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Planning board approves lot‑line variance to resolve septic and outbuilding placement for Giles property
Summary
The Spalding County Planning and Appeals Commission approved a variance to shift a shared property line for two undersized, adjoining lots owned by Claire Jean Giles so a septic drain field and outbuilding will be located on the same parcel as the house. The decision followed public testimony and dispute among family members.
The Spalding County Planning and Appeals Commission voted to approve application 2614B, a variance requested by Claire Jean Giles to shift a shared rear property line between two undersized lots so an existing septic drain field and an outbuilding would be located on the same parcel as Ms. Giles’ house.
Mr. Allen, staff, told the board the two parcels are legal, older lots of record that are each below the code’s minimum size and that the requested shift — roughly 0.17 acres — would resolve the septic and shed being on the parcel adjacent to the home. He warned the approval would not guarantee the vacated lot would become buildable because setback and septic constraints could still prevent a new dwelling there.
During the public hearing Claire Jean Giles said she and her family only recently learned the drain field and line were located on the neighboring parcel and asked the board to approve the adjustment to correct the situation. Elaine Arterburn, who identified herself as a family member and co‑owner, said the applicants are not planning additional development and are seeking the lot‑line change only to align structures and utilities with the residence.
Talmadge James Giles opposed the request, raising allegations that work had been done without permits and citing outstanding probate and ownership concerns. Commissioners and staff treated those claims as separate from the zoning question; Mr. Allen’s recommendation and the board’s discussion focused on code compliance and the practical effect of moving the line.
A board member moved to approve the variance and the motion passed by voice vote; the chair recorded no opposition. Staff said the variance is a standalone administrative action that does not proceed to another board and that the applicants must record a new survey and plat showing the revised lot line.
The decision resolves the immediate septic and outbuilding placement issue but does not change the underlying fact that the lots remain legally undersized and the now‑smaller lot may be unbuildable, staff cautioned.
