How Snellville Handles Accessory Structures: A Practical Guide

Snellville maintains 105 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with accessory structures. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Snellville falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

ADU Rules

Accessory dwelling units are not broadly permitted in Snellville's single-family zones (R-100, R-75). GA has no ADU mandate. Second kitchens or in-law suites allowed only as attached additions meeting single-family standards.

Key details: Detached ADUs: Not permitted in R-100/R-75. In-law Suites: Attached only, shared utilities. Multi-family: RM district only. State Law: No GA ADU preemption.

Unpermitted second unit: stop-work, $500-$1,000/day, removal order.

This is one of the stricter rules in Snellville's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Tiny Homes

Tiny homes on foundations must meet the GA Residential Code and Snellville minimum dwelling size standards. Tiny homes on wheels (RVs/park models) not permitted as permanent residences in Snellville.

Key details: On Foundation: Must meet district minimum size. On Wheels: Not permitted as residence. R-100 Minimum: ~1,400-1,500 sq ft typical. Communities: Requires PUD/RM rezoning.

Using RV as residence: $500+ citation, removal order.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Snellville actively enforces its tiny homes requirements.

Garage Conversions

Garage conversions in Snellville require a building permit and must maintain required off-street parking. Converting to a separate living unit is not permitted in single-family districts.

Key details: Permit: Building, electrical, HVAC required. Parking Replacement: 2 off-street spaces required. Egress: Required in new bedrooms. Separate Unit: Not permitted in R zones.

Unpermitted conversion: double permit fees, cannot legally be occupied, resale disclosure issues.

Compared to other cities, Snellville takes a harder line on garage conversions. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Carport Rules

Carports in Snellville require a building permit and must meet accessory structure setbacks. Typically attached carports follow principal structure setbacks; detached carports follow accessory setbacks.

Key details: Permit: Required for all carports. Attached Setback: Matches primary structure. Detached Setback: 5 ft side/rear, rear yard only. Anchoring: 105 mph wind load.

Unpermitted carport: removal order if in setback; $150-$500 citation.

Shed Rules

Sheds 200 sq ft or larger require a Snellville building permit. All sheds must meet accessory structure setbacks: typically 5 feet from side and rear property lines, behind the rear building line.

Key details: Permit Threshold: 200 sq ft or larger. Setback: 5 ft side/rear typical. Height: 15 ft max. Location: Rear yard only, behind house.

Unpermitted shed: $150-$500 + removal if in setback.

The Bottom Line

Snellville is tougher than many cities when it comes to accessory structures. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Snellville, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Snellville can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.