Bulloch County, GA Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

Bulloch County Code § 7-15 requires a development permit before any development activity begins in an area of special flood hazard, and § 7-11 bars locating, extending, converting, or altering any structure or land without full compliance with Chapter 7. The building official, appointed local administrator under § 7-13, reviews permit applications to confirm building sites will be reasonably safe from flooding, verifies elevation certificates from a registered engineer or architect, and notifies FEMA and the state before any watercourse is altered or relocated. Section 7-36 sets general standards for all special flood hazard areas: new construction and substantial improvements must be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement; built with flood-damage-resistant materials and methods; and have utility equipment such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems located to keep water from entering during flooding.

Enclosed areas below the lowest floor must include at least two openings totaling one square inch per square foot of enclosed area, with the bottom of openings no higher than one foot above grade, to equalize hydrostatic pressure. The planning and zoning commission hears variance requests under § 7-17, and a variance cannot be granted within a designated floodway if it would raise flood levels during the base flood discharge. Appeals from the commission go to the Superior Court of Bulloch County.