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Glynn County approves setback variance to legalize accessory dwelling at 500 Maple Street
Summary
Glynn County officials approved a variance allowing reduced front and right-yard setbacks at 500 Maple Street, legalizing an existing detached accessory dwelling provided the structure meets zoning and building codes and required permits are obtained.
Glynn County officials approved a zoning variance for 500 Maple Street that will reduce the front and right-yard setbacks to bring an existing detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) into compliance, county staff said.
Planner Niecy Carroll of Glynn County Planning told the meeting that public records show the principal residence was built in 1977 and that staff’s research indicates the detached accessory structure was constructed without a permit between 2000 and 2008 and is currently being used as an ADU. "Staff recommends approval of ZV 26-11 subject to the following condition, that the existing structure be made compliant with all applicable zoning and building codes," Carroll said.
The variance request seeks to reduce the front setback (staff noted the existing front measurement at about 19.8 feet) and the right-yard setback by approximately 1.5 feet so the structure meets the county’s current zoning configuration for the R-6 single-family residential district. County staff explained that because the lot is under one acre, an ADU would be compliant only if it is connected to the main residence by a breezeway under current rules.
John Farnsworth of the building department said the structure likely was built without permits and recommended further evaluation. "A recommendation will probably be made for an engineer to do a thorough walkthrough and evaluation of the structure to quantify, qualify, and verify that everything within the structure itself meet all current code conditions," Farnsworth said. He emphasized life-safety as the primary concern.
David Lee, an authorized agent for the property seller, said the owners intend to obtain the necessary building permits and make repairs, including replacing Federal Pacific electrical panels, redoing the roof, updating electrical work and making cosmetic repairs. "We will be submitting building permits for approval through Glynn County," Lee said, adding the parties would expose areas as needed to facilitate inspections.
No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. After discussion, a committee member moved to approve ZV 2611500 per staff recommendation; the motion passed (vote tally not specified). The Chair cautioned the applicants to remain within the approved footprint and to contact the building department if unexpected conditions arise during renovation.
Staff also noted a recent ordinance change requiring surveys to be dated within two years; staff said the ordinance text is available online. The next steps for the property owners are to finalize a dated survey, obtain required building permits, and complete any engineering evaluations or repairs necessary to meet applicable zoning and building codes.
