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

A building permit is required in Decatur for new fence installation. Permits are processed through the Community Core permitting system at communitycore.com. The Building and Inspections Division reviews fence permits for compliance with UDO Article 7 standards.

Fence height in Decatur is regulated by the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), Article 7 (Site Development). Typical limits: 4 feet maximum in front yards; 6 feet maximum in rear and side yards. Specific district standards may vary. Permits required for new fence installation.

Georgia follows the 'good neighbor' fence doctrine. No specific Decatur ordinance requires neighbor consent before installing a fence, but the fence must be placed on the installer's property. Boundary disputes are civil matters. Cost sharing for party fences is subject to mutual agreement.

Residential swimming pools in Decatur must comply with Georgia pool barrier requirements under the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2018 Edition (adopted by Decatur). Pool must be fully enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches tall. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.

Above-ground pools in Decatur deeper than 24 inches require the same 48-inch barrier fencing as in-ground pools under the ISPSC 2018. Pools on decks with locking gates or removed ladders may satisfy barrier requirements. Building permit required for pools with depths over 24 inches.

Pool safety in Decatur is governed by the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (2018) and Georgia Residential Code. Pools require proper filtration, drainage, and electrical bonding. All pool electrical work must be permitted and inspected. Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act applies to drain covers.

ADUs are permitted in Decatur since 2012 in residential zones (R-85, R-60, R-50, RM-18, RM-22, RM-43). Max size is 800 sq ft or 40% of main home, up to 1,200 sq ft absolute maximum. Owner must occupy either the main home or ADU for at least 8 months/year. Two bedrooms maximum. 4-foot setbacks required.

Garage conversions to living space in Decatur require a building permit and must meet UDO residential standards. Converting to an ADU is permitted subject to ADU rules. Converted garages must comply with building codes for insulation, egress, and fire separation. Loss of required parking spaces must be addressed.

Decatur regulates carports as accessory structures under the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), with side and rear setbacks of approximately four feet from property lines in most residential districts, height capped at the lesser of 20 feet or the principal structure, lot coverage subject to district maximums, and a building permit required from the city under the Georgia State Minimum Standard Residential Code.

Accessory structures including storage sheds in Decatur are regulated under UDO Article 7 (Site Development) and Article 2 (Residential Use Standards). Sheds must meet setback requirements (typically 5 feet from rear and side lot lines) and are limited in height and footprint relative to the main dwelling.

Backyard fire pits and recreational fires are generally permitted in Decatur for residential use. Fires must be contained in a non-combustible fire pit or chiminea, kept small, and attended at all times. Georgia Forestry Commission burn permit not required for recreational campfires.

Open burning in Georgia is regulated by GAEPD Rule 391-3-1-.02(5) and the Georgia Forestry Commission (free burn permit required). Decatur's UDO, Article 9 (Environmental Protection) also includes stormwater and environmental standards. Recreational fires in backyards generally allowed with conditions.

Tree removal in Decatur is strictly regulated under UDO §9.1.17. A permit is required to remove any protected tree (6+ inch DBH). Residential property owners may remove up to 3 healthy protected trees per 18-month period with a Tree Information Permit. Minimum 60% canopy coverage required for single-family lots.

Outdoor water use in Decatur is supplied by DeKalb County Watershed Management. Georgia Water Stewardship Act (2010) and EPD drought-level restrictions apply. During drought, outdoor watering may be restricted to specific days and hours. Check DeKalb County Watershed for current status.

Decatur has strict tree protection ordinances under UDO Article 9 (Environmental Protection), Section 9.1. Trimming of protected trees (6+ inch DBH) may require notification or a permit. Damaging a protected tree without authorization results in mandatory canopy replacement at 2x the area removed.