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Council hears two commercial variance requests: dumpster enclosure at 3600 American Drive and Gala's Pizza patio and sign variance
Summary
Planning staff recommended approval of a variance to allow a dumpster enclosure on the American Way frontage of a 3600 American Drive commercial lot because site layout prevents rear access; staff also recommended conditionally approving Gala's Pizzapatio enclosure that would render a legally nonconforming pole sign into a roof sign, with approval conditioned on provided elevations.
The Chamblee city planning staff presented two separate variance requests Tuesday and recommended approval in both cases with conditions.
For PZ 20261546 (3600 American Drive), Planning and Development Director Matt Adams said staff recommended a variance to allow a dumpster and enclosure to be located in the American Way side yard because the 1970s-era building orientation and an existing concrete pad make the frontage the only feasible location that preserves maneuverability for construction and service trucks. "Because the existing structure was built in the 1970s and is situated on the lot in such a way, the American Way frontage is the only feasible location for the dumpster," Adams said. Applicant Starsha Parton identified herself and explained the site layout prevents trucks from safely accessing the back of the property.
The council asked about materials; staff said wood is an allowable material per a 2021 ordinance change and that council could add a condition limiting materials if desired.
On PZ 20261637 (4849 Peachtree Road), Adams explained that Gala's Pizza proposes to enclose an existing outdoor seating area to create a four-season patio. The enclosure alone would comply with the UDO but enclosing the patio would convert an existing legally nonconforming pole sign into a roof sign, and roof signs are not permitted without a variance. Staff recommended approval conditioned on elevations received by the planning department on Feb. 17, 2026. Owner Anthony Donardo said the patio would make a community-oriented space usable year-round and help accommodate groups such as ball teams.
Both items were presented and had proponents speak in favor; the Gala's Pizza item in particular included owner testimony about community benefit. The American Drive dumpster item will remain on the agenda for a later vote and staff told council they could include material conditions if they wished.
What happens next: The American Drive dumpster enclosure will return later in the agenda for potential council conditions or vote; the Gala's Pizza item was presented with staff conditioning and will proceed through the hearing process.
