As reported by Atlanta Civic Circle, Atlanta City Councilmember Marci Collier Overstreet is revising her proposed legislation that would have required special-use permits for tiny homes under 750 square feet in most residential areas. The initial goal was to protect single-family neighborhoods, but urbanist groups, including Abundant Housing Atlanta, raised concerns that the ordinance would create additional barriers to affordable housing development.
In response to this feedback, Overstreet stated that she aims to craft legislation that addresses housing issues while providing tangible benefits to the city. This move comes as Atlanta is also working on updating its outdated zoning code, which currently limits residential options primarily to conventional single-family homes.
In contrast, neighboring DeKalb County has embraced a more progressive approach with its “Cottage Court Ordinance,” which facilitates the development of smaller homes on smaller lots to increase affordable housing stock. The outcome of Overstreet’s revised legislation will be pivotal in shaping Atlanta’s approach to affordable housing and urban development.
Citations:
[1] https://atlantaciviccircle.org/2024/01/26/atlanta-councilmember-rethinks-restrictions-on-tiny-homes/