Effective on: 1/1/1901

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

1. Rezoning (Map Amendment);
2. Rezoning, Planned Development District;
3. Zoning Text Amendment;
4. Planning Commission Development Plan Review (Variance requested);
5. Local Historic District Designation;
6. Local Historic Property Designation;
7. Amendment to Local Historic District Contributing Resources Map or Height Map; and
8. Certificate of Appropriateness for Local Historic District.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1, Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1)

Effective on: 5/14/2020

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

1. Withdrawals
   1. The applicant may withdraw an application in writing at any time prior to the final decision by the appropriate reviewing authority on said application.
   2. Notwithstanding 3.1.8.a.i., if a request to withdraw an application is made in a public hearing, the applicant shall be responsible for submitting the request in writing to the appropriate reviewing authority not later than three (3) working days after a scheduled hearing. Failure to submit such written request shall authorize the reviewing authority to make a final decision on an application.
2. Deferrals at the Request of the Applicant
   1. The applicant may request a deferral to a later hearing at any time prior to the close of business the day before the scheduled public hearing.
   2. The applicant must request a deferral to a date certain within 90 days of the originally scheduled public hearing.
   3. A second deferral after the original request by the applicant may be granted at the discretion of the reviewing authority for no more than an additional 60 days. If the item is not heard within 60 days of the second deferral, it shall be considered withdrawn. No more than two deferrals may be granted by the reviewing authority.
   4. Any request to defer the review of an application scheduled for consideration at a public hearing must be made in writing to the appropriate reviewing authority not later than the close of business the day before the scheduled public hearing.
3. Continuances by the Reviewing Authority
   1. Review Authorities Not Including the Historic Preservation Commission

      The Mayor and Aldermen, Planning Commission, Savannah Downtown Historic Board of Review and Zoning Board of Appeals shall have the authority to continue review of an application scheduled for public hearings to a date certain.

   2. Historic Preservation Commission Only

      Pursuant to O.C.G.A, §44-10-21 (“Historic Preservation Act”), or as amended, the Historic Preservation Commission shall have the authority to defer review of an application at a public hearing provided the applicant requests a deferral or otherwise consents to such deferral. If a date certain has not been specified at the time a deferral is proposed, the deferred application shall be scheduled for the next regularly scheduled meeting or hearing.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1, Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1)

Effective on: 5/14/2020

1. Statutory Requirements

   Any information required by the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) for published notice for the type of application which is the subject of the notice. Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary in the Article, for applications initiated by the Mayor and Aldermen for the adoption of a zoning ordinance, amendment to the zoning ordinance, rezoning property from one zoning classification to another, or a special use permit, published notices shall be only those required by the Zoning Procedures Law, O.C.G.A. §36-66-1 et seq. and posting of signs shall not be required.

2. Nature of Application

   The application number, application type, applicant’s name, property owner’s name and a description of the proposal or request shall be required for a completed application. If the applicant is the Mayor and Aldermen and the application is for a Comprehensive Plan map amendment, property owner names shall not be required.

3. Public Hearing Location, Time and Date

   The location, time and date, and purpose of all scheduled public hearings for the application shall be required.

4. Location of the Subject Property
   1. The location of the property involved by street address, or if there is no street address, by description of the subject property. If the applicant is the Mayor and Aldermen and the application is for a Comprehensive Plan map amendment, street addresses shall not be required.
   2. For mailed notice only, a location map shall be included, indicating the location and general boundaries of the property, with reference to the closest intersection of public streets, when possible.
5. Property Identification Number

   The Property Identification Number (PIN) for the subject property. If the applicant is the Mayor and Aldermen and the application is for a Comprehensive Plan map, property identification numbers shall not be required.

6. Size of Subject Property

   The total size of the subject property, rounded to the nearest one-hundredth of an acre.

7. Zoning Designations

   The information provided shall include the zoning district(s) of the property subject to the application. If the application is for a rezoning (map amendment), the proposed zoning district(s) shall also be provided.

8. Materials Available for Public Information

   The name, address and telephone number of the Planning Commission where the application, staff report and related materials may be inspected by the public, and the fact that information is available for public inspection during normal business hours.

9. Submittal of Written Materials

   The name, address and telephone number of the Planning Commission where the public may submit written comments or evidence prior to the public hearing.

