STANDARDS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
Dimensional standards for zoning districts are summarized in Tables 1, 2 and 3. See chapter 206 for additional standards. Should a standard in Table 1, 2, or 3 conflict with a standard in chapter 206, the chapter 206 standard shall apply.
TABLE 1: Development Standards for Residential Zoning Districts
TABLE 2: Development Standards for Non-Residential Zoning Districts
TABLE 3: Minimum Heated Floor Area (in square feet (sq. ft.)) for RM, MRU and MxD Zoning Districts
TABLE 4: Unit Development Standards for the MRU Zoning District
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. O-2021-44, § II, 9-28-2021; Ord. No. O-2025-28, § II(Exh. A), 11-10-2025)
(a)
No part of a lot's required yard, setback, buffer or open space shall be included as part of the yard, setback, buffer or open space required for another lot, except as specifically provided for herein.
(b)
Architectural features such as cornices, eaves, steps, gutters and fire escapes may project not more than three feet beyond any required setback line, except where such projections would obstruct access for service and/or emergency vehicles; provided, however, that canopies that extend from faces of buildings over sidewalks or entryways to shelter pedestrians shall be allowed to encroach into required setbacks so long as they are no closer than five feet to the street right-of-way line.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The side of a corner lot fronting on the street with the highest functional classification, according to the Rockdale County/City of Conyers Functional Classification System, shall be deemed to be the front of the lot. If both streets have the same functional classification, then the front of the lot shall be deemed to be the side with the least street frontage.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The height limitations of this article shall not apply to church spires, belfries, flag poles, monuments, cupolas, domes, ornamental towers or observation towers not intended for human occupancy, water towers, transmission towers, radio or television towers or antennas. These exclusions shall not apply in the vicinity of airports where Federal Aviation Administration runway protection zone standards shall apply. The height of telecommunication facilities is regulated in chapter 218, article IV.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Only one principal use shall be authorized on each lot except where otherwise specifically authorized within a mixed use zoning district including OBP, MUR, and MxD.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All fences, walls (landscape, screening and retaining) and hedges shall be subject to the following provisions:
(1)
Plastic slats shall be strictly prohibited.
(2)
Solid, opaque fences shall be strictly prohibited along any street right-of-way.
(3)
No opaque fence or landscape wall shall extend over 20 linear feet in length without a visual articulation, such as a column, setback or vegetative planting.
(4)
All fences shall be constructed with the finished side facing adjoining properties.
(5)
Prohibited materials of construction in all zoning districts shall include tires, scrap and sheet metal, plastic and fiberglass, medium density fiberboard and plywood, exposed common concrete block, junk or other discarded materials.
(6)
The height of a fence, landscape wall or hedge shall be measured from the normal finished grade to the highest point of said structure. Ornamental features such as columns and gates shall be allowed to exceed the maximum height of a fence or wall by no more than 18 inches. Ornamental features shall be distanced by a minimum of ten linear feet.
(7)
Maximum fence heights may be exceeded when the appearance of an even fence line is desired due to the slope of a property.
(8)
The director of planning and development may administratively approve an increase in the height of a fence, wall or hedge up to 150 percent of the maximum allowable height, as provided for in section 238-14.
(9)
Fences over seven feet in height are required to be permitted and inspected by the chief building official.
(10)
Retaining walls over four feet in height are required to be permitted and inspected by the chief building official.
Table of Fence, Wall and Hedge Requirements
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. 2007-09, § 21, 5-22-2007; Ord. No. 0-2013-14, § I, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 0-2015-05, § I, 5-12-2015)
(a)
In nonresidential zoning districts, sheet metal, vinyl siding, exposed common concrete block and similar materials shall not be permitted as exterior materials on sides of buildings facing any road. The exterior materials of the face of said buildings on the sides facing a road shall consist of glass, brick, stone, architectural concrete block, real stucco or similar building materials.
(b)
In residential zoning districts, sheet metal, vinyl siding, exposed common concrete block and similar materials shall not be permitted as exterior building materials on principal use structures except that soffits, gables and eaves may be finished in vinyl. Refer to section 218-7 accessory use standards for allowable exterior materials on accessory structures in residential zoning districts.
