Panel approves variance for front-yard accessory structure at 3681 Youngs Mill Road with tree-line buffer

The Troup County Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Commission on a voice vote approved a special-exception variance to allow a 48-by-30-foot accessory structure in the front yard of 3681 Youngs Mill Road, contingent on preserving the existing tree line and installing a screening buffer that meets staff standards.

Staff told the board the 4.88-acre parcel is zoned Lakeside Residential and that front-yard setbacks in that district are 100 feet; the applicant’s site plan shows the proposed building approximately 105 feet from the front property line and roughly 92 feet from the primary residence. In explaining the request, applicant George Duis said "Most of the property is not usable because of flood plain," and described a septic field and steep slopes that would make relocating the building behind the house costly.

Board members questioned contour accuracy and sight lines and asked about plant sizes and timing for screening. Staff noted the county ordinance includes an approved species list and said screening could be required as a condition, with planting sizes in the 6-to-8-foot range at installation and expected growth over the following one to two years. A committee member moved to approve the variance subject to keeping the existing tree line or installing an additional 48-foot buffer meeting staff screening requirements; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.

Next steps: the variance requires that the accessory structure be constructed substantially in accordance with the submitted site plan and that any significant deviation could lead to revocation and enforcement. The board did not record a roll-call tally in the minutes; the approval was taken by voice vote.