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Board approves home-based residential design business at 1903 Burns Road with parking and signage limits
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals granted Richard Acree a special exception to operate a plans-only residential remodeling/design business from 1903 Burns Road, imposing conditions including no on-street parking in connection with the business, no signage, and city review for any expansion.
The North Augusta Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved on May 5 a special exception allowing Richard Acree to operate a home-based residential remodeling and design business at 1903 Burns Road, with four conditions restricting parking, signage and any future expansion of the business.
At the hearing, staff clarified the application covers preparation of plans and CAD drawings only, not construction work at the home. "There is no construction activity related to the business," Acree said, adding there would be no material storage or equipment on-site and occasional client visits would be accommodated in the driveway.
The board reviewed the 11 special-exception criteria in the North Augusta Development Code. Staff reported the use is administrative, low intensity, and compatible with the R-14 residential setting: client visits were estimated at "no more than two or three per month," parking could be accommodated on the driveway, and the proposal would not require additional public services or generate nuisances such as noise, glare, or hazardous materials.
Approval was granted with four conditions: no on-street parking allowed in connection with the operation of the business; the home occupation must be conducted entirely within the principal dwelling and not expand to accessory structures or outdoor areas; any expansion or change in the nature or intensity of the use shall require additional city review and approval; and no signage or advertising devices shall be permitted on the property.
A motion to approve was made and seconded; Jim Newman moved for approval and the board voted 4-0 in favor. The chair closed the hearing and congratulated the applicant.
Why it matters: The decision allows a resident to formalize a small home-based design business while preserving neighborhood character and limiting potential parking or signage impacts.
The board’s deliberations repeatedly referenced compliance with the North Augusta Development Code’s special-exception criteria and the city’s comprehensive plan.