10. Public Comment Allowed

    A statement that affected parties may appear at the public hearing, be heard and submit evidence and written comments.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

2. Mailing and Postmarking
   1. How Property Addresses are to be Obtained
      1. Mailing addresses for property owners shall be obtained from the most recent tax digest available from the office of the Chatham County Board of Assessors.
      2. For neighborhood and property owner associations, mailing addresses shall be obtained from the City of Savannah as provided in Sec. 3.2.7.
      3. The appropriate reviewing authority shall prepare the content of the notice and be responsible for its mailing.
   2. Timing of Mailed Notice
      1. For all applications that require mailed notice, except those provided in Sec. 3.2.4.b.i.(2) and Sec. 3.2.4.b.ii.(2), notice shall be mailed at least 15 but no more than 45 days prior to the public hearing.
      2. For applications to designate a local historic district or to designate a local historic property (or to amend a historic district designation or historic property designation), mailed noticed shall be sent at least 10 but not more than 20 days prior to the public hearing as provided in O.C.G.A. §44-10-26 (“Georgia Historic Preservation Act”).
   3. When Notice Deemed to be Mailed

        Notice shall be deemed mailed by its deposit with the U.S. Postal Service.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

When required, as provided in Table 3.2-1, posted notice shall include the following information listed below on the sign:

1. 1.  The type of application;
   2.  Description of the proposal or request;
   3.  The date, time and location of the scheduled public hearing;
   4.  The application file number; and
   5.  A phone number to call for additional information.

2. Posting of Notice

   Posting of property shall comply with the requirements listed below.

   1. Responsibility for Posting

      Signs shall be posted by the applicant, except applications initiated by the Mayor and Aldermen shall be exempt from this requirement.

   2. Form of Required Signs

      Notice shall be posted on weather resistant signs in a form established by the City Manager or his or her designee.

   3. Preparation of Signs

      Signs shall be prepared by the City Manager or his or her designee.

3. Timing of Posted Notice

   For any application requiring posted notice, signs shall be posted not less than 15, but no more than 45 days before the public hearing.

4. Location of Signs
   1. Subject Property

      Signs shall be placed in a conspicuous place on the subject property.

   2. Street Frontage

      Signs shall be placed along each street that the property abuts so that the signs are visible from the street.

   3. Lack of Street Frontage

      If the property does not have street frontage, at least one (1) sign shall be placed on the property at the access point and additional sign(s) shall be placed on the nearest public right-of-way so that the sign is visible to the public.

   4. Installation

      Signs shall not be posted onto any tree.

5. Removal

   The applicant shall remove the sign within 10 days after final action on the application.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

4. Failure to Provide Neighborhood Notification

   If an applicant fails to provide neighborhood notification consistent with the requirements of this Section, the public hearing shall be postponed until after such notification has been made.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Updates to the text or Future Land Use Map of the Comprehensive Plan shall occur every five years based on O.C.G.A. §110-12-1.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. The Mayor and Aldermen, for any lands located within the city limits of Savannah.
2. The Planning Commission, for any lands located in the city limits of Savannah.
3. Any person, or agent for such person, who seeks to rezone his or her own property.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

1. Public Hearing

   The Mayor and Aldermen shall hold a minimum of one (1) public hearing to consider the proposed rezoning after receiving a recommendation from the applicable review body. Within seven (7) days of receiving the recommendation, the Mayor and Aldermen shall notify the applicant of the scheduled date for the public hearing.

2. Standards

   The Mayor and Aldermen shall evaluate the proposed rezoning based upon the standards in Sec. 3.5.8, Review Standards for Rezoning Applications.

3. Action by the Mayor and Aldermen

   Following the public hearing, the Mayor and Aldermen shall take one of the following actions:

   1. Approve;
   2. Approve with conditions;
   3. Approve an alternative zoning district;
   4. Continue to the next meeting or to a date certain;
   5. Remand to the appropriate reviewing authority; or
   6. Deny.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1, Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1)

Effective on: 5/14/2020

1. Suitability and Community Need
   1. Whether the range of uses permitted by the proposed zoning district is more suitable than the range of uses that is permitted by the current zoning district.
   2. Whether the proposed zoning district addresses a specific need in the county or city.
2. Compatibility
   1. Whether the zoning proposal will adversely affect the existing use or usability of adjacent or nearby property;
   2. Whether the zoning proposal is compatible with the present zoning pattern and conforming uses of nearby property and the character of the surrounding area.
   3. Whether there are other existing or changing conditions affecting the use and development of the property which give supporting grounds for either approval or disapproval of the zoning proposal.
3. Consistency

   Whether the zoning proposal is in conformity with the policy and intent of the Comprehensive Plan and other adopted plans, such as a redevelopment plan or small area plan.

4. Reasonable Use

   Whether the property to be affected by the zoning proposal has a reasonable use as currently zoned.

5. Adequate Public Services

   Whether adequate school, public safety and emergency facilities, road, ingress and egress, parks, wastewater treatment, water supply and stormwater drainage facilities are available for the uses and densities that are permitted in the proposed zoning district.

