FAQs
When does my permit expire?
Once issued, permits are valid for 180 days from the date of the last inspection passed. A 90-day permit extension may be granted by the Building Official after reviewing a written request justifying the extension. Permit applications are voided if the permit has not been issued within 180 days of the date of application.
Will my residential property taxes increase if annexed into the City of Brookhaven?
No, property taxes are lower in the City of Brookhaven. The net tax rates for property owners in the City limits of Brookhaven is 39.483 mills in 2022. The net tax rate for property owners in unincorporated DeKalb County is 43.890 mills in 2022. The difference in millage between the City and County is 4.407 mills.
A property located in unincorporated DeKalb County with an appraised value of $500,000 would have an annual savings of $881.40 in property taxes annually within the City of Brookhaven based on the lower millage rate.
The City of Brookhaven currently has a $36,000 standard homestead exemption, compared to DeKalb County’s standard homestead exemption $10,000.
The City of Brookhaven applies the homestead exemption to its bonds outstanding whereas DeKalb County does not.
The City of Brookhaven also has a senior homestead exemption for those that qualify under the current DeKalb County rules. The City’s senior exemption is currently set at $130,800.
How do I obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (CO)?
No building or structure or portion thereof may be occupied or change in the type of occupancy made until a CO is issued. Request the CO from the permit technicians after all final building, site, and fire marshal inspection have been passed and any required documents submitted. Temporary CO’s are occasionally approved by the Building Official after reviewing a written request stating justification; conditions may be attached. For commercial permits, the CO must be issued before an Occupational Tax Certificate can be obtained.
Will property taxes on commercial real property increase if annexed into the City of Brookhaven?
For a Commercial Property in the City of Brookhaven the 2022 property tax millage was 43.483 mills. This includes being part of the City’s Special Service District which provides additional benefits to commercial properties.
For a Commercial Property in the DeKalb Unincorporated Area the 2022 property tax millage was 43.890 mills.
The difference in millage between the City of Brookhaven and DeKalb County is 0.407 mills. For a property such as the Toco Hills Promenade located at 2947 N Druid Hills Road, this would mean an annual savings of $1,614.07 based on 2022 taxable assessed value.
Will my senior tax exemption be impacted if annexed into Brookhaven?
No, in fact seniors get a far greater exemption in the City of Brookhaven versus DeKalb County. The City of Brookhaven currently offers a $130,800 exemption going to $160,000 in 2024 for those that qualify under the DeKalb County eligibility rules.
Do I need a permit to build a retaining wall?
All retaining walls require permits. Those over 4 feet high require engineered drawings and a building permit. Walls less than 48 inches high require a Minor Site Permit.
What is the process for verifying an annexation application?
The Community Development Department staff reviews the submitted applications for required documents.
Petitions are reviewed by legal counsel to check against voter registration rolls.
Do I need a permit to build or replace my deck or finish my basement?
Yes, there are numerous codes issues related to deck construction and basement finishes. Plan reviews and inspections ensure the safety of present and future occupants.
What is the process for approving the annexation application
Once a completed application is submitted to the City, Staff analyzes the application and service delivery strategies for the annexed area. The staff report and service delivery report are forwarded to the City Council for consideration. Rezoning of the property is required when property is annexed into the City. The rezoning portion of the application requires an additional review and recommendation from the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission’s recommendation are forwarded to the Council as part of the rezoning application.
Do I need a permit for roofing or siding replacement?
If structural work is involved, such as replacing sheathing, rafters, roof trusses, or studs, a permit its required. If there is no structural work, roofing and siding (i.e. replacing shingles, repairing siding) may be done without a permit. NOTE: Under current codes, old asphalt shingles must be removed before new asphalt shingles are installed.
Will my special use permit (i.e., my home-based business) be honored if annexed into Brookhaven?
Yes, all special use permits and underlying zoning conditions will be carried over with an approved annexation. Additionally, any overlays or neighborhood conditions imposed by DeKalb the County will also remain.
Home-based business will need to transfer business license to the City of Brookhaven.
If a use or structure in the annexed area is non-conforming at the time of annexation it would be considered legal non-conforming and can remain as specified in Article XII Nonconformities
Do I need a permit to replace plumbing or electrical fixtures in the same location?
No, if there are no changes to the plumbing lines, wiring, or the location of fixtures or switches. Replacing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, dishwashers, disposals, ceiling fans, or lights, does not require a permit. However, a permit is required to replace a water heater, heating and air conditioning equipment, or meter base.
Will my zoning change if annexed into Brookhaven?
Upon annexation of new properties into the City of Brookhaven, all properties will be rezoned to the ANX district. For the following purposes:
- Accommodate the annexation of properties from DeKalb County into the City of Brookhaven carrying over all existing entitlements including all existing zoning conditions, overlay requirements (e.g., Residential Infill Overlay Districts), etc. as adopted under the County;
- Promote consistency between the existing zoning classification and land use of properties to be annexed and the City of Brookhaven’s zoning ordinance;
- Ensure that the annexation and subsequent rezoning places no additional burden on DeKalb County infrastructure and provided services from the annexation of property into the City of Brookhaven;
- Provide that owners of annexed property have the opportunity to become acquainted with zoning ordinances of the City of Brookhaven; and
- Provide that the City of Brookhaven has ample opportunity to add annexed property to the Comprehensive Plan.
Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen or bathroom?
Most typical remodels in Brookhaven require a permit. If the layout is unchanged and all cabinets and fixtures are replaced in the same location, no permit is needed, and no inspections are needed. You will need a permit if you are changing walls, replacing drywall, adding fixtures, or changing the layout. Cosmetic work such as tiling and painting does not require a permit.
Do I need a permit for exterior doors and windows?
If the size of the opening is to be changed, or a new door or window is added, a permit is required. Replacing doors and windows of the same size does not require a permit.
Do I need a permit to replace my water heater?
Yes, water heaters are under the purview of the plumbing and gas codes requiring permits and inspections to ensure a safe installation. State licensing is also required if a tradesperson is completing the work.
Do I need a permit to replace my heating, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC)?
Yes, HVAC systems are under the purview of the mechanical and gas codes requiring permits and inspections to ensure a safe installation. State licensing is also required if a tradesperson is completing the work.
Do I need a pool permit?
The City of Brookhaven requires permits for pools, and there are different requirements for private pools and public pools. Both private and public pools require a permit and compliance with the International Swimming Pool Code. In addition, a public pool requires approval with DeKalb County regulations, and must be approved and permitted through the City of Brookhaven. For a public pool, approval stamps from DeKalb County are required on the pool drawings prior to submission to the City of Brookhaven.