Duplex + ADUs Development

[David Robertson]

Hi, 

I am attempting to develop something similar to this on an R-5 lot in Atlanta. The zoning doesn't allow for more than two dwelling units per lot. 

Right now the lot is right at 10,000 SF. Is that interior lot line assumed when a duplex is built, or is some kind of formal process needed?

Has anyone seen or done something similar? 

[Azeez K.]

Hi @David Robertson

I don't think the city would allow two duplex and ADUs development like the way you are describing in the image above. The city does not allow more than 2 dwellings per lot but I am very curious if this is something the city would allow. Lately, city has been more flexible for high density zoning. However, this would be putting 2 attached units in front and 2 attached units at the back so don't think that would fly but if it does that would be fantastic. I would start by speaking with someone in the zoning department. I built an ADU where the front house was technically a Triplex and back house was an ADU but the ADU couldn't be more than X% of the total area of the main house. Here is a post https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44/topics/1080563-build... that shows some before after

I am super curious and would be interested to hear on your findings. I have the zoning department email if you want and they are pretty quick to respond. However, it would be best to talk to someone in Zoning. Good Luck and much success.

[Azeez K.]

Hi @David Robertson

I don't think the city would allow two duplex and ADUs development like the way you are describing in the image above. The city does not allow more than 2 dwellings per lot but I am very curious if this is something the city would allow. Lately, city has been more flexible for high density zoning. However, this would be putting 2 attached units in front and 2 attached units at the back so don't think that would fly but if it does that would be fantastic. I would start by speaking with someone in the zoning department. I built an ADU where the front house was technically a Triplex and back house was an ADU but the ADU couldn't be more than X% of the total area of the main house. Here is a post https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44/topics/1080563-build... that shows some before after

I am super curious and would be interested to hear on your findings. I have the zoning department email if you want and they are pretty quick to respond. However, it would be best to talk to someone in Zoning. Good Luck and much success.

[Azeez K.]

Hi @D

[David Robertson]

I spoke with the planner on duty, and the trick is to first apply for a Zero Lot Line (ZLL) configuration. Once that is approved you can submit for permits given that all of the other density metrics are met. The lot we are working with is around 10K SF, so we should be able to get a sizeable duplex with ADUs. Obviously the ADUs are capped at 750 SF.

My client and I are pursuing this option now! I will keep you posted. 

Quote from @Azeez K.:

Hi @David Robertson

I don't think the city would allow two duplex and ADUs development like the way you are describing in the image above. The city does not allow more than 2 dwellings per lot but I am very curious if this is something the city would allow. Lately, city has been more flexible for high density zoning. However, this would be putting 2 attached units in front and 2 attached units at the back so don't think that would fly but if it does that would be fantastic. I would start by speaking with someone in the zoning department. I built an ADU where the front house was technically a Triplex and back house was an ADU but the ADU couldn't be more than X% of the total area of the main house. Here is a post https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/44/topics/1080563-build... that shows some before after

I am super curious and would be interested to hear on your findings. I have the zoning department email if you want and they are pretty quick to respond. However, it would be best to talk to someone in Zoning. Good Luck and much success.

[Emily Beatty]

How did this turn out for you@David Robertson? I am considering exploring converting a separate 2 car garage in the back of a duplex into an ADU. The lot is big enough to where I may be able to make it a legal triplex but I'd want to explore both options. Any input @Azeez K.? 

[Azeez K.]

Hi@Emily Beatty

First thing check out the current zoning you can use Maps and GIS (Geographic Information System) Atlanta https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planni...

see if it allows for high density if so then you should be able to add. However, best to call zoning and verify if what you are doing is possible. Ideally call between 10-2 pm cuz the city planners should be in the office (lol). Feel free to dm me if you have any questions

[David Robertson]

Quote from @Emily Beatty:

How did this turn out for you@David Robertson? I am considering exploring converting a separate 2 car garage in the back of a duplex into an ADU. The lot is big enough to where I may be able to make it a legal triplex but I'd want to explore both options. Any input @Azeez K.? 

 We ended up not going forward with that particular project. I'm happy to help decipher ATL zoning if need be.