The Cobb County Board of Zoning Appeals on Aug. 13 held variance case v97, which would alter the location/configuration of an accessory pool cabana and connect it to an approved addition. The applicant’s representative said the owner wants to reorient and tie a covered pool cabana to previously approved work to accommodate a golf simulator and increase privacy; neighbors and board members raised concerns about noise and speaker placement.

Why it matters: The proposed change affects accessory-structure placement relative to neighbors and could change noise patterns from outdoor speakers and an indoor golf simulator. The board sought more detailed plans, including possible acoustical controls, before approving a change to an already approved variance.

Applicant presentation: Jamie Franks, representing the homeowner, said the owner originally received a variance earlier in the year and later decided to reconfigure the accessory structure so the cabana would connect to the house and allow a golf simulator and covered amenity area. Franks described the cabana as an open cabana with a bathroom and pool equipment; he said the change is intended to improve privacy and functionality.

Neighbor and board concerns: Board members referenced a prior neighbor letter about noise and requested more specifics on the final design and sound mitigation. One board member suggested the applicant consider a sound expert to review speaker angles and system design. The applicant said the design team was still finalizing details and expected to have clearer plans in the coming days.

Board action: The board voted to hold the application for 30 days to allow the applicant to finalize a design that addresses neighbors’ noise concerns, return with visuals, and, if possible, include sound-mitigation measures or an acoustical evaluation. The motion carried after a second; the applicant was invited to coordinate with district staff and to return with more complete drawings and, if applicable, a sound evaluation.

Next steps: Applicant to meet with designers and the district commissioner or staff to refine the plan and return to the board in 30 days with clearer visuals and any proposed sound mitigation.