Commission recommends approval of Perfect Touch Luxe spa variance, citing distinct services

The Alpharetta Planning Commission on Aug. 7 recommended approval of a conditional use and variance allowing Perfect Touch Luxe to offer “spa services” at 1115 Upper Hembree Road, Suite B, despite a Unified Development Code separation requirement intended to keep comparable spa businesses at least 2,000 feet apart.

Planning staff told commissioners the applicant will operate a holistic wellness center by appointment only, offering aromatherapy, guided meditation, breath‑work sessions, massage therapy, wellness workshops and similar programs. Staff noted the building already houses Far East Beauty, which received conditional‑use approval for spa services in 2021; that business focuses on aesthetics (facials, waxing and cosmetic services) and, according to staff, does not provide full‑body massage.

Michael (Planning staff) told the commission the UDC does not include a specific “health and wellness center” use category; the applicant’s mix of services most closely matches the code’s spa‑services category, so a variance to the 2,000‑foot separation was required. Staff recommended the variance on the basis that the two businesses do not provide overlapping services and therefore are not comparable under the code’s intent.

Applicant Shakira Diggs told the commission Perfect Touch Luxe will emphasize intentional wellness and education rather than cosmetic treatments, and she said she had discussed the proposed services with the Far East Beauty owner, who did not object. Diggs said services will focus on mental and physical health rather than aesthetics and that the operation will be low‑impact.

Commissioners questioned how future service changes would be controlled. Michael said Condition 3 limits the approved use to the specific services listed in the application; if the applicant later seeks to add services not on that list, she must return to the city and obtain a change in conditions through the public hearing process. Michael also confirmed the business would need a city business license and spa/massage licensing, and that those licenses include inspections and compliance checks.

After discussion about precedent and the reason for the separation rule, one commissioner said staff had demonstrated a clear distinction between the applicant’s holistic wellness services and the existing spa’s aesthetic services. The commission approved the conditional use and variance, forwarding the matter to City Council on Aug. 25.

Staff recommended five conditions, including limiting the approved space to 2,000 square feet, restricting the tenant to Perfect Touch Luxe (no subleasing), limiting services to the list provided in the application, setting hours to Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m., and prohibiting lighted window trim or window signage. No public speakers registered in favor or opposition at the hearing.