DeKalb County does not regulate residential artificial turf installation. No permit required for replacing a lawn. HOAs may prohibit. Erosion and drainage rules apply for larger installations.
DeKalb County does not require permits for replacing residential lawns with artificial turf. Installation must not alter drainage patterns in a way that affects neighboring properties or the public right-of-way. Larger installations over 500 sq ft that involve grading may trigger erosion control requirements under the Georgia Erosion and Sedimentation Act. Proper drainage base (typically crushed stone or aggregate) should be installed to prevent ponding. DeKalb HOAs retain full authority to prohibit artificial turf under CC&Rs since Georgia has no turf/xeriscaping preemption law. In areas like Dunwoody and Brookhaven, HOA architectural review is typically required. Heat and stormwater runoff considerations apply — artificial turf can reach 150F+ in summer sun and does not absorb rainfall like natural lawn.
Altered drainage affecting neighbors: civil nuisance claim. Uncontrolled erosion during install: GA E&S Act citation. HOA violations per CC&Rs — $50-$200/month typical.
Decatur, GA
Barking dogs are covered under Decatur's general noise ordinance (Ch. 42), which lists animal noises among prohibited disturbing sounds. Animal control compl...
Decatur, GA
Construction noise in Decatur is regulated by the general noise ordinance (Ch. 42). Construction equipment is listed among covered noise sources; work should...
Decatur, GA
Decatur updated its noise ordinance effective July 1, 2025 (adopted March 3, 2025). Decibel limits: 65 dB(A) from 7:00 AM to 9:59 PM, and 60 dB(A) from 10:00...
Decatur, GA
Commercial vehicles (including large trucks and vans with commercial markings) parked in residential areas of Decatur are subject to zoning and parking regul...
Decatur, GA
Parking of recreational vehicles (RVs, boats, trailers) on residential streets or in front yards in Decatur is subject to regulations under the UDO (Article ...
Decatur, GA
Driveways in Decatur must comply with UDO site development standards (Article 7). Curb cuts require permits. Vehicles parked in driveways must not block the ...
See how Decatur's artificial turf rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.