1987)
  • Land Use: Changed from medium residential to commercial in March
  • Access: Signalized intersection at E. Hwy 25 and SE Hwy 25A

The applicant, Klein & Klein, PLLC, is seeking approval to allow for outdoor storage of RVs, boats, trailers, and related vehicles, along with traditional self-storage units.

Site Plan Details

  • 92 outdoor storage spaces
  • One-story office building
  • Pull-up mini storage and climate-controlled units (permitted by right)
  • Vehicle storage limited to licensed and registered units

“The ancillary uses would allow for box trucks, moving vehicles or personal vehicles. They would need to be licensed and registered vehicles,” said Erik Kramer, Marion County planner.

Conditions and Concerns

  • All commercial activity must occur within enclosed buildings
  • County code requires an opaque screen to block views from incompatible properties
  • Lighting concerns and potential glare impacts were noted by staff
  • No residential use is permitted or proposed
  • Permit recommended to run with the property, without time-based expiration

Surrounding Area

  • Located within the urban growth boundary and secondary springs protection zone
  • Falls inside the Belleview utilities service area
  • Neighboring subdivisions include Belleview Oaks Unit 2 and the approved Belleview East Highlands PUD, which will bring additional residential development nearby

The site remains undeveloped since the closure of the Elks Lodge and has not been subdivided. Staff supports the permit with the recommended conditions in place.

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