(c)
Attached and detached single-family and manufactured home building exterior finish materials.
(1)
Exterior building materials shall be primarily brick, stone, other masonry, glass, wood, or cementitious fiberboard. Vinyl shall be prohibited except for window frames (head, sill, jambs).
(2)
All exposed foundation walls, including a water table between 18 and 24 inches above finished grade on all sides of the building, shall be faced with brick, stone, or other masonry material. Where grade slopes toward a basement condition, the brick or stone water table shall extend along the sides and rear of the home to match the height established on the front façade.
(3)
All brick, stone, or other masonry shall be full- or half-depth. Simulated veneer panels are prohibited. Simulated masonry that are individually stacked or applied are acceptable.
(4)
Metal shall be permitted only as standing seam metal roofing or as an architectural accent comprising a maximum of ten percent of any one façade. Acceptable metal materials are limited to architectural metal panels, architectural metal cladding, metal mesh, and perforated metal. Examples of metal materials not permitted include but are not limited to stock PEMB metal skins commonly referred to as 'R-panel' and sheet metal systems with exposed fasteners, except as required for perforated metal.
(5)
Concrete masonry units are prohibited.
(6)
Industrial metal siding is prohibited.
(7)
Exposed plywood/OSB/pressed wood sheathing is prohibited.
(8)
Exposed neon, LED or other types of exposed bulb accent lighting is prohibited.
(9)
Equipment screens for ground mounted units shall have a finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade or provide vegetative landscape screening immediately around the units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(10)
Equipment screens for wall mounted units shall have finishes that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade, or vegetative landscape screening shall be provided immediately in front of the equipment units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(11)
Equipment screens for roof mounted units and appliances shall be a material consistent with the finish materials of the building façades. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(12)
Exterior color requirements.
a.
No more than three different exterior finish materials or applied wall colors may be used on any single building elevation. Additional colors or materials may be used for architectural elements such as balconies, foundations, decks, doors, patios, porches, and windows, and shall not count toward the maximum.
b.
Bright or fluorescent colors are prohibited.
(13)
As related to manufactured homes, these standards shall apply to all Class A, Class B, and Class C manufactured homes, as defined by this UDO.
(d)
Multifamily residential building exterior finish materials.
(1)
Exterior building materials shall be primarily brick, stone, other masonry, glass, wood, or cementitious fiberboard. Vinyl shall be prohibited except for window frames (head, sill, jambs).
(2)
Building walls shall incorporate brick, cast stone, and/or stone for at least 30 percent of the nonfenestration façade area in the first and second story. Exposed basement walls shall be considered part of the first story.
(3)
All brick, stone, or other masonry shall be full- or half-depth. Simulated veneer panels are prohibited. Simulated masonry that are individually stacked or applied are acceptable.
(4)
Metal shall be permitted only as standing seam metal roofing or as an architectural accent comprising a maximum of 20 percent of any one façade. Acceptable metal materials are limited to architectural metal panels, architectural metal cladding, metal mesh, and perforated metal. Examples of metal materials not permitted include but are not limited to stock PEMB metal skins commonly referred to as 'R-panel' and sheet metal systems with exposed fasteners, except as required for perforated metal.
(5)
Exposed concrete masonry units are prohibited.
(6)
Exposed plywood/OSB/pressed wood sheathing is prohibited.
(7)
Exposed neon, LED, or other types of exposed bulb accent lighting shall be prohibited, unless otherwise authorized by this UDO.
(8)
Equipment screens for ground mounted units shall have a finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade or provide vegetative landscape screening immediately around the units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(9)
Equipment screens for wall mounted units shall have finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade, or vegetative landscape screening shall be provided immediately in front of the equipment units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(10)
Equipment screens for roof mounted units and appliances shall be a material consistent with the finish materials of the building façades. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(11)
Exterior color requirements.
a.
