Filing Petitions

When proposed development in Sandy Springs falls outside of approved land uses, it is necessary to petition the City. These petitions include Comprehensive Plan Character Area Map Amendments, Zoning Map Amendments (Rezonings), Conditional Use Permits, and Variances. The Board of Appeals has the authority to review administrative decisions made by the Director that are appealed.

Comprehensive Plan Character Area Map Amendment

(Sec. 1.2.1, Article 11 of the Development Code)
A Comprehensive Plan Character Area Map Amendment is a request to amend the Comprehensive Plan. It is required prior to a Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning) where the proposed zoning is not allowed in the applicable Character Area. 

Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning) / Conditional Use Permit

(Sec. 1.1.9, Div. 6.7, Article 7, Article 11 of the Development Code)
A Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning) is a request to amend the Official Zoning Map from one zoning district to another, to change the boundaries of an existing zoning district, or to modify any existing condition of Rezoning. A Conditional Use Permit is a request to change or expand an existing use identified as a conditional use or expressly requiring a Conditional Use Permit. 

Variance 

(Sec. 6.6.2, Sec. 6.7.1, Sec. 8.3.18, Article 9, Sec. 10.2.2, Article 11 of the Development Code)
A Variance is a request for relief from the provisions of the Development Code.

Administrative Appeal 

(Article 9, Article 11 of the Development Code)
An Administrative Appeal allows an avenue to appeal an administrative decision made by the Director.

Zoning Certification

A Zoning Certification Letter is a document detailing the existing zoning and conditions of a property, usually for legal purposes.

Developments of Regional Impact

(Sec. 1.1.9, Sec. 11.2.4, Div. 12.2 of the Development Code) 
Developments of Regional Impact (DRIs) are large-scale projects likely to impact geographies and jurisdictions beyond the local jurisdiction in which they are located.

Associated Pages
Petitions Under Consideration
Planning Boards, Commissions and Community Meetings
Planning and Zoning Resources