Athens Planning Board approves sign variances for Raising Cane's at Lone Star Building

On May 13, 2025, the Athens Board of Zoning Appeals convened to discuss significant zoning issues affecting local properties, particularly focusing on parking requirements and signage variances. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing community needs with zoning regulations in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.

One of the primary discussions centered around a proposal to change a legal nonconforming four-unit owner-occupied residential dwelling into a non-owner-occupied dwelling in an R-1 zone at 75 South Shannon. Board members expressed concerns about parking, noting that the city’s parking requirements had been adjusted in recent years, reducing the number of required spaces for such properties. The conversation revealed a broader issue regarding the adequacy of parking in the area, especially as the neighborhood experiences an influx of residents who may rely on public transit or alternative transportation methods.

The board members acknowledged that the property in question is situated in a mixed-use neighborhood, adjacent to various commercial establishments, including a funeral home and a church. This context raised questions about the appropriateness of further nonconforming uses in an area that is already experiencing a blend of residential and commercial activities. Ultimately, the board voted in favor of the substitution, indicating a willingness to adapt zoning regulations to better reflect the current realities of the neighborhood.

In a separate case, the board reviewed a request for two projecting signs at the Lone Star Building on South Court Street, where the appellant sought variances to allow for signage that exceeds current size restrictions and the number of permitted signs. The discussion revealed the complexities of signage regulations, particularly for historic buildings that face additional restrictions. The appellant argued that the unique circumstances of the building, including its historical status and the absence of wall signage options, justified the need for two projecting signs to effectively direct customers to multiple entrances.

Board members deliberated on the implications of granting such variances, weighing the potential for increased visibility against the risk of setting a precedent for future signage requests from other businesses in the area. The conversation underscored the tension between preserving the historical character of the neighborhood and accommodating the needs of new businesses.

As the meeting concluded, board members recognized the importance of adapting zoning laws to meet the evolving needs of the community while maintaining the integrity of Athens’ unique character. The decisions made during this meeting reflect a broader trend in urban planning, where flexibility in zoning regulations is increasingly seen as essential to fostering vibrant, mixed-use neighborhoods. The board's actions signal a commitment to balancing growth with the preservation of community values, setting the stage for future discussions on zoning and development in Athens.