No more than three different exterior finish materials or applied wall colors may be used on any single building elevation. Additional colors or materials may be used for architectural elements such as balconies, foundations, decks, doors, patios, porches, and windows, and shall not count toward the maximum.
b.
Bright or fluorescent colors are prohibited.
(e)
Where any requirement of this section conflicts with a standard or requirement expressly stated within a specific zoning or overlay district, the standard or requirement of the district shall govern. These provisions are intended to supplement, and not supersede, the applicable standards of the underlying zoning district unless otherwise expressly stated.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. 0-2007-14, § 4, 7-24-2007; Ord. No. 0-2013-12, § II, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. O-2025-23, 9-9-2025)
Tables 1 and 2 in section 214-1 show the minimum lot size, minimum lot width and maximum coverage for each land development district. However, notwithstanding said standards of the UDO, no lot shall have a lesser area than that approved by the Rockdale County Board of Health for safe drinking water and septic tank operation.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The minimum distance between buildings located on the same lot shall be 20 feet.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All uses requiring an occupation tax and business license pursuant to chapter 222 shall be located in a zoning district that permits such business activity in accordance with the Table of Uses in section 218-1.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Truck stops are prohibited. Furthermore, no adjoining or adjacent uses shall be physically connected or used so as to effectively create a truck stop.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All uses requiring an occupation tax and business license pursuant to the Code of Ordinances, chapter 22, shall comply with all such licensing requirements and shall not be considered lawful uses under Title 2 of the UDO if in violation of such licensing requirements.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Mailbox support structures erected within or adjacent to the right-of-way of any public street in unincorporated Rockdale County upon which the permanent posted speed limit exceeds 35 miles per hour shall consist of a single wooden post not exceeding four inches by four inches in size or a single metal pole not exceeding two inches in diameter.
(Ord. No. 2007-09, § 22, 5-22-2007)
(a)
Applicability.
(1)
The architectural standards established by this section shall apply to all zoning districts where residential uses are permitted.
(2)
As related to manufactured homes, these standards shall apply to all Class A, Class B, and Class C manufactured homes, as defined by this UDO.
(3)
Where any provision of this section conflicts with a standard or requirement expressly stated within a zoning or overlay district, the standard or requirement of the district shall control. The provisions of this section are intended to be supplementary to, and not in lieu of, applicable zoning district standards unless otherwise expressly stated.
(b)
Architectural design standards for multifamily residential buildings.
(1)
Design composition.
a.
Building designs shall incorporate a composition of features. Features include, but are not limited to, columns, windows, doors, balconies, pilasters, changing rooflines, plan offsets, cornice, porch entrances, tower elements, architectural patterns and texture, cupolas, and dormers. The maximum wall length without façade features shall not exceed 50 feet along street-facing façades.
b.
The appearance and materials of the rear and side walls shall be similar to and compatible with the front of the building.
c.
Building entrances shall be well-marked and identifiable from the building form.
d.
Common walls and common floors ceiling between units shall be constructed to meet a sound transmission coefficient (STC) rating of 50 or higher.
e.
Building designs with greater than three stories shall incorporate at least one significant color change, material change, or architectural feature on either the lower story or upper story. This requirement shall not apply to corner elements, entrance features, or other architectural projections, provided such features are clearly designed to emphasize building entrances or articulate a special architectural volume.
f.
Exterior burglar bars and steel roll-down curtains are prohibited.
g.
Ground mounted electrical, mechanical, and like utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
h.
Wall mounted electrical, mechanical, utility meters, and other utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
i.
All roof mounted equipment, such as mechanical units, vent hoods, communication devices, and/or other building system(s) equipment, shall be screened from view on all sides of the building. Roof screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(2)
Additional requirements applicable to multi-family residential buildings.
a.
Utility equipment and service meters are to be located away from high visibility and usage areas and effectively screened from view. The use of enclosed structures or interior access to utility equipment and meters is encouraged. The use of utility closets on exterior walls is prohibited.
b.
