Atlanta Consider Ordinance For Single Family Homes

Atlanta Neighborhood Planning Units (NPUs) are being asked to review a proposed ordinance by Councilwoman Marci Collier Overstreet that would require property owners to apply for and receive a “Special Use Permit” if they want to develop single-family homes with less than 750 square feet. Currently, these “smaller homes” are allowed in all Atlanta neighborhoods. 

This category of single-family homes is often used as part of a mixed development - think “missing middle” - and is a valuable tool for communities attempting to address housing shortages. Here’s an example of how the City of Decatur is employing this type of development.

Opponents of this ordinance believe the added layer of regulation and review will delay development, increase costs, and possibly prevent the inclusion of more affordable homes in certain neighborhoods. 

Proponents of the legislation believe this additional review and approval process will ensure any new development is compatible with existing neighborhood characteristics.

You can use this LINK to find out when the ordinance will be reviewed by your NPU. If you are an Atlanta resident this link will help you find the appropriate NPU for your neighborhood.