Board approves variance to split Shenandoah Drive duplex into two rental units, conditions water separation

The Oconee County Board of Zoning Appeals on July 27 approved variance VA26000003 to permit splitting an existing duplex at 111 and 113 Shenandoah Drive (TMS 31600-01-164) into two separate rental units, subject to confirmation that the water service has been split and verified by the building inspector.

Sherry Howard, who said she represents property owner Elaine Bruno, told the board the owner intends to rent both units and that the building was constructed with a firewall and other measures intended to separate the residences. "My name is Sherry Howard, and I represent Elaine Bruno," she said during the applicant presentation.

Building staff reported the structure was permitted as a duplex but appears to have been built to a townhome standard with a two-hour firewall. Staff told the board that electricity and sewer are already separate but that the water remained on a single meter and must be split before final approval. As staff explained, "to the best of our knowledge, it was built with a 2 hour separation wall," and the board required proof that the water tap was separated and confirmed by inspection before the variance is finalized.

The board moved through the four required variance criteria with motions and seconds on each point and then approved the variance unanimously with the stated condition. Board chair announced the approval and staff said the applicant would receive a letter within a few days outlining the condition and next steps.