Building Services

Hours:
Monday through Friday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Inspections:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Inspection requests must be submitted by 3:30pm to receive next-day inspections. 

Address:
Acworth City Hall
4415 Center Street
Acworth, GA 30101

Contact List:

Effective January 1, 2026
• International Building Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• International Residential Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• International Fire Code, 2024 Edition
• International Plumbing Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• International Mechanical Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• International Fuel Gas Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• National Electrical Code, 2023 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)
• International Energy Conservation Code, 2015 Edition (with Georgia Supplements and Amendments)
• International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2024 Edition (with Georgia Amendments)

Click Here to visit our Construction Permit Self-Service

• Building permits – new construction, additions, remodeling, and decks
• Electrical permits – installation, repair, or modification
• Plumbing permits – water, sewer, and gas systems
• Mechanical permits – HVAC systems and equipment
• Demolition permits – removal of structures
• Sign permits – installation of signage
• Temporary permits – tents, trailers, or temporary uses

The City of Acworth Building Services is responsible for administering and enforcing the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes, as well as related permitting and inspection procedures for buildings within the city. The primary purpose of permitting is to reduce the risks associated with unsafe construction practices and to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of residents and the public. Obtaining a permit helps prevent future issues related not only to building construction, but also to compliance with other laws and ordinances, including zoning, development regulations, stormwater management, and floodplain management. Starting any construction activity without obtaining the required permit(s) is subject to a penalty of 100 percent of the standard permit fee, in addition to the required permit fees, per Sec. 18-56(g)(2) of the City of Acworth Code of Ordinances.

The department inspects all phases of residential and commercial construction, including foundation, framing, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing installations. A building permit is typically required for most construction activities, excluding ordinary repairs such as replacing shingles, siding, or windows, as well as painting, floor coverings, or minor routine maintenance. Structural changes—such as altering roof design, moving walls, additions, decks/porches, and basement finishes—require a building permit. Permits are required for all applicable electrical, plumbing, and mechanical