Development Code

The City regulates the use and development of land through a codified set of ordinances known as the Development Code and Technical Manual. These ordinances help the City regulate permitted uses, stormwater management, tree conservation, stream buffers, public facilities including roads, and more.

Development Code Update

Process Timeline

This is a timeline graphic for the Development Code Draft process. For additional information, please email nsasidharan@sandyspringsga.gov

Important Dates at City Hall

Planning Commission Public Hearing (Session Completed on November 13, 2023)
Mayor & City Council Public Hearing (Session Completed on December 5, 2023)

About the Development Code Update

The development code is a set of regulations that govern land use and the built environment within the city. It includes rules about building height, lot size, building setbacks, land uses, and the zones where they are most appropriate, and many other development characteristics.

The development code is updated periodically to reflect changes in the community and to ensure that it is consistent with the city's goals for growth and development. The subject major update is a critical component of the Community Work Program in The Next Ten, the City’s Comprehensive Plan, which called for a comprehensive review of the Development Code. The proposed modifications to the Development Code will be presented to the Planning Commission in November for its recommendation to the City Council. The City Council is expected to consider the proposed modifications in December.

Click here for the summary of the Comprehensive Development Code Review presented to the City Council on September 19, 2023.

Public Input

Public input is essential to the Development Code update process. By providing feedback, residents can help to ensure that the Development Code reflects their values and priorities.

There were several ways the to provide feedback on the proposed Development Code modifications:

A Public Information Open House was held on September 26 to discuss proposed updates to the Development Code.
Presentation slides
Display Boards
Video recording
A Planning Commission Meeting was held on Monday, November 13.
A City Council Meeting was held on Tuesday, December 5.