Zoning regulations are the rules that determine how parcels of land may be used or developed.  When owners want to use or develop property in a manner that does not conform to the current zoning district regulations, they must apply for a change of zoning or what is commonly described as a 'Rezoning'.

To obtain City support, the applicant should demonstrate that the proposed rezoning is consistent with the City of Snellville Comprehensive Plan and benefits the community as a whole.  Zoning applications are considered by the Planning and Development Department and Planning Commission and decided by the Mayor and Council.  Some applications may also require a Future Land Use Map amendment, which can be processed in conjunction with a rezoning request.

​Rezoning Process

The Snellville Board of Zoning Appeals is a group of Citizens appointed by the Mayor to serve a four-year post and are empowered to hear and decide variances and appeals.  A variance is a waiver from the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, Development Regulations, or Buffer, Landscape and Tree Ordinance, where specific enforcement would result in unnecessary hardship.  Seeking a variance is asking for something special that goes beyond the established limits or restrictions of the City of Snellville codes and regulations.

An appeal may be filed where it is alleged that there is error in any order, requirement, decision or determination made by the Planning and Development Director and may be requested by any person aggrieved or affected by a decision of the Planning and Development Director.  Appeals must be filed within 30-days after such decision is made by filing the application of appeal in the Department of Planning and Development. Recourse from the decisions of the Board of Appeals shall be to the Gwinnett Superior Court.

Variance & Appeal Process

The Zoning Ordinance identifies certain land uses which do not precisely fit into existing zones, but may be allowed upon approval of a conditional use permit (CUP).  A conditional use permit allows the City to consider uses which may be essential or desirable, but which are not allowed as a matter of right within a zoning district, through a public hearing process.  An application for a conditional use permit may be submitted at the same time as a rezoning application and land use plan amendment application should the use require a zoning map amendment and land use map amendment, and which is processed in considered in conjunction with these applications.

Conditional Use Permit Process