The Coweta County Commission decided to get tough Tuesday morning on allowing variances to building lots after work has already been done on the house.

For the last six months, the commissioners have dealt with several builders and homeowners seeking variances after discovering that their homes extended into buffer areas or did not meet the setback requirements.

During Tuesday morning's meeting, the commissioners voted to implement a second permit after the foundation has been laid to try and cut down on the variances.

The commissioners have told the county's staff for the last six months to come up with a proposal that would get the commissioners out of potentially sticky situations.

“Every one of these variances make these five people up here look bad. We're put in the position of telling people to tear up their dream,” said Commissioner Charlie Jones.

Commissioner Jim McGuffey said he was tired of people ignoring the county's ordinances and something had to be done.

The county's new regulations will now cause the builder to apply for another permit before any walls or significant structure is added to the foundation. County officials believe this will be the best remedy to stop builders from trying to defy the county's setback requirements.

If somebody still defies the ordinances and asks for a variance, the commissioners made it quite clear what will happen.

“If you do it again, you'll have to tear down the house,” said Commissioner Vernon “Mutt” Hunter.

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