Action Summary:
title
Application for Special Use Approval and Variance to locate a storage accessory structure at 3982 Austell Powder Springs Road for the purpose of storing materials used by the approved rage room business.
MIT
MIT Supported - Mark All Applicable
☐ Critical Staffing Needs (staffing shortages, retention)
☐ Financial Stability/Sustainability (diverse tax base)
☐ Safety & Protecting Community (code enforcement, stormwater)
☒ Commercial Development
☐ Downtown Development
☐ Tourism (increase share; museum should equitably represent community; events)
☐ Downtown Parking (address parking needs)
☐ Youth Program/Council (community center for youth and seniors; learning gap)
☐ Prepare for Growth and Development (infrastructure in place; annexation; curb cuts; recycling, signage)
staffnotes
Staff Notes
The business, a rage or smash room, holds a special use approval to operate its business at 3982 Austell Powder Springs Road, which was recently renewed for a one-year term in September 2025. The rage room business is a recreational facility where participants safely break items as a form of stress relies. The business owner noted that he received a number of donated items for use in his rage room, and he has submitted an application for special use approval and variance to store these items in a storage trailer that will be parked on site at the rear of the property but partially viewable. The business requires secure, weather-protected storage for breakable inventory and equipment. The proposed trailer would be located at the rear of the property, mostly screened from public view, and used exclusively for operational storage.
The property is located in a commercial zoning district zoned CRC, which permits recreational uses and accessory structures subject to special use approval.
Rage rooms are not explicitly listed in the Unified Development Code but are considered a recreational or entertainment use, similar to axe throwing or escape rooms. Storage trailers are not typically permitted as permanent structures but may be allowed with a variance if they meet screening, safety, and aesthetic standards.
The trailer is essential for storing inventory that cannot be kept indoors due to space or safety concerns. Items stored include glass and electronics, which require secure containment to prevent hazards. The rage room contributes to local business diversity and attracts visitors, supporting Powder Springs’ economic goals. The trailer will be placed in a non-visible area, partially screened and in the rear, and will not affect traffic, noise, or neighboring properties.
The existing building lacks sufficient indoor storage space, and the rear area is the only feasible location for a trailer. The use proposes to share the property with another business and space on the acreage is restricted. The trailer will be maintained and may need flexibility with rear setback requirements. Similar variances have been granted for temporary or accessory structures in commercial zones when adequately screened and maintained.
The applicant agrees to maintain the trailer in good condition, ensure it is not used for public access or business operations, comply with all fire, safety, and environmental regulations, remove or relocate the trailer if the business ceases operation or expands.
Based on the above, staff recommends approval of the special use and variance with the following conditions:
The trailer must be screened in the rear from public view to the greatest extent possible.
It shall be used solely for storage of rage room materials.
The trailer must comply with all applicable building and fire codes.
The approval is tied to the current business use and shall be reevaluated if the use changes.
The relevant provisions of the unified development code pertaining to outdoor storage are:
b.1. The outdoor storage of goods, material, merchandise or vehicles not otherwise on display for customer selection or direct sale or lease to customers in any of the office/commercial zoning districts is prohibited, except in the CRC zoning district.
2.In the CRC zoning district, outdoor storage must be located in the rear yard, and the outdoor storage area must be screened from view by an opaque fence or free-standing wall no less than 8' in height, a special use permit shall be required.