The developer of the Sneed Manor Subdivision, Mr. Bill Owen, has inquired about the possibility of a reduction in the required front yard setback, with the intent of providing a larger rear yard for the future homes to be constructed within the subdivision. The project is located on the south side of Old Smyrna Road and is zoned AR.
Staff has concluded this request merits further consideration, but only in certain specific circumstance. This issue was discussed with the City Commission during the October 20, 2016 agenda briefing. Based on the input received during that discussion, the attached ordinance would allow the Planning Commission to authorize a reduction of the front yard setback in the AR district to no less than 125 feet, only under the following circumstances:
- The affected lots would front an internal, local street only, as designated by Section 78-483 of the zoning ordinance;
- The internal, local street is not a through street that connects to adjacent properties.
Most properties with AR zoning front on arterial streets, with the largest concentration of AR-zoned land being along Old Smyrna Road. Other AR property fronts Franklin Road. The existing 175 foot setback requirement is intended to maintain the "view shed" and additional green space along more heavily traveled roads. The proposed zoning ordinance amendments are intended to maintain the existing setback requirements on any lots fronting arterial and collector roads while providing some setback flexibility along dead-end, internal streets within AR subdivisions.
A preliminary plan for the Sneed Manor Subdivision was approved by the Planning Commission on November 2, 2015. A revised plan was subsequently approved on July 5, 2016. The project is located along the south side of Old Smyrna Road and includes development of eight lots on approximately 31.4 acres of land. The project will be developed around the historic home. The home will be preserved and will be located on a lot that includes approximately 3.01 acres. Attached is a copy of the revised preliminary plan. Several of the building envelopes for the lots are long and narrow, which would support the developer's request. Given the size and value of the future homes that will be constructed on the lots, the developer desires to maximize the ability to create back yard living areas. The project is currently under construction.
If approved on first reading, the Planning Commission will review the proposed ordinance at its March 6, 2017 regular meeting and provide a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners. The public hearing is tentatively scheduled for March 13, 2017, with second and final reading scheduled for March 27, 2017.
Should you have any questions, or require additional information, please contact the Planning and Codes Director. |