Tiny houses in Atlanta? Council considering revising city codes

ajc.com

Credit: Contributed by FYI

Credit: Contributed by FYI

An Atlanta City Council member is calling for a re-examination of the city's policies around tiny houses and micro-living — and how city codes may be revised to make Atlanta "friendlier" to such construction.

Councilman Kwanza Hall introduced a resolution at the council's July 6 meeting directing the Department of Planning and Community Development to study the city's ordinances, according to a news release. Specifically: Do they allow for construction of tiny houses and micro-unit apartments?

And if they don't, Hall's resolution would direct the department to explore "how the code can be revised to make the city more friendly to smaller housing alternatives," according to the release.

The department's study would examine city, county and state regulations. The department would issue its recommendation within 180 days of adoption.

The legislation was referred to the Council’s Community Development and Human Resource Committee.

Nationwide, the tiny living movement has continued to gain traction and popular interest. A similar movement is being built in Georgia, though locals say it lags behind larger movements in other states.

"Atlantans want to see the city embrace a broad spectrum of housing options,” Hall said in the release. “Many cities across the U.S. are experiencing increased demand for apartments and homes that occupy a smaller footprint than traditional residences. These alternatives are typically less expensive than traditional apartments and homes.

"My legislation will help us identify impediments and opportunities for a new generation of city residents who are looking for new residential living alternatives.”