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
Union County publishes the mandatory Georgia editions for permits dated January 1, 2026 or later: 2024 International Building, Fuel Gas, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire, Residential, and Pool and Spa Codes; 2023 National Electrical Code; 2015 International Energy Conservation Code; and 2024 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, all subject to Georgia amendments.
Inspection lane
Submit the completed building-permit package by email to ucpermit@uniongov.com or by fax to 706-439-6107. Building inspections cover all phases of new residential and commercial construction; contact Building & Development at 706-439-6045 for scheduling.
Minor-work playbook
Examples of work not requiring a building permit include roofing-material or exterior-siding changes, replacement of floor covering, painting and wallpapering, sidewalks and driveways, and fences. Accessory structures over 150 square feet, dwellings, footprint changes, utility connections, land disturbance, and protected-area work require permits.
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
Submit the completed building-permit package by email to ucpermit@uniongov.com or by fax to 706-439-6107. Building inspections cover all phases of new residential and commercial construction; contact Building & Development at 706-439-6045 for scheduling.
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.
Open planning reference ↗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
Union County Building & Development Department is the identified county-level authority for this profile. Confirm that the property is in its service area before filing.
No verified online portal was located in the reviewed public materials. Contact 706-439-6045 and request the current application route before preparing a final submittal.
A typical review timeline was not verified. Ask the agency for its current completeness and review estimate.
Submit the completed building-permit package by email to ucpermit@uniongov.com or by fax to 706-439-6107. Building inspections cover all phases of new residential and commercial construction; contact Building & Development at 706-439-6045 for scheduling.
Union County publishes the mandatory Georgia editions for permits dated January 1, 2026 or later: 2024 International Building, Fuel Gas, Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire, Residential, and Pool and Spa Codes; 2023 National Electrical Code; 2015 International Energy Conservation Code; and 2024 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, all subject to Georgia amendments. Examples of work not requiring a building permit include roofing-material or exterior-siding changes, replacement of floor covering, painting and wallpapering, sidewalks and driveways, and fences. Accessory structures over 150 square feet, dwellings, footprint changes, utility connections, land disturbance, and protected-area work require permits.
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.