Board approves reduced western side setback for Vinings North Way property

The Smyrna License and Variance Board approved a variance to reduce the western side setback from 12 feet to 7 feet for the property at 3489 Vinings North Way, the board heard at its July meeting.

Caitlin Crow, land services development coordinator for Smyrna Community Development, said the lot is a little over half an acre in the Vinings North subdivision. Crow noted the applicant previously obtained a similar variance in 2015 that allowed an encroachment into the side setback; the current proposal expands a planned two‑car garage, adds a second level for living space, and shifts the garage slightly rearward to minimize the footprint while increasing interior area.

Crow said the closest neighboring structure is approximately 50 feet away and that a privacy fence with mature evergreen trees buffers the western side. Community Development recommended approval with three conditions: substantial compliance with the submitted site plan and elevations; gutters and downspouts must direct stormwater to remain wholly on the subject property without adversely impacting adjacent properties; and a building permit application for the rear accessory structure must be submitted before issuing the garage addition permit, with the certificate of completion for the garage held until the accessory structure permit is complete.

Renita Tiller spoke for applicant Keisha Chambers and confirmed the applicant would adhere to the three stipulations. No public opposition was recorded. A motion to approve variance V25-063 passed unanimously.

The board’s approval permits the reduced setback under the listed conditions; the stormwater and accessory‑structure sequencing conditions remain part of the permit compliance process.