How To Obtain A Permit

When is a permit needed?

Requirements for building permits are set forth in Unified Development Ordinance §10.1.1

• Building permits are required when:
• Constructing, enlarging, altering, repairing, moving, demolishing, or changing the occupancy of any structure
• Repairs and maintenance valued equal or greater than $1000.00
• The proposed construction activities include any roofing OR structural work
• Separate trade permits are required when installing, enlarging, altering, repairing, removing, converting, or replacing any drainage, sewer, gas, mechanical (HVAC), electrical, or plumbing system (regardless of value).
• Any changes that affect zoning (such as changes in lot coverage) and any land disturbing activities require staff review.
• Any work within a Local Historic District
• Any work or activities that block, impede, or otherwise affect sidewalks, streets, or others right-of-ways (ROWs)

How to apply for a permit:

We no longer accept paper applications or applications via email. All applications must be submitted through our permitting portal www.communitycore.com. For access, email the following information to permits@decaturga.com:

• Primary contact name
• Primary contact email
• Primary contact phone number
• Mailing address
• State/Contractor’s license
• Business license

Once submitted, you will receive an email from no-reply@communitycore.com prompting you to sign in for the first time. From there, you’ll be able to apply for permits, upload documents and photos, pay fees, and schedule inspections. Initial setup occurs once - returning customers submitting new projects will need to log into the online permitting system and select “apply for a permit.”

Pre-Application Meeting

A pre-application meeting must be held with the city arborist prior to filing for any site development, building, plumbing, pool, or utility permit that proposes to remove trees or disturb the critical root zones of any protected tree.

To request a pre-application meeting, email treepermits@decaturga.com

Green Infrastructure for Single Family Residences (New or Improved Impervious Covers, driveways etc.)

After permit issuance:

• Requesting inspections:
  • All inspections must be requested through our permitting portal.
• Post development (as-built) survey approval (Residential Only):
  • For as built approval, upload your survey into our permitting portal. For any questions, contact Aileen De la Torre at aileen.delatorre@decaturga.com

Certificates of Occupancy (COs) and Certificates of Completion (CCs)

Once the following conditions have been met, you may request a certificate of occupancy/completion by emailing permits@decaturga.com

• All permitting fees have been paid
• All inspections have been passed
• As-built approval and inspection passed
• High Performance Building Standard (HPBS) requirements met
• No holds, stop-work-orders, or citations

General Questions:

• For questions and general information, email Permits@decaturga.com or call (404) 377-6198