Georgia building departments

How permitting works in Georgia

Mandatory state minimum codes, optional local enforcement. Georgia's state minimum codes apply to all construction, but each city and county decides whether to run a permit and inspection program. Where one exists, it must enforce the current DCA editions and local amendments.

A county name is only a geographic starting point. Depending on the address, a city, town, borough, township, or county office may issue your permit. How to check who issues your permit.

Georgia building codes and licensing

Residential code

2024 International Residential Code with 2026 Georgia Amendments (mandatory state minimum code); amendments effective January 1, 2026

Commercial code

2024 International Building Code with 2026 Georgia Amendments; energy code remains the 2015 IECC with Georgia supplements and amendments

Adopted by

Georgia Department of Community Affairs (Board of Community Affairs) (opens in a new tab)

Outside city limits

Georgia's mandatory codes apply to all construction whether or not they are locally enforced. Each city or county decides whether to enforce them, and those that do must adopt administrative procedures and enforce the latest DCA editions.

What is different in Georgia

• Mandatory state codes apply statewide; permissive codes (the property maintenance code, existing building code, and National Green Building Standard) apply only where a local government adopts them.
• Local amendments must be at least as strict as the state code, must be based on local climatic, geologic, topographic, or public safety factors, and must be sent to DCA for review 60 days before adoption.
• Code appendices are enforceable only if referenced in the code, adopted by DCA, or specifically adopted by the city or county.

Georgia department guides

Browse Georgia counties

Bold counties have at least one researched department guide.

Planning a project in Georgia?

Start with what the model codes say, then confirm local rules with the department that serves your address.

• Do I Need a Permit for a Deck
• Do I Need a Permit for a Fence
• Do I Need a Permit for a Shed
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Roof
• Do I Need a Permit to Replace a Water Heater
• Do I Need a Permit for a Kitchen Remodel
• How Much Does a Building Permit Cost
• Building Inspection Stages Explained

Sources

1. Georgia Department of Community Affairs
2. Georgia DCA – International Residential Code 2026 Amendment Packet (2024 Edition)
3. Georgia DCA – Construction Codes
4. Georgia DCA – Enforcement of State Minimum Codes

State facts checked October 21, 2026. Local amendments can change these rules; the department serving your address has the final word.