Coffee County board grants variance to site double-wide trailer near Shipley Road pond

The Coffee County Board of Appeals voted April 16, 2026, to grant a variance allowing a property owner to place a double-wide trailer on land near a pond on Shipley Road after the applicant described limited placement options and the board reviewed setback and easement issues.

The applicant, Sarah Banks (S4), told the board she could put the trailer only in the area described because the remainder of the parcel is farmed and the barn and pond limit options. “It’s a double wide trailer. It’s about the only place I can put it,” Banks said. Board members examined the site relative to a barn and a nearby electrical easement and noted local code requires placement in front of the principal building unless a variance is granted.

Committee member (S2) moved to approve the variance using the standard variance criteria for this code section (D3); Committee member (S3) seconded the motion. After brief discussion about the required 10-foot clearance in front of the barn and a nearby utility pole, the board voted in favor with no recorded opposition.

Chair (S1) told Banks to meet county staff the next day to complete the required paperwork and permitting steps. “What you need to do is come in tomorrow and talk to Kurt or Cindy, and they'll get you started down the right track,” the Chair said.

The board’s action allows the applicant to proceed with permit steps, subject to staff follow-up to document the placement and any conditions arising from the electrical easement or other county requirements.