All roof vents, pipes, antennas, satellite dishes, and other roof equipment (except chimneys) shall be located on the rear elevations and, except for satellite dishes, be painted to match the color of the roof or, if technical considerations prevent installing satellite dishes on the rear elevation, then such equipment shall be installed where it will have minimal visual impact as seen from the street.
c.
Trash enclosures in amenity areas shall be screened from view on at least three sides by a solid wall or fence of at least six feet in height, and on the fourth side by a solid gate no less than five feet in height.
(c)
Architectural design standards for attached and detached residential buildings.
(1)
Design composition.
a.
Building designs shall incorporate a composition of features. Features include, but are not limited to, columns, architectural windows, balconies, pilasters, changing rooflines, cornice, ornamental roof brackets, porch entrances, tower elements, material patterns, cupolas, and dormers.
b.
Ground mounted electrical, mechanical, and like utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
c.
Wall mounted electrical, mechanical, utility meters, and other utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
d.
All roof mounted equipment, such as mechanical units, vent hoods, communication devices, and/or other building system(s) equipment, shall be screened from view on all sides of the building. Roof screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
e.
Garages on detached residential uses:
1.
Front-facing garage doors shall not take up more than 40 percent of the linear width of any street-facing façade.
2.
Front-facing garage doors shall be offset from the front façade by a minimum of five feet. This offset may be achieved through conditioned interior space or a porch.
f.
Garage doors on any residential building shall incorporate fenestration, decorative hardware, or other architectural detailing. Alternative treatments may be approved by the director of planning and development if they provide equivalent visual interest.
g.
The front façades shall have architectural modulation and detail that includes features such as varied materials and wall planes, varied roof forms and roof lines, balconies, porches, bay windows, varied window sizes and shapes, shutters, entrance doors, sidelights, pilasters, varied garage door designs, and other features to provide visual interest.
h.
Residential structures along existing public right-of-way shall require any side or rear façade that is visible from the public right-of-way to include the same exterior finish materials and similar landscaping as the front of the structure. In addition, it shall include windows and architectural features similar to the front façade, including, but not limited to, awnings, cornice work, edge detailing, or other decorative finish materials.
i.
Stoops and porches, where facing streets or open spaces, shall be a minimum of four feet deep.
j.
All chimneys and fireplace enclosures on the exterior of the façade shall extend to the ground and a minimum of three feet above the roof line.
(2)
Site requirements.
a.
Required driveway depths. Driveways shall be constructed to provide sufficient space for a standard passenger vehicle. Vehicles are prohibited from overhanging or obstructing any adjacent sidewalk or the public right-of-way.
b.
All sidewalks internal to a development shall be least five feet in width and shall be located on both sides of any public or private street.
c.
Utility requirements.
1.
Individual systems for water, fuel/gas, and HVAC shall be required for each unit.
2.
Individual metering shall be provided for water, electric, and fuel/gas utilities.
3.
Easements for utility lines shall be provided in the common ownership area where lateral service connections shall take place.
d.
All roof vents, pipes, antennas, satellite dishes, and other roof equipment (except chimneys) shall be located on the rear elevations and except for satellite dishes be painted to match the color of the roof or, if technical considerations prevent installing satellite dishes on the rear elevation, then such equipment shall be installed where it will have minimal visual impact as seen from the street.
e.
Trash enclosures in amenity areas shall be screened from view on at least three sides by a solid wall or fence of at least six feet in height, and on the fourth side by a solid gate no less than five feet in height.
(d)
Manufactured homes standards. Any replacement of a pre-existing manufactured home or mobile home with a new manufactured or mobile home shall be permitted in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 36-66-7 et seq. Furthermore, an existing, nonconforming industrialized home that was lawfully permitted prior to the effective date of this unified development ordinance may be replaced with a new manufactured home, notwithstanding the architectural bulk standards herein, provided the replacement is done so within 12 months of the date of removal of the existing mobile home and all conditions and requirements of O.C.G.A. § 36-66-7 et seq are met.
(Ord. No. O-2025-23, 9-9-2025)
STANDARDS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
Dimensional standards for zoning districts are summarized in Tables 1, 2 and 3. See chapter 206 for additional standards. Should a standard in Table 1, 2, or 3 conflict with a standard in chapter 206, the chapter 206 standard shall apply.
