Accessory Structures in Chatham County, GA (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Chatham County, Georgia.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Chatham County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

ADU Rules

Accessory dwelling units in Savannah and unincorporated Chatham County are governed by the joint NewZO zoning ordinance (Sec. 8.7.4). NewZO defines an ADU as a separate residential unit on the same lot as the main home, allowed in specified districts on lots meeting minimum-area rules.

ADU Rules in Chatham County, GA: NewZO Sec. 8.7.4

Some Restrictions

Chatham County-Savannah Unified Zoning Ordinance (NewZO) Sec. 8.7.4

A structure used as an individual residential unit located on the same lot as the principal dwelling, which contains permanent provisions for a living space with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Shed & Carport Rules

In unincorporated Chatham County, a building permit is required for accessory buildings, storage buildings, and tool sheds. Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services lists these among the structures that shall require permits, plus zoning setbacks under the NewZO ordinance.

Shed Permits in Chatham County, GA: Storage Sheds Need a Permit

Some Restrictions

Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services - When Permits Are Required

The following types of work shall require permits: New structures including main buildings, garages, carports, attached porches, sun decks, room additions and extensions or enlargement of existing rooms, accessory buildings, storage buildings, tool sheds...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Garage Conversions

Converting a Chatham County garage or other non-habitable space into living quarters requires a building permit. The county lists any change of occupancy class, and conversion of storage or non-habitable space to living quarters, as work that shall require permits.

Garage Conversions in Chatham County, GA: Permit Required

Some Restrictions

Chatham County Building Safety & Regulatory Services - When Permits Are Required

Any work that changes the class of construction or occupancy class of the building; Conversion of basement or other below grade space, attic, storage or other non-habitable space to living quarters (such as bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, etc.)

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Chatham County ordinances

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