Cobb County Grading Permit required for earth movement over 5,000 sq ft or any work in setbacks/buffers. Drainage cannot be redirected onto adjacent properties (common-law nuisance). Retaining walls over 4 ft require engineered plans.
Grading, filling, or excavation in unincorporated Cobb County requires a Land Disturbance Permit (same threshold as erosion control — 5,000 sq ft disturbance) plus engineering review if it affects drainage patterns. Key rules under Ch. 50 and the Building Code: (1) Site grading must direct surface water away from structures with minimum 5% slope for 10 feet. (2) Drainage cannot be redirected or concentrated onto adjacent properties — violations trigger both Code Enforcement action and civil nuisance/trespass liability under Georgia common law. (3) Retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from bottom of footing to top of wall) require engineered plans sealed by a Georgia PE, building permit, and inspection. Tiered walls count cumulatively if less than 2H horizontal separation. (4) Cut/fill slopes must be 3:1 or flatter unless engineered. (5) Stormwater concentration points require rip-rap or engineered energy dissipation.
Unpermitted grading: stop-work + $250–$2,500 fine. Redirecting water to neighbor: corrective order + private civil action possible. Unpermitted tall retaining wall: stop-work, engineering required retroactively, $500–$2,500.
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Smyrna, GA
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Smyrna, GA
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Smyrna, GA
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Smyrna, GA
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Smyrna, GA
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Smyrna, GA
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