TABLE 1: Development Standards for Residential Zoning Districts
TABLE 2: Development Standards for Non-Residential Zoning Districts
TABLE 3: Minimum Heated Floor Area (in square feet (sq. ft.)) for RM, MRU and MxD Zoning Districts
TABLE 4: Unit Development Standards for the MRU Zoning District
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. O-2021-44, § II, 9-28-2021; Ord. No. O-2025-28, § II(Exh. A), 11-10-2025)
(a)
No part of a lot's required yard, setback, buffer or open space shall be included as part of the yard, setback, buffer or open space required for another lot, except as specifically provided for herein.
(b)
Architectural features such as cornices, eaves, steps, gutters and fire escapes may project not more than three feet beyond any required setback line, except where such projections would obstruct access for service and/or emergency vehicles; provided, however, that canopies that extend from faces of buildings over sidewalks or entryways to shelter pedestrians shall be allowed to encroach into required setbacks so long as they are no closer than five feet to the street right-of-way line.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The side of a corner lot fronting on the street with the highest functional classification, according to the Rockdale County/City of Conyers Functional Classification System, shall be deemed to be the front of the lot. If both streets have the same functional classification, then the front of the lot shall be deemed to be the side with the least street frontage.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The height limitations of this article shall not apply to church spires, belfries, flag poles, monuments, cupolas, domes, ornamental towers or observation towers not intended for human occupancy, water towers, transmission towers, radio or television towers or antennas. These exclusions shall not apply in the vicinity of airports where Federal Aviation Administration runway protection zone standards shall apply. The height of telecommunication facilities is regulated in chapter 218, article IV.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Only one principal use shall be authorized on each lot except where otherwise specifically authorized within a mixed use zoning district including OBP, MUR, and MxD.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All fences, walls (landscape, screening and retaining) and hedges shall be subject to the following provisions:
(1)
Plastic slats shall be strictly prohibited.
(2)
Solid, opaque fences shall be strictly prohibited along any street right-of-way.
(3)
No opaque fence or landscape wall shall extend over 20 linear feet in length without a visual articulation, such as a column, setback or vegetative planting.
(4)
All fences shall be constructed with the finished side facing adjoining properties.
(5)
Prohibited materials of construction in all zoning districts shall include tires, scrap and sheet metal, plastic and fiberglass, medium density fiberboard and plywood, exposed common concrete block, junk or other discarded materials.
(6)
The height of a fence, landscape wall or hedge shall be measured from the normal finished grade to the highest point of said structure. Ornamental features such as columns and gates shall be allowed to exceed the maximum height of a fence or wall by no more than 18 inches. Ornamental features shall be distanced by a minimum of ten linear feet.
(7)
Maximum fence heights may be exceeded when the appearance of an even fence line is desired due to the slope of a property.
(8)
The director of planning and development may administratively approve an increase in the height of a fence, wall or hedge up to 150 percent of the maximum allowable height, as provided for in section 238-14.
(9)
Fences over seven feet in height are required to be permitted and inspected by the chief building official.
(10)
Retaining walls over four feet in height are required to be permitted and inspected by the chief building official.
Table of Fence, Wall and Hedge Requirements
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. 2007-09, § 21, 5-22-2007; Ord. No. 0-2013-14, § I, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. 0-2015-05, § I, 5-12-2015)
(a)
In nonresidential zoning districts, sheet metal, vinyl siding, exposed common concrete block and similar materials shall not be permitted as exterior materials on sides of buildings facing any road. The exterior materials of the face of said buildings on the sides facing a road shall consist of glass, brick, stone, architectural concrete block, real stucco or similar building materials.
(b)
In residential zoning districts, sheet metal, vinyl siding, exposed common concrete block and similar materials shall not be permitted as exterior building materials on principal use structures except that soffits, gables and eaves may be finished in vinyl. Refer to section 218-7 accessory use standards for allowable exterior materials on accessory structures in residential zoning districts.
