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Smyrna planning commission approves PUD amendment to allow small commercial suites inside multifamily complex
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a PUD amendment allowing limited nonresidential uses (small offices and personal services) within an existing multifamily PRD, subject to staff life-safety and fire-marshal requirements; commissioners stressed first-floor/common-area limits and a written State Fire Marshal approval for Phase 1 occupancy.
The Smyrna Planning Commission on Feb. 5 approved an amendment to a previously approved Planned Unit Development on Old Nashville Highway to allow small, nonresidential uses within multifamily buildings, including office-support and personal-service suites.
Staff planner Kevin told the commission the amendment would permit about a dozen narrowly defined nonresidential uses — primarily office-type and back-office support functions — in small units (roughly 100–300 square feet). He said staff’s primary concern was life-safety compliance: the Fire Marshal had approved Phase 2 uses in writing, but staff requested a written statement from the State Fire Marshal confirming that Phase 1’s already-constructed buildings are acceptable for the proposed commercial occupancy before leasing resumes.
During discussion commissioners emphasized limiting commercial activity to first-floor common areas rather than residential hallways, and noted that the developer has implemented key-card hallway access that reduces unescorted public traffic into residential corridors. Property representative John Blankenship confirmed existing tenants include a cell-phone repair service and a nail technician; he said leasing paused when staff raised concerns and that the owner is working with staff to conform to rules.
Commissioners also requested an occupancy inspection requirement and specific fire-safety upgrades as conditions before units may be rented for commercial uses. After discussion Commissioner Steve moved to approve the amendment with staff comments; the motion passed by voice vote.
The commission’s action does not change any building permits or substitute for required inspections or approvals from the fire authorities. Staff will seek a written Fire Marshal approval for Phase 1 nonresidential uses and require occupancy inspections that verify exit signage, extinguisher placement and other life-safety measures before the units may be occupied for commercial purposes.
The Planning Commission approved the amendment with staff conditions; the item will proceed as part of the development’s permitting process.
