Before You Build in Brookhaven, GA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)

Georgia law applies in Brookhaven: fences must be entirely on the owner's property. No city ordinance requires neighbor consent. Boundary disputes are civil matters. Surveys are strongly recommended before installation to confirm property lines.

A permit is required for all residential fence construction in Brookhaven. There is NO fee for residential fence permits. Permits submitted through the City's Project Portal at brookhavenga.gov. Pool enclosures and commercial fences require additional review.

Brookhaven's fence height limits are set in the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 27, Art. IX, Landscaping and Fences). Typical residential limits: 4 feet in front yards; 6 feet in side and rear yards. Design requirements include architectural variation with columns every 8 feet for fences over 3 feet tall.

Brookhaven pools must comply with pool barrier requirements under the adopted Georgia Residential Code (IRC). Pools deeper than 24 inches require a fully enclosing barrier at least 48 inches tall. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Pool enclosure permits require additional review.

Pool safety in Brookhaven is governed by the Georgia Residential Code and National Electrical Code. All pool electrical work must be permitted and inspected. VGB-compliant anti-entrapment drain covers are federally required. Pools must be maintained to prevent mosquito breeding per DeKalb County health codes.

Above-ground pools deeper than 24 inches in Brookhaven must meet the same 48-inch barrier requirements as in-ground pools. Pool walls of 48+ inches may serve as the barrier if ladders are secured or removed when not in use. Building permits required.

Garage conversions to living space in Brookhaven require a building permit and must comply with Ch. 7 building standards and Ch. 27 zoning. ADU rules apply if creating a separate unit. IRC standards for insulation, egress, HVAC, and electrical must be met. Apply at brookhavenga.gov.

ADUs in Brookhaven are permitted in residential zones under the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 27). Typical ADU standards in greater Atlanta area: max ~750 sq ft, max 20 feet tall, lot coverage not to exceed 50%. JADUs up to 500 sq ft within existing home are allowed. Permits required — apply at brookhavenga.gov.

Brookhaven treats carports as residential accessory structures under Chapter 27 (Zoning). They are limited to one story and a maximum of 16 feet in height, must be located in the rear or side yard (rear-loading detached garages and most accessory structures must sit entirely behind the principal building), and must observe a minimum 5-foot rear-property-line setback (excluding eave). A building permit through the City Project Portal is required.

Accessory structures including sheds in Brookhaven are regulated under the Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 27) and Building Code (Ch. 7). Sheds must meet setback requirements, be placed in rear or side yards, and not exceed coverage limits. Permits required for sheds over 144 sq ft — apply at brookhavenga.gov.

Outdoor burning in Brookhaven is governed by GAEPD Rule 391-3-1-.02(5) and the Georgia Forestry Commission permit system. A free burn permit from the GFC is required for most outdoor fires. DeKalb County Fire and Rescue has jurisdiction for fires within city limits.

Backyard fire pits and recreational fires are generally permitted in Brookhaven for residential use in a contained, non-combustible structure. Fires must be attended at all times, kept small, and extinguished before leaving. Nuisance smoke may be reported to Code Enforcement.

Brookhaven's tree ordinance (Ch. 14, Art. III, §14-50+) prohibits pruning trees in a way not consistent with ISA/ANSI A300 standards. Trees 4+ inch DBH are protected. Pruning must not adversely affect tree health. Permits required for significant pruning near protected trees. Chapter 14, §14-55 covers tree protection during construction.

Brookhaven receives water from DeKalb County Watershed Management. Georgia Water Stewardship Act (2010) outdoor watering schedule applies. During EPD drought declarations, Level 1–4 restrictions limit or prohibit outdoor watering. Check DeKalb County Watershed for current status.

Brookhaven requires a permit for removal of ANY tree 4+ inches DBH (Ch. 14, §14-50). Maximum 2 live, healthy trees removed per 18-month period for residential. $0 permit fee for owner-occupied single-family homes; $25 for others. Apply via brookhavenga.gov Project Portal.