“We established this temporary variance to help homeowners who are still trying to recover from Hurricane Helene,” says Georgia Henderson, Community Development Director. “With this policy, we hope to balance the rights of property owners while maintaining development standards, zoning, and integrity of neighborhoods.”
Rebuilding of the homes under this variance will have to meet the following conditions:
- Rebuilding on Original Foundations – Homeowners will be permitted to rebuild their homes on the original foundation, maintaining the same footprint as the pre-disaster structure. Any significant deviation from the original footprint will not be allowed, ensuring consistency with the property’s original layout.
- Utilization of Original Space: The home must fully utilize the original space and design parameters of the destroyed structure. Rebuilding efforts that fail to use the entire original footprint will not be allowed.
- Compliance with Current Codes for Deviations: Any newly added structures, extensions, or accessory buildings that were not a part of the original home must fully comply with current city building and zoning codes. This will ensure that all new construction aligns with safety, environmental, and aesthetic standards established by the city.
- Permitting and Oversight: Rebuilding efforts will require city approval and permitting to ensure adherence to this policy under applicable requirements. Inspections will be conducted at various stages of reconstruction to ensure compliance.
Property owners interested in the temporary variance should download an application from the city’s website (www.cityofdouglasga.gov) or visit the Building Inspections Division at City Hall, located at 302 S. Madison Avenue.