Builder Licensing

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Building Department is responsible for permitting and inspecting all phases of residential and commercial construction including new construction, renovations, additions, and accessory structures.

WHAT WE DO
The Building Department permits and inspects all phases of residential and commercial construction including electrical, mechanical and plumbing installations. A building permit is typically required for any construction activity except ordinary repair. For example: a permit is not required to replace shingles, install siding, paint, replace floor covering or minor repairs for routine maintenance. However, structural changes in roof design, replacing windows, moving walls, additions, decks/porches, basement finishes and detached storage buildings (garages, barns, et cetera) over 120 square feet do require a building permit. Additionally, permits are required for plumbing, wiring and the installation of mechanical equipment with the exception of minor repairs such as the replacement of lamps and connection of approved portable electrical equipment, portable heating, cooking and clothes drying appliances, portable heating, ventilation and cooling equipment, et cetera. If in doubt as to whether or not a building permit is required, it would be advantageous to contact the Building Department and ask if a permit is required first before proceeding. Obtaining a permit first will avoid penalty fees in addition to the permit fee. If county offices are closed or in an emergency situation and repair is necessary for replacement of a hot water heater, leaky plumbing, repair to damaged electrical service or mechanical equipment from a fire or other disaster, a state licensed plumber, electrician or conditioned air contractor can proceed with necessary repairs provided the appropriate permit is obtained from the Building Department within 72 hours.

Customers often question why a building permit is necessary. The primary reason is to reduce the potential hazards of unsafe construction and ensure the public health, safety and welfare of their family, friends, visitors and potential or perspective buyers. If the construction project does not comply with minimum code requirements, the value of the customer's investment could be substantially reduced. Obtaining a permit up front will hopefully avoid problems in the future not only with building construction but other laws or ordinances such as compliance with county zoning regulations, county development regulations, storm water and flood plain management.

Residential Building Permits : Residential Building Permit Requirements
• Appendix G: regulating swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas.

Commercial Building Permits
Commercial building permits require an approved site plan. Construction plan review for the proposed structures is also required for commercial projects. Most commercial developments require review from various departments including Engineering, Fire Marshall, Environmental Health, Water and Sewer and Planning & Zoning. Plans for assembly, educational, and institutional occupancies as well as buildings 5000 square feet or greater require stamped architectural drawings.

The Commercial Inspector/Plans Examiner has limited office hours as follows: 7:30 a.m. Till 8:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. To speak with the Commercial Inspector concerning plan review or technical information, please call between the hours previously listed. To request an inspection, please call 678.493.6220.

All adopted codes have been amended by the DCA. (www.dca.state.ga.us)

PLEASE, NO FAXED INSPECTION REQUESTS.