https://baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2026/07/31/madeira-beach-researching-temporary-paid-parking-lots-on-storm-damaged-properties
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MADEIRA BEACH, Fla. – Nearly two years after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, some Madeira Beach property owners are still trying to figure out what comes next for their now empty lots.
For some, that means finding a temporary use for vacant lots while they work through demolition, permitting and rebuilding.
Mike Wyckoff, a longtime real estate broker and Madeira Beach resident, owns multiple properties in the beach community, including a lot along Gulf Boulevard where his office once stood.
His former office was lifted off its foundation during Hurricane Helene’s storm surge in 2024. After demolition, Wyckoff said the property sat empty for about a year.
That changed in January, when a parking company approached him about leasing the space and sharing revenue from a paid parking operation.
“Nobody is getting rich off of parking on a space with 18 spaces,” said Wyckoff. “But it does offset the cost and you know, it has been a welcome relief financially.”
But after a complaint was filed, Wyckoff said he received a letter from the city saying the lot was in violation of current codes.
Paid parking lots are allowed in some cases under current zoning, such as when they serve an associated business like a nearby restaurant. However, standalone paid parking lots are not currently permitted in the same way.
Property owners like Wyckoff could face fines of $250 per day if they continue operating outside the code.
Wyckoff and other property owners recently asked Madeira Beach commissioners to consider allowing temporary standalone paid parking lots. Commissioners have directed city staff to look into the issue.
“This is the beginning of the process,” said Bill Logan, the city’s community communications officer. “It’s going to go on for a while, and it’s going to have to because we want robust community involvement. We want the businesses to be able to weigh in, and we want to make sure we get this right.”
Some local business owners say additional parking is needed.
Jonathan Olejnik, owner of Corner Kitchen and Coffee on Gulf Boulevard, said parking has long been a challenge in Madeira Beach.
“It’s always been an issue, and it’s just getting more and more expensive and harder to find spots,” Olejnik said.
His business has an on-site lot, but it is shared with a condo building, meaning some customers have to find parking elsewhere.
“Will I see those customers? I don’t know,” Olejnik said. “Not everyone wants to park a block or two down the road to walk here.”
For now, property owners and business owners are waiting to see whether the city will create a legal path for temporary paid parking lots.
The next workshop to discuss the issue is scheduled for Aug. 26 at 4 p.m. at Madeira Beach City Hall.
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