6. Proximity to a Military Base, Installation or Airport

   In accordance with the O.C.G.A. §36-66-6, when a rezoning is proposed for property located within 3,000 feet of a military base, installation or airport, or within the 3,000 foot Clear Zone and Accident Prevention Zones Numbers I and II as prescribed in the definition of an Air Installation Compatible Use Zone that is affiliated with such base, installation or airport the following shall occur:

   1. The commander of such military base, installation or airport, including Hunter Army Airfield, shall be requested to provide a written recommendation and supporting facts at least 30 days prior to the public hearing.
   2. If there is no response from the commander, there shall be a presumption that the proposed rezoning will not have any adverse effect relative to the standards listed below and the Planning Director shall make such investigation and recommendation with respect to the standards listed below.
      1. Whether the zoning proposal will permit a use that is suitable in view of the use of adjacent or nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, installation or airport;
      2. Whether the zoning proposal will adversely affect the existing use or usability of nearby property within 3,000 feet of a military base, installation or airport;
      3. Whether the property to be affected by the zoning proposal has a reasonable economic use as currently zoned;
      4. Whether the zoning proposal will result in a use which will or could cause a safety concern with respect to excessive or burdensome use of existing streets, transportation facilities, utilities, or schools due to the use of nearby property such as a military base, installation or airport;
      5. Whether the zoning proposal is in conformity with the policy and intent of the adopted land use plan (i.e., the Comprehensive Plan); and,
      6. Whether there are existing or changing conditions affecting the use of the nearby property such as a military base, installation or airport, which give supporting grounds for either approval or disapproval of the zoning proposal.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. The Mayor and Aldermen;
2. The Planning Commission;
3. The Planning Director;
4. City Manager or his or her designee;
5. Any person owning property within Savannah or agent for such person.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Public Hearing

   The Mayor and Aldermen shall hold a minimum of one (1) public hearing to consider the proposed text amendment after receiving a recommendation from the responsible review authority. Within seven (7) days of receiving the recommendation, the Mayor and Aldermen shall notify the applicant of the scheduled date for the public hearing. Notwithstanding any other provision in this ordinance to the contrary, any text amendment initiated by the Mayor and Aldermen shall not be submitted to or considered by the Planning Commission unless specifically requested by the Mayor and Aldermen.

2. Action by the Mayor and Aldermen

   After consideration of the review standards set forth in Sec. 3.7.7, the Mayor and Aldermen shall:

   1. Approve and adopt the proposed text amendment as submitted by the applicant;
   2. Approve and adopt the proposed text amendment as recommended by the applicable review authority;
   3. Approve and adopt the proposed text amendment with modifications;
   4. Continue to the next meeting or to a date certain;
   4. Return the proposed text amendment to the review authority for further study and recommendation; or
   5. Deny the proposed text amendment.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Consistency

   The extent to which the proposed text amendment is consistent with the remainder of the Zoning Ordinance, including any purpose and intent statements.

2. New or Changing Circumstances

   The extent to which the proposed text amendment represents a new idea not considered in the existing Zoning Ordinance, or represents a revision necessitated by changing circumstances over time.

3. Error or Inappropriate Standard

   Whether or not the proposed text amendment corrects an error in the Zoning Ordinance, or otherwise improves upon existing requirements or standards.

4. Compliance with Higher Law

   Whether or not the proposed text amendment revises the Zoning Ordinance to comply with state or federal statutes.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Development Plans consist of general development plans, specific development plans and group development plans. This phase of review focuses on aspects of development that does not require construction level design drawings. Development Plans are typically reviewed and approved before developers move on to the construction design phase. This ensures projects have the appropriate use for any given location before more detailed drawings are required.

   Commentary: Elements that may be part of a Development Plan include but are not limited to land use information, spatial layouts, parking, density, landscaping, lighting, access management, and signage.

2. Construction Plans are required to be reviewed and approved prior to the issuance of site development permits or building permits. Construction plans are reviewed by City staff under the coordination of the City Manager or his or her designee. The review process for Construction Plans is not covered in detail within this Ordinance.

   Commentary: Permits that require Construction Plans are site development permits, building permits, sign permits, plumbing permits, electrical permits, and mechanical permits.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. City of Savannah Development Plans (Minor)
   1. Final Authority: Development Plans that are reviewed and approved by the City Manager or his or her designee include the following:
      1. Temporary use permits (see Sec. 3.11, Temporary Use Permits);
      2. Accessory structures or uses as provided in Sec. 8.7 Accessory Structures and Uses as determined by the City Manager or his or her designee; or
      3. Development Plans that do not require Planning Commission level review described below. The Planning Director may participate in the City of Savannah Development Plan Review for such plans.
2. Planning Commission Development Plan Review (Major)

   Development Plans that are reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission.

