The Sandy Springs Development Code, as published, lists "Accessory Dwelling, Guest House" as a permitted use in most districts. One guest house is allowed per lot with a main home, attached or detached, with heated floor area under 1,500 sq ft and no more than two stories. We confirm the current text with the city for your parcel, as of October 2026.
Where can the guest house go?
If it is detached, the published standards place it in the rear yard, require it to meet the district's setbacks, and require at least 20 feet between buildings. It may be attached to the main home instead. The code also lets a guest house sit over a garage if it meets the location and size standards.
Can the guest house have a kitchen?
Yes. The published standards allow a separate kitchen, which is what makes a guest house a full dwelling rather than a pool house or studio.
Can I rent it?
The guest house standards we reviewed do not address long-term rental. Sandy Springs regulates short-term rentals as a separate use. Before you count on rental income, we check the current code and any HOA covenants that apply to your neighborhood, since many Sandy Springs subdivisions have them.
What usually matters on a Sandy Springs lot?
- Slope and creeks. Rolling, wooded lots can bring grading, stream buffer and stormwater requirements.
- Trees. Mature canopy is common, and tree rules can affect placement.
- Septic or sewer. If a lot is served by a septic system, its capacity has to be checked before adding a second unit.
- Covenants. Subdivision restrictions can limit or bar a second dwelling. See HOAs and ADUs.
Who reviews it?
The City of Sandy Springs reviews zoning and building permits for property inside the city. Unincorporated Fulton County rules do not apply there.