(c)
Attached and detached single-family and manufactured home building exterior finish materials.
(1)
Exterior building materials shall be primarily brick, stone, other masonry, glass, wood, or cementitious fiberboard. Vinyl shall be prohibited except for window frames (head, sill, jambs).
(2)
All exposed foundation walls, including a water table between 18 and 24 inches above finished grade on all sides of the building, shall be faced with brick, stone, or other masonry material. Where grade slopes toward a basement condition, the brick or stone water table shall extend along the sides and rear of the home to match the height established on the front façade.
(3)
All brick, stone, or other masonry shall be full- or half-depth. Simulated veneer panels are prohibited. Simulated masonry that are individually stacked or applied are acceptable.
(4)
Metal shall be permitted only as standing seam metal roofing or as an architectural accent comprising a maximum of ten percent of any one façade. Acceptable metal materials are limited to architectural metal panels, architectural metal cladding, metal mesh, and perforated metal. Examples of metal materials not permitted include but are not limited to stock PEMB metal skins commonly referred to as 'R-panel' and sheet metal systems with exposed fasteners, except as required for perforated metal.
(5)
Concrete masonry units are prohibited.
(6)
Industrial metal siding is prohibited.
(7)
Exposed plywood/OSB/pressed wood sheathing is prohibited.
(8)
Exposed neon, LED or other types of exposed bulb accent lighting is prohibited.
(9)
Equipment screens for ground mounted units shall have a finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade or provide vegetative landscape screening immediately around the units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(10)
Equipment screens for wall mounted units shall have finishes that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade, or vegetative landscape screening shall be provided immediately in front of the equipment units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(11)
Equipment screens for roof mounted units and appliances shall be a material consistent with the finish materials of the building façades. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(12)
Exterior color requirements.
a.
No more than three different exterior finish materials or applied wall colors may be used on any single building elevation. Additional colors or materials may be used for architectural elements such as balconies, foundations, decks, doors, patios, porches, and windows, and shall not count toward the maximum.
b.
Bright or fluorescent colors are prohibited.
(13)
As related to manufactured homes, these standards shall apply to all Class A, Class B, and Class C manufactured homes, as defined by this UDO.
(d)
Multifamily residential building exterior finish materials.
(1)
Exterior building materials shall be primarily brick, stone, other masonry, glass, wood, or cementitious fiberboard. Vinyl shall be prohibited except for window frames (head, sill, jambs).
(2)
Building walls shall incorporate brick, cast stone, and/or stone for at least 30 percent of the nonfenestration façade area in the first and second story. Exposed basement walls shall be considered part of the first story.
(3)
All brick, stone, or other masonry shall be full- or half-depth. Simulated veneer panels are prohibited. Simulated masonry that are individually stacked or applied are acceptable.
(4)
Metal shall be permitted only as standing seam metal roofing or as an architectural accent comprising a maximum of 20 percent of any one façade. Acceptable metal materials are limited to architectural metal panels, architectural metal cladding, metal mesh, and perforated metal. Examples of metal materials not permitted include but are not limited to stock PEMB metal skins commonly referred to as 'R-panel' and sheet metal systems with exposed fasteners, except as required for perforated metal.
(5)
Exposed concrete masonry units are prohibited.
(6)
Exposed plywood/OSB/pressed wood sheathing is prohibited.
(7)
Exposed neon, LED, or other types of exposed bulb accent lighting shall be prohibited, unless otherwise authorized by this UDO.
(8)
Equipment screens for ground mounted units shall have a finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade or provide vegetative landscape screening immediately around the units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(9)
Equipment screens for wall mounted units shall have finish that is consistent with the finish materials of the building façade, or vegetative landscape screening shall be provided immediately in front of the equipment units. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(10)
Equipment screens for roof mounted units and appliances shall be a material consistent with the finish materials of the building façades. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(11)
Exterior color requirements.
a.
No more than three different exterior finish materials or applied wall colors may be used on any single building elevation. Additional colors or materials may be used for architectural elements such as balconies, foundations, decks, doors, patios, porches, and windows, and shall not count toward the maximum.
b.