   1. Review Authority:

      The Planning Commission shall review the following Development Plans and make recommendations to the Mayor and Aldermen:

      1. Rezoning for a Planned Development District (see Sec. 3.6 Planned Developments); and
      2. Special use permits (see Sec. 3.10, Special Use Permits).
   2. Final Authority

      The Planning Commission shall review and have the final authority to approve or deny the following Development Plans:

      1. Any special exception that requires a Development Plan (see Sec. 3.12, Special Exceptions);
      2. Any use that requires a Development Plan as provided in Article 8.0, Use Standards;
      3. Any variance requested for any Development Plan; or
      4. Major subdivisions in accordance with the requirements of the Subdivision Regulation Ordinance, Savannah City Code, Part 8, Chapter 2.
3. Planning Director Administrative Review

   The Planning Director shall review and provide comment on Development Plans that are not listed in 3.8.3 above.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

3. Group Development Plan

   Projects consisting of two or more principal buildings devoted to a common or similar use and constructed on a single lot may be permitted in any of the various districts established by this chapter, provided that such project shall be approved by the Planning Commission.

   Approval of a group development plan shall be required to follow the same requirements as provided in Sec. 3.8.4.b. General Development Plan.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Public Hearing
   1. Within seven (7) days of receiving the Planning Commission recommendation, the Mayor and Aldermen shall notify the applicant of the scheduled date for the public hearing.
   2. The Mayor and Aldermen shall hold a minimum of one (1) hearing to consider the proposed special use permit after receiving the recommendation.
2. Standards and Criteria

   The Mayor and Aldermen shall evaluate the proposed special use permit based upon the standards in Sec. 3.10.8, Review Criteria for Special Use Permits.

3. Action by the Mayor and Aldermen

   After consideration of the review criteria required by Sec. 3.10.8, the Mayor and Aldermen shall make one of the following decisions:

   1. Approve Special Use Permit as submitted by the applicant;
   2. Approve Special Use Permit as recommended by the Planning Commission;
   3. Continue to the next meeting or to a date certain;
   4. Approve Special Use Permit with modifications and/or conditions; or
   5. Deny Special Use Permit.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Whether the special use is consistent with the intent, goals, strategies, policies, guiding principles and programs of the Comprehensive Plan and other adopted plans;
2. Whether specific use standards for the special use, if any, as provided in Article 8.0, Use Standards, can be achieved;
3. Whether the special use is detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and appearance of the adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of any one or more of the following: the number, area, location, height, orientation, intensity (such as traffic, noise, odor, hours of operation), or relation to the neighborhood or other adjacent uses;
4. Whether the subject property is adequate in shape and size to accommodate the special use;
5. Whether adequate public facilities are available to serve the proposed use, including, but not limited to: water; sanitary sewer; stormwater drainage facilities; public safety and emergency facilities; roadway capacity; vehicular ingress and egress; or, that the applicant will provide adequately for such services and for placement in an appropriate location.
6. Whether the special use will result in the destruction, loss, or damage of any feature determined by the review authority to be of natural, cultural, scenic or historic importance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

1. a.
   Whether the use for which the special exception is being considered would be located, operated and maintained in a manner in conformance with the goals, policies, and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan and the provisions of this Ordinance;
2. b.
   Whether the special exception would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and appearance of the adjacent uses or general vicinity.
3. c.
   For Special Exceptions identified in Sec. 3.12.2.xii, the Planning Commission may consider, but is not required to make a finding for, the following criteria in addition to Parts a. and b. above:

   1. i.
       Public benefit

      Whether the development provides greater public benefit than it would if the special exception(s) were not granted.

   2. ii.
      Compatibility

      1. 1.
          Whether the development will adversely affect the existing use or usability of adjacent or nearby property.
      2. 2.
         Whether the development is compatible with the present zoning pattern and conforming uses of nearby property and the character of the surrounding area.
   3. iii.
      Reasonable Use

      Whether the property has a reasonable use as currently zoned.

   4. iv.
      Adequate Public Services

      1. 1.
          Whether adequate public safety and emergency facilities, transportation, parks, wastewater treatment, water supply and stormwater drainage facilities are available for the proposed development.
      2. 2.
         Whether the project site is located within one-half mile of public transportation.

(Ord. of 3-27-2025(17), § 1)

Effective on: 3/27/2025

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. For any special exception that would not require a building permit, the special exception shall be acted upon within one (1) year from the special exception was granted; or
2. For any special exception that would require a building permit, the related building permit shall have been issued and have remained continuously valid thereafter within two (2) years from the date the special exception was granted.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

The City Manager or his or her designee shall not be required to issue a Sign Permit unless such sign complies with the provisions of this Ordinance and all other applicable ordinances and regulations.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

