West Palm Beach homeowners seek court order to remove part of new house

Lawsuit claims construction violates zoning rules on Washington Road

Feb. 1, 2026 at 3:15am

West Palm Beach homeowners have filed a lawsuit asking a judge to order the city to enforce its zoning rules and potentially remove part of a new house on Washington Road that they say violates side-yard setback requirements. The lawsuit seeks to halt further construction and block final approvals while a court reviews whether the city must take stronger enforcement action.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between residents and developers over zoning and construction rules in West Palm Beach's neighborhoods. The outcome could set a precedent for how the city handles similar disputes over setbacks and enforcement of its own regulations.

The details

The lawsuit, filed on January 27, claims the new house under construction on Washington Road encroaches on required side-yard setbacks. The homeowners are asking the court to force the city to take action, which could potentially include removing part of the new structure if it is found to violate zoning rules.

  • The lawsuit was filed on January 27, 2026.
  • The judge in the case will decide on whether to allow further construction or order removal of part of the house.

The players

West Palm Beach homeowners

A group of residents living near the new house construction on Washington Road who have filed a lawsuit against the city.

City of West Palm Beach

The local government entity responsible for enforcing zoning rules and regulations on construction projects in the city.

Developer

The party responsible for the new house construction on Washington Road that is at the center of the dispute.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow further construction or order the removal of part of the new house on Washington Road.

The takeaway

This case highlights ongoing tensions between residents and developers over zoning and construction rules in West Palm Beach's neighborhoods. The outcome could set a precedent for how the city handles similar disputes over setbacks and enforcement of its own regulations.