Bright or fluorescent colors are prohibited.
(e)
Where any requirement of this section conflicts with a standard or requirement expressly stated within a specific zoning or overlay district, the standard or requirement of the district shall govern. These provisions are intended to supplement, and not supersede, the applicable standards of the underlying zoning district unless otherwise expressly stated.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006; Ord. No. 0-2007-14, § 4, 7-24-2007; Ord. No. 0-2013-12, § II, 11-12-2013; Ord. No. O-2025-23, 9-9-2025)
Tables 1 and 2 in section 214-1 show the minimum lot size, minimum lot width and maximum coverage for each land development district. However, notwithstanding said standards of the UDO, no lot shall have a lesser area than that approved by the Rockdale County Board of Health for safe drinking water and septic tank operation.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
The minimum distance between buildings located on the same lot shall be 20 feet.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All uses requiring an occupation tax and business license pursuant to chapter 222 shall be located in a zoning district that permits such business activity in accordance with the Table of Uses in section 218-1.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Truck stops are prohibited. Furthermore, no adjoining or adjacent uses shall be physically connected or used so as to effectively create a truck stop.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
All uses requiring an occupation tax and business license pursuant to the Code of Ordinances, chapter 22, shall comply with all such licensing requirements and shall not be considered lawful uses under Title 2 of the UDO if in violation of such licensing requirements.
(Ord. No. 0-2006-32, §§ 1—3, 11-28-2006)
Mailbox support structures erected within or adjacent to the right-of-way of any public street in unincorporated Rockdale County upon which the permanent posted speed limit exceeds 35 miles per hour shall consist of a single wooden post not exceeding four inches by four inches in size or a single metal pole not exceeding two inches in diameter.
(Ord. No. 2007-09, § 22, 5-22-2007)
(a)
Applicability.
(1)
The architectural standards established by this section shall apply to all zoning districts where residential uses are permitted.
(2)
As related to manufactured homes, these standards shall apply to all Class A, Class B, and Class C manufactured homes, as defined by this UDO.
(3)
Where any provision of this section conflicts with a standard or requirement expressly stated within a zoning or overlay district, the standard or requirement of the district shall control. The provisions of this section are intended to be supplementary to, and not in lieu of, applicable zoning district standards unless otherwise expressly stated.
(b)
Architectural design standards for multifamily residential buildings.
(1)
Design composition.
a.
Building designs shall incorporate a composition of features. Features include, but are not limited to, columns, windows, doors, balconies, pilasters, changing rooflines, plan offsets, cornice, porch entrances, tower elements, architectural patterns and texture, cupolas, and dormers. The maximum wall length without façade features shall not exceed 50 feet along street-facing façades.
b.
The appearance and materials of the rear and side walls shall be similar to and compatible with the front of the building.
c.
Building entrances shall be well-marked and identifiable from the building form.
d.
Common walls and common floors ceiling between units shall be constructed to meet a sound transmission coefficient (STC) rating of 50 or higher.
e.
Building designs with greater than three stories shall incorporate at least one significant color change, material change, or architectural feature on either the lower story or upper story. This requirement shall not apply to corner elements, entrance features, or other architectural projections, provided such features are clearly designed to emphasize building entrances or articulate a special architectural volume.
f.
Exterior burglar bars and steel roll-down curtains are prohibited.
g.
Ground mounted electrical, mechanical, and like utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
h.
Wall mounted electrical, mechanical, utility meters, and other utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
i.
All roof mounted equipment, such as mechanical units, vent hoods, communication devices, and/or other building system(s) equipment, shall be screened from view on all sides of the building. Roof screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment. Screening shall not resemble mechanical louvers.
(2)
Additional requirements applicable to multi-family residential buildings.
a.
Utility equipment and service meters are to be located away from high visibility and usage areas and effectively screened from view. The use of enclosed structures or interior access to utility equipment and meters is encouraged. The use of utility closets on exterior walls is prohibited.
b.