A permitted temporary sign shall display a decal issued by the City Manager or his or her designee. The decal shall be affixed to the sign as directed by the City Manager or his or her designee so as to be visible to the public.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Provide a uniform procedure to protect, enhance, perpetuate and use buildings, structures, sites, objects, or a combination thereof that have pre-historic, historic, architectural or cultural significance;
2. Promote the identification, documentation and evaluation of the significance of individual historic resources and districts;
3. Implement the historic preservation goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan;
4. Fulfill the responsibility of the city of Savannah:
   1. As a Certified Local Government under Federal preservation laws; and
   2. For Federal Section 106 reviews regarding historic resources;
5. Preserve and protect contributing resources from demolition and prevent demolition by neglect (see Sec. 3.20, Proactive Preservation);
6. Ensure compatibility of new construction and alterations within a local historic district;
7. Promote the educational and cultural welfare of the people of the city of Savannah;
8. Encourage and promote adaptive reuse of historic properties; and
9. Promote public awareness of the value of rehabilitation, restoration and maintenance of the existing building stock and of programs that offer financial incentives for historic preservation.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Criteria for Local Historic District Designation

   The proposed local historic district possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association and at least one of the following:

   1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or
   2. Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past; or
   3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or that represents the work of a master, or that possesses high artistic values, or that represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
   4. Has yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in pre-history or history.
2. Classification of Resources and Criteria for Resource Designation

   All resources within the District shall be classified and designated on the District’s “Historic District Contributing Resources Map.” All resources shall be identified as contributing or non-contributing as follows:

   1. Contributing. All resources identified on the “Historic District Contributing Resources Map” having historic significance shall be considered “contributing” and worthy of preservation and shall be classified as “historic” for purposes hereunder.
   2. Period of Significance. Contributing buildings include those within the current Period of Significance, possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and meet one or more of the following criteria:
      1. Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; or
      2. Are associated with the lives of significant persons in our past; or
      3. Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
      4. Have yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.
   3. Exceptional Importance. Contributing buildings include a select group of exceptional resources constructed outside the district’s Period of Significance. These resources possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and meet one or more of the above criteria.
   4. Non-Contributing. New construction and all resources identified as non-contributing on the “Historic District Contributing Resources Map” are classified as “non-historic” for zoning purposes hereunder.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Provide a uniform procedure to protect, enhance, perpetuate and use buildings, structures, sites, objects or a combination thereof that have pre-historic, historic, architectural or cultural significance;
2. Promote the identification, documentation and evaluation of the significance of individual historic resources;
3. Implement the historic preservation goals, policies and programs of the Comprehensive Plan;
4. Fulfill the responsibility of the city of Savannah:
   1. As a Certified Local Government under Federal preservation laws; and
   2. For Federal Section 106 reviews regarding historic resources.
5. Preserve and protect contributing resources from demolition and prevent demolition by neglect (see Sec. 3.20, Proactive Preservation);
6. Ensure compatibility of new construction and alterations within the local historic property;
7. Promote the educational and cultural welfare of the people of the city of Savannah;
8. Encourage and promote adaptive reuse of historic properties; and
9. Promote public awareness of the value of rehabilitation, restoration and maintenance of the existing building stock and of programs that offer financial incentives for historic preservation.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Whether the historic property possesses integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association, and at least one (1) of the following:
   1. Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history;
   2. Is associated with the lives of persons significant in our past;
   3. Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction, or that represents the work of a master, or that possesses high artistic values, or that represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
   4. Has yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in pre-history or history.
2. Whether buildings, structures, sites or objects within the boundaries of the property shall be classified as contributing or non-contributing based on the following criteria:
   1. A contributing building, structure, site or object adds to the historic, architectural or archaeological value for which the property is significant because it was present during the period of significance for the property, relates to the documented significance of the property, and possesses historic integrity or is capable of yielding important information about the period; or
   2. A non-contributing building, structure, site or object does not add to the historic, architectural or archaeological value for which the property is significant because:
      1. It was not present during the period of significance for the property or does not relate to the documented significance of the property; or
      2. Due to alterations, disturbances, additions or other changes, it no longer possesses historic integrity or is capable of yielding important information about the period.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

The Historic Preservation Commission shall be permitted to grant certain adjustments as identified in Sec. 3.12.2.a.ix. – xi., Special Exceptions.

4. Action by the Historic Preservation Commission

   After consideration of the applicable review criteria, the Historic Preservation Commission shall adopt one of the following actions:

   1. Approval as recommended by the Planning Director;
   2. Approval with modifications and/or conditions;
   3. Denial; or
   4. Continued to the next meeting or to a date certain upon the request or agreement of the applicant.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1, Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1)

Effective on: 5/14/2020

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Commentary: Contributing buildings, structures, sites and objects are identified on the contributing resources map for the Savannah Downtown Historic District.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. General exterior maintenance or minor, in-kind repairs; however, consultation with the Planning Director is advised to discuss the extent of the work and the maintenance method or materials to be applied prior to beginning the work;
2. Any activity in Sec. 3.19.2.b., that is not visible from a public right-of-way, with the exception of relocation or demolition;
3. Paved pathways less than five (5) feet wide and all sidewalks on the public right-of-way;
4. Non-illuminated signs less than three (3) square feet in size;
5. Interior changes that do not affect the exterior of the resource except any permanent interior features within three feet of an exterior opening (window, doors, etc.) such as interior walls, fixed furniture, fixed signage. ;
6. The addition, modification or removal of any vegetation; and
7. The temporary boarding of openings that will not exceed 30 days.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Prior to the submittal of an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness that will require review by the Savannah Downtown Historic District Board of Review (hereafter Historic Board of Review), the applicant shall participate in a pre-application conference with the Planning Director.

