Development News for Sandy Springs, Georgia

Sandy Springs Board of Appeals Approves Variance for Accessory Dwelling Unit Despite Opposition

The Sandy Springs Board of Appeals heard a variance case, V2619, for 6565 Williamson Drive. The applicant, Sonia and Dwayne Tullson, sought to allow a major residential accessory structure (an accessory dwelling unit or ADU) to encroach into the 20ft side street setback, 35ft rear setback, and 75ft impervious surface setback, and exceed the minimum height requirement. Staff recommended approval with conditions, citing extreme hardship due to the property's significant environmental challenges, including a stream, buffers, and steep slopes, which severely limit buildable area. Several residents opposed the variance, arguing that the hardship was not extraordinary and that the proposed structure would introduce light and noise pollution and impact privacy. The board ultimately approved the variance with modified conditions, including a height limit of 20 feet, substantial similarity to the site plan, and the addition of a vegetative buffer.