All roof vents, pipes, antennas, satellite dishes, and other roof equipment (except chimneys) shall be located on the rear elevations and, except for satellite dishes, be painted to match the color of the roof or, if technical considerations prevent installing satellite dishes on the rear elevation, then such equipment shall be installed where it will have minimal visual impact as seen from the street.
c.
Trash enclosures in amenity areas shall be screened from view on at least three sides by a solid wall or fence of at least six feet in height, and on the fourth side by a solid gate no less than five feet in height.
(c)
Architectural design standards for attached and detached residential buildings.
(1)
Design composition.
a.
Building designs shall incorporate a composition of features. Features include, but are not limited to, columns, architectural windows, balconies, pilasters, changing rooflines, cornice, ornamental roof brackets, porch entrances, tower elements, material patterns, cupolas, and dormers.
b.
Ground mounted electrical, mechanical, and like utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
c.
Wall mounted electrical, mechanical, utility meters, and other utility equipment shall be screened. Screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
d.
All roof mounted equipment, such as mechanical units, vent hoods, communication devices, and/or other building system(s) equipment, shall be screened from view on all sides of the building. Roof screening height shall be equal to the height of the equipment.
e.
Garages on detached residential uses:
1.
Front-facing garage doors shall not take up more than 40 percent of the linear width of any street-facing façade.
2.
Front-facing garage doors shall be offset from the front façade by a minimum of five feet. This offset may be achieved through conditioned interior space or a porch.
f.
Garage doors on any residential building shall incorporate fenestration, decorative hardware, or other architectural detailing. Alternative treatments may be approved by the director of planning and development if they provide equivalent visual interest.
g.
The front façades shall have architectural modulation and detail that includes features such as varied materials and wall planes, varied roof forms and roof lines, balconies, porches, bay windows, varied window sizes and shapes, shutters, entrance doors, sidelights, pilasters, varied garage door designs, and other features to provide visual interest.
h.
Residential structures along existing public right-of-way shall require any side or rear façade that is visible from the public right-of-way to include the same exterior finish materials and similar landscaping as the front of the structure. In addition, it shall include windows and architectural features similar to the front façade, including, but not limited to, awnings, cornice work, edge detailing, or other decorative finish materials.
i.
Stoops and porches, where facing streets or open spaces, shall be a minimum of four feet deep.
j.
All chimneys and fireplace enclosures on the exterior of the façade shall extend to the ground and a minimum of three feet above the roof line.
(2)
Site requirements.
a.
Required driveway depths. Driveways shall be constructed to provide sufficient space for a standard passenger vehicle. Vehicles are prohibited from overhanging or obstructing any adjacent sidewalk or the public right-of-way.
b.
All sidewalks internal to a development shall be least five feet in width and shall be located on both sides of any public or private street.
c.
Utility requirements.
1.
Individual systems for water, fuel/gas, and HVAC shall be required for each unit.
2.
Individual metering shall be provided for water, electric, and fuel/gas utilities.
3.
Easements for utility lines shall be provided in the common ownership area where lateral service connections shall take place.
d.
All roof vents, pipes, antennas, satellite dishes, and other roof equipment (except chimneys) shall be located on the rear elevations and except for satellite dishes be painted to match the color of the roof or, if technical considerations prevent installing satellite dishes on the rear elevation, then such equipment shall be installed where it will have minimal visual impact as seen from the street.
e.
Trash enclosures in amenity areas shall be screened from view on at least three sides by a solid wall or fence of at least six feet in height, and on the fourth side by a solid gate no less than five feet in height.
(d)
Manufactured homes standards. Any replacement of a pre-existing manufactured home or mobile home with a new manufactured or mobile home shall be permitted in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 36-66-7 et seq. Furthermore, an existing, nonconforming industrialized home that was lawfully permitted prior to the effective date of this unified development ordinance may be replaced with a new manufactured home, notwithstanding the architectural bulk standards herein, provided the replacement is done so within 12 months of the date of removal of the existing mobile home and all conditions and requirements of O.C.G.A. § 36-66-7 et seq are met.
(Ord. No. O-2025-23, 9-9-2025)