2. Recommended Conference

Prior to the submittal of an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness that does not require review by the Historic Board of Review, it is recommended that the applicant request and participate in a pre-application conference with the Planning Director.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. 1. The design standards and visual compatibility criteria established for the district as provided in Sec. 7.8, Savannah Downtown Historic Overlay District;
   2. The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Rehabilitation, where applicable;
   3. The sign criteria in Sec. 9.9, Signs;
   4. The relocation or demolition standards identified in Sec. 3.19.9; 
   5. Development standards within applicable zoning districts as identified in Article 5.0 Base Zoning Districts; and/or
   6. Accessory structure and accessory dwelling unit standards in Sec. 8.7.
      

3. Special Exceptions
   The Planning Director shall be permitted to grant certain adjustments as identified in Sec. 3.12.2.a.ix. – xi., Special Exceptions.
   
4. Action by the Planning Director

   Based on the applicable review criteria, findings shall be provided with the following action which shall indicate if the application should be:

   1. Approved as proposed by the applicant within 45 days of receipt of a complete application;
   2. Approved with modifications or conditions within 45 days of receipt of a complete application;
   3. Denied; or
   4. Referred to the Historic Board of Review at the discretion of the Planning Director. Public notice shall be consistent with Sec. 3.2, Public Notice.

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

1. 1. Relocation
      1. If the Historic Board of Review has determined that the resource is non-contributing, and the resource is being relocated into or within the Savannah Downtown Historic District, the relocation shall be considered new construction and the new construction criteria (as provided in Sec. 7.8 Savannah Downtown Historic Overlay District) shall apply. The application for relocation and new construction shall be submitted concurrently.
      2. If the Historic Board of Review has determined that the resource is non-contributing, and the resource is being relocated out of the Savannah Downtown Historic District, the relocation shall be issued a Certificate of Appropriateness.
      3. In the case of the relocation of a contributing principal building, a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction has been issued for the replacement building.
      4. The relocation shall be considered new construction. In addition to this sub-section, the resource proposed for relocation shall be reviewed in accordance with Sec. 3.19.8.
      5. A contributing resource shall be moved only to a site designated as historic property (Sec. 3.17, Local Historic Property Designation) or to a site within a designated local historic district (Sec. 3.16, Local Historic District Designation). The new location shall be in as close proximity as possible to the original location and should approximate the historic character and development of the original site.
   2. Demolition

   In the case of the demolition of a contributing principal building, a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction has been issued for the replacement building.

4. Application Requirements

Except where a resource or portion of a resource poses an immediate threat to public safety, all applications for relocation or demolition of a contributing resource shall include the following information:

1. 1. A detailed explanation for the relocation or demolition and why it cannot be avoided;
   2. Information documenting the construction date, history and development of the property.
   3. A report from a Georgia-licensed structural engineer with demonstrated experience in historic renovation, restoration or rehabilitation, as to the structural soundness of the contributing resource. The report shall also identify any dangerous structural conditions.
   4. A fair market value appraisal of the property from a Georgia-licensed property appraiser. The appraisal shall include a full market sales report to include comparable sales;
   5. The amount paid for the property; the remaining balance on any mortgage or other financing secured by the property; and, the annual debt service for the previous two (2) years;
   6. If the property is income producing, the annual gross income from the property for the previous two (2) years; the itemized operating and maintenance expenses for the previous two (2) years; and depreciation deduction and annual cash flow before and after debt service for the previous two (2) years. The Historic Board of Review may require details of past rental history;
   7. The selling price asked and offers received within the previous two (2) years. Most recent assessed values of the property and real estate taxes (if applicable). Include evidence of listing for sale; and,
   8. Any economic incentives and/or funding available to the applicant through federal, state, local or private programs.
   9. Relocation only:
      1. A development plan of the proposed location in accordance with Sec. 3.8, Development Plan Review;
      2. A report from a Georgia-licensed structural engineer with demonstrated experience in historic renovation, restoration or rehabilitation, as to its capacity for relocation without irreparable damage to the resource.

