Codes, exemptions & field inspections
This guide translates the available agency record into a preconstruction checklist for structural scope, minor work, and inspection release. The adopted code and the issuing official control when a field condition is disputed.
Regulatory framework
Effective January 1, 2026, DeKalb County uses Georgia’s 2024 ICC code editions: International Building, Residential, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, Fire, and Swimming Pool and Spa Codes, plus the 2015 IECC and 2023 NEC, each with Georgia amendments.
Inspection lane
Request inspections online through e-Permitting. After inspections, email the front and back of the permit to Developinspections@dekalbcountyga.gov to obtain the certificate-of-occupancy copy when applicable.
Minor-work playbook
N/A; the county describes permit categories and project-specific requirements rather than publishing a single minor-work exemption list. Retaining walls four feet or higher require a specialty permit; lower walls are not identified as requiring that specialty permit.
Field rule
A permit exemption generally addresses one narrow construction trigger. It does not automatically waive zoning, land-use, floodplain, shoreline, fire, energy, electrical, utility, septic, or right-of-way requirements. Obtain written confirmation when the project involves a new structure, structural alteration, change in occupancy, or concealed work.
Inspection pipeline
Request with lead time
Request inspections online through e-Permitting. After inspections, email the front and back of the permit to Developinspections@dekalbcountyga.gov to obtain the certificate-of-occupancy copy when applicable.
Preserve access
Do not cover framing, reinforcement, wiring, piping, damp-proofing, or life-safety work until the required inspection has been completed and documented.
Close the record
Retain the approved plans, inspection approvals, correction responses, and final certificate or occupancy release with the property file.
Contractor verification
Use the state licensing system to verify active registration, trade credentials, bond status, and liability coverage where available. Match the legal business name to the proposal and permit application.
Planning reference
A building permit is only one part of statutory compliance. Check the local zoning, ordinance, map, or land-use reference before finalizing setbacks, height, lot coverage, access, drainage, or accessory structure placement.
No verified planning reference link is listed; ask the agency for the parcel-specific source.
Source trail
Use these direct agency or licensing links to confirm current instructions before you file, pay, or schedule work. External pages control if their information differs from this directory.
Project questions
DeKalb County Department of Planning and Sustainability - Permits, Plan Review and Inspections is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
Begin with the online permit gateway listed in the application guide. If the portal does not recognize the address or project type, contact 404-371-2155 option 3.
Plan-review time varies with project type and completeness; the county does not publish a fixed 2026 turnaround.
Request inspections online through e-Permitting. After inspections, email the front and back of the permit to Developinspections@dekalbcountyga.gov to obtain the certificate-of-occupancy copy when applicable.
Effective January 1, 2026, DeKalb County uses Georgia’s 2024 ICC code editions: International Building, Residential, Plumbing, Mechanical, Fuel Gas, Fire, and Swimming Pool and Spa Codes, plus the 2015 IECC and 2023 NEC, each with Georgia amendments. N/A; the county describes permit categories and project-specific requirements rather than publishing a single minor-work exemption list. Retaining walls four feet or higher require a specialty permit; lower walls are not identified as requiring that specialty permit.
Field sequencing matters
Code compliance is not only a plan-review exercise. Footings, reinforcement, framing, fireblocking, wiring, piping, insulation, weather protection, and life-safety systems each have points where the work must remain accessible. Build the inspection calendar into the trade schedule instead of treating it as a final administrative step.
When a project qualifies for a narrow minor-work exemption, keep a written explanation of why it qualifies and confirm that related zoning, utility, fire, energy, or environmental rules do not create a separate approval requirement.
Closeout file
Keep the approved plan set, inspection approvals, correction responses, contractor license verification, final certificate, and any occupancy release together. A clean record protects the owner, builder, lender, insurer, and future buyer.