Lot Coverage Limits: Alpharetta vs Sandy Springs
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Alpharetta, GA and Sandy Springs, GA?
Alpharetta and Sandy Springs have similar restriction levels.
Alpharetta, GA
Fulton County
Alpharetta's Unified Development Code (Article II — Use of Land and Structures) sets maximum lot coverage and impervious surface limits by zoning district. In the R-15 single-family residential district, the maximum impervious surface is 35% of the lot. The city also requires soil-infiltration testing for any new project in the Residential Overlay District that adds 1,000 to 5,000 square feet of impervious area.
View full Alpharetta rules →Sandy Springs, GA
Fulton County
Sandy Springs limits the percentage of a lot that can be covered by impervious surfaces and structures. Residential lots typically allow 40 to 60% coverage.
View full Sandy Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Alpharetta | Sandy Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | UDC Article II, Sec. 2.3 | - |
| R-15 Max Impervious | 35% of lot | - |
| Overlay Trigger | 1,000-5,000 sq ft new impervious | - |
| Variance Authority | Board of Adjustment | - |
| Residential Limit | - | 40 to 60% typical |
| Includes | - | Buildings, driveways, patios |
| Permeable Pavers | - | May get partial credit |
| Topic | - | Lot Coverage |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Alpharetta FAQ
What's the maximum lot coverage in Alpharetta's R-15 zone?
35% impervious surface, under the Alpharetta Unified Development Code Article II development standards. The Board of Adjustment can grant variances; one approved increase was to 40%.
When does the Residential Overlay District trigger extra requirements?
Projects adding between 1,000 and 5,000 square feet of new impervious area in the Residential Overlay District require soils infiltration testing prior to permit issuance.
Sandy Springs FAQ
What counts as lot coverage?
All impervious surfaces: buildings, garages, driveways, patios, and walkways. Permeable pavers may be partially excluded.
How do I calculate my lot coverage?
Divide total impervious surface area by total lot area. Check Sandy Springs zoning for your district’s maximum.
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