5. Demolition Due to Immediate Threat

   Any order for demolition by the City Manager or his or her designee in whole or in part, of any contributing resource within the Savannah Downtown Historic District due to a dangerous, hazardous or unsafe condition shall not be issued until the order has been reviewed and signed by a Georgia-licensed structural engineer and the City Manager.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. 1. Nature of ownership (individual, business or nonprofit) or legal possession, custody and control;
   2. Financial resources of the owner and parties of interest;
   3. Estimated cost of repairs;
   4. Assessed value of land and improvements;
   5. Real estate taxes for the previous two (2) years;
   6. Amount paid for the property and date of purchase;
   7. Annual debt service, if any, for previous two (2) years;
   8. Any listing of property for sale or rent, price asked and offers received;
   9. If income producing:
      1. Annual gross income from property for the previous two (2) years;
      2. Itemized operating and maintenance expenses for the previous two (2) years;
      3. Annual cash flow, if any, for the previous two (2) years.

2. Review Process

   The Planning Director shall review the application and decide as to whether undue economic hardship exists.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

2. Should the Planning Director find that undue economic hardship does not exist, the City Manager or his or her designee shall notify the property owner and provide a time frame for rectification.
3. Should the property owner(s) fail to respond within the given time frame, regardless of the determination of economic hardship, the Mayor and Aldermen may cause such property to be repaired and rely on other legal remedies to recover the cost of repair.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Commentary: For the purposes of this Section, “review authority” shall mean the Zoning Board of Appeals, Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission or the Savannah Downtown Historic Board of Review.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. a.
   Use and Use Condition(s) Variance Prohibited

   1. i.
      A variance shall not be granted which would permit a use that is not permitted by this Ordinance or that is not permitted in the zoning district in which the property affected by the variance is located.

   Commentary: If a desired use is not permitted in a particular zoning district, an application for a text amendment can be submitted to petition for such use in the district. Alternatively, a rezoning application can be submitted to petition for a zoning district that would permit the desired use.

   2. ii.
      A variance shall not be granted which would vary any use condition except for a variance for dimensional or measurable developmental requirements and to time limitations applicable to the use.

2. b.
   Variance Prohibited

   1. i.
      A variance shall not be granted to permit a lot area per unit that is less than the minimum lot area per unit permitted by the zoning district in which the property affected by the variance is located.
   2. ii.
      A special exception may be granted to permit a lot area per unit that is less than the minimum lot area per unit permitted by the zoning district when identified in Sec. 7.6 Affordable Housing Overlay District.

Commentary: A reduction of the minimum lot area to such a size that the density exceeds the maximum permitted by the zoning district is generally not permitted. An increase in density can be approved in accordance with Sec. 3.5 Rezoning, 3.7, Zoning Text Amendment, or Sec. 3.12, Special Exceptions.

3. c.
   Height Map Variance Prohibited for Savannah Downtown Historic District

   A variance shall not be granted to permit height greater than the maximum height established on the Savannah Downtown Historic District Height Map.

4. d.
   Variances to Conditions of Development Approvals

   The review authorities authorized to grant variances, as specified in Sec. 3.21.2, shall not grant a variance to any condition of approval that has been granted by another review authority. An amendment to a condition of approval by any review authority shall be approved only by the granting review authority.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1, Ord. of 3-27-2025(17), § 1)

Effective on: 3/27/2025

1. Zoning Board of Appeals
   1. Variance Authority
      1. The Zoning Board of Appeals may grant variances only to those standards that are not within the purview of the Planning Commission.
      2. The Zoning Board of Appeals may grant variances only from the building standards for permitted uses in the base zoning districts (not to include density or vehicular access) in Article 5.0, Base Zoning Districts; variable standards in Article 9.0, General Site Standards; variable standards in Article 10.0, Natural Resource Standards.
   2. Variance Criteria

      The criteria in Sec. 3.21.10 shall be the basis of granting a variance request.

2. Planning Commission
   1. Variance Authority

      The Planning Commission may grant variances only from the building standards for permitted uses in the base zoning districts (not to include density or vehicular access) in Article 5.0, Base Zoning Districts; variable standards in Article 9.0, General Site Standards; any variable standards in Article 10.0, Natural Resource Standards. Variances shall be reviewed concurrently with the submittal for a development plan.

   2. Variance Criteria

      The criteria in Sec. 3.21.10 shall be the basis of granting a variance request.

3. Savannah Downtown Historic District Board of Review
   1. Variance Authority

      The Savannah Downtown Historic Board of Review may grant variances from the measurable design standards as provided in Sec. 7.8, Savannah Downtown Historic Overlay District; the building setback, and coverage in Article 5.0, Base Zoning Districts; and, from the sign standards in Sec. 9.9, Signs. The variance shall be reviewed concurrently with the submittal for a Certificate of Appropriateness. The Board may impose such reasonable and additional stipulations and conditions as will, in its judgment, best fulfill the purpose of the design standards.

   2. Variance Criteria

      The below criteria shall be the basis of granting a variance request in addition to the criteria in Sec. 3.21.10. If there is non-compliance with at least one of the criteria below or within Sec. 3.21.10, the variance shall not be approved.

      1. By reason of unusual circumstances, the strict application of the design standards would result in exceptional practical difficulty or undue hardship upon any owner of any specific property.
      2. The variance shall remain in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the design standards so that the architectural or historic integrity or character of the property shall be conserved, and substantial justice done.

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

1. General Consistency

   The variance shall be consistent with the intent of this Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan, and shall not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public health, safety or welfare.

2. Special Conditions
   1. Special conditions and/or circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land, buildings or structures involved and which are not applicable to other lands, buildings or structures in the same zoning district.
   2. The special conditions and/or circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant.
   3. The special conditions and/or circumstances are not purely financial in nature so as to allow the applicant to use the land, buildings or structures involved more profitably or to save money.
3. Literal Interpretation

   Literal interpretation of the provisions of the regulations would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same zoning district under the terms of the Ordinance and would result in unnecessary and undue hardship on the applicant.

4. Minimum Variance

   The variance, if granted, is the minimum variance necessary to make possible the reasonable use of land, buildings or structures.

5. Special Privilege Not Granted

   The variance would not confer on the applicant any special privilege that is denied by this Ordinance to other lands, buildings or structures in the same zoning district.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 05-14-2020(39), § 1

Effective on: 5/14/2020

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 3-25-2021(22), § 1

Effective on: 3/25/2021

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 3-25-2021(22), § 1

Effective on: 3/25/2021

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Criteria for the Re-establishment of a Nonconforming Use

   The Zoning Board of Appeals shall make a finding that the request does comply or does not comply with each individual criterion provided below. If there is non-compliance with at least one of the criteria below, the request shall not be approved.

   1. The design of the building cannot readily accommodate a permitted use of the zoning district in which it is located;
   2. The building has not been subsequently redesigned to house other uses;
   3. The proposed re-established use is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and to the adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of any one or more of the following: the number, area, location, height, orientation, intensity (such as traffic, noise, odor, hours of operation), or relation to the neighborhood or other adjacent uses;
   4. The proposed use is the same as the most recent nonconforming use; and
   5. The General Site Standards comply with this Ordinance to the extent reasonably possible.
2. Criteria for the Re-establishment of a Nonconforming Use Due to Damage

   The Zoning Board of Appeals shall make a finding that the request does comply or does not comply with each individual criterion provided below. If there is non-compliance with at least one of the criteria below, the request shall not be approved.

1. 1. The proposed use is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and the adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of any one or more of the following: the number, area, location, height, orientation, intensity (such as traffic, noise, odor, hours of operation), or relation to the neighborhood or other adjacent uses;
   2. The use is the same as the most recent nonconforming use; and
   3. The General Site Standards comply with this Ordinance to the extent reasonably possible.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

1. Criteria for the Expansion of a Nonconforming Use

   The Zoning Board of Appeals shall make a finding that the request does comply or does not comply with each individual criterion provided below. If there is non-compliance with at least one of the criteria below, the request shall not be approved.

   1. Criteria for the Expansion of a Nonconforming Use of Land
      1. The proposed expansion is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and the adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of any one or more of the following: the number, area, location, height, orientation, intensity (such as traffic, noise, odor, hours of operation), or relation to the neighborhood or other adjacent uses;
      2. The use of the expanded area has the same operational characteristics as the existing nonconforming use; and
      3. The General Site Standards of this Ordinance relating to the original use are complied with to the extent reasonably possible.
   2. Criteria for Expansion of a Nonconforming Use of a Building
      1. The proposed nonconforming use of a building is not detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, and the adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of any one or more of the following: the number, area, location, height, orientation, intensity (such as traffic, noise, odor, hours of operation), or relation to the neighborhood or other adjacent uses;
      2. The use of the expanded area has the same operational characteristics as the existing nonconforming use;
      3. The General Site Standards of this Ordinance relating to the original use are complied with to the extent possible;
      4. The design of the building cannot readily accommodate a permitted use of the zoning district in which it is located; and
      5. The building has not been subsequently redesigned to house other uses.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

1. Criteria

   The Zoning Board of Appeals shall make a finding that the request does comply or does not comply with each individual criterion provided below. If there is non-compliance with at least one of the criteria, the request shall not be approved.

   1. The reconstructed structure will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare, function, adjacent uses or general vicinity by reason of one or more of the following: the size, location, height, orientation or relation to the neighborhood or adjacent uses;
   2. The General Site Standards of this Ordinance are complied with to the extent reasonably possible.

(Ord. of 10-10-2019(37), § 1)

Effective on: 10/10/2019

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Ord. of 3-25-2021(22), § 1

Effective on: 3/25/2021