Seminole County Clears Way For Major Flex-Industrial Project Near I-4

Seminole County commissioners have unanimously approved land-use and zoning changes for a new flex-industrial development in Sanford.

Pelican Industrial plans to develop the Sanford Commerce Center on approximately 17.23 acres south of Orange Boulevard, about a half-mile east of Oregon Street. The site borders Interstate 4, placing the project near one of Central Florida’s principal transportation corridors.

The development could contain as much as 144,000 square feet of commercial and industrial flex space. Its adaptable design is intended to accommodate multiple tenants and a range of business activities rather than a single warehouse occupant.

County approval included changing part of the property’s future land-use designation from commercial to industrial. The planned-development zoning was also amended to permit certain heavy-commercial and very-light-industrial uses throughout the site.

Pelican Industrial will retain several restrictions established under the property’s previous development approvals. The buildings will be limited to 35 feet in height, and uses such as automotive repair garages, lumber yards, service stations, paint and body shops and communication towers will remain prohibited.

The project’s proximity to homes west of the site prompted additional attention to compatibility. Plans call for a 25-foot landscaped buffer with a berm, along with a minimum 60-foot building setback along the western boundary. Loading-bay doors will not face the neighboring residential area.

County staff and the developer also reached an agreement on parking after the issue generated discussion during the planning process. The approved standard allows 1.25 parking spaces per 1,000 square feet while limiting retail activity to uses that support the property’s primary operations. Certain higher-traffic businesses will be prohibited or require additional county review.

Access is expected to be provided through an adjoining parcel connecting to Orange Boulevard. The developer will also be responsible for constructing part of a future sidewalk connection. Water and sewer capacity are available, although additional traffic and environmental studies may be required during final engineering.

The approval adds another potential employment center to the Sanford area while continuing the expansion of industrial development along Central Florida’s I-4 corridor.

Key Facts:

• Developer: Pelican Industrial
• Project: Sanford Commerce Center
• Maximum size: 144,000 square feet
• Site: Approximately 17.23 acres
• Location: South of Orange Boulevard near I-4 in Sanford
• Building-height limit: 35 feet
• Parking ratio: 1.25 spaces per 1,000 square feet
• County action: Unanimous approval on August 11, 2026
• Current status: Land-use amendment and rezoning approved

Source: Growthspotter