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What kind of permits are necessary in planning and zoning in Georgia?

On Behalf of | Oct 6, 2021 | Real Estate |

People working on a real estate development project in Marietta, Georgia, will need to understand the local planning and zoning laws. Project managers should be familiar with residential and commercial zoning and permits. Even if you’re planning a small-scale addition, what you need a permit for might surprise you.

Planning and zoning in Georgia

If you’re planning a home renovation project, it’s crucial to be familiar with Georgia planning and zoning ordinances and building codes. The Code of Ordinances Chapter 22 Land Use and Zoning Ordinance allows people to see conditional use permits for each area.

The second part of the Code of Ordinances is the Zoning Map, which shows the district boundaries of an area. Zoning districts divide a city into neighborhoods, which have their own permits and conditions for construction. There are unique conditions that each district requires to get permits.

When is a permit necessary?

It depends on what is being built. Even commonplace additions have permit requirements; for example, even a deck could require a permit depending on several factors. If a deck is under 200 square feet, under 30 inches tall and isn’t an exit, the project doesn’t need a permit. There are several other ways a construction project wouldn’t need permits including:

  • Accessory structures less than 200 square feet
  • Fences shorter than 4 feet tall
  • Painting, papering, carpeting, tiling and cabinets in the home
  • Prefabricated swimming pools up to 23 inches deep
  • Playground equipment

When is a permit not necessary?

A permit is required when there is a construction project to enlarge, repair, alter, demolish or move a structure. Any interior repairs such as electrical and plumbing require permits as well. Permits are valid for six months from the commencement. Before doing any work, an inspector could discuss with you which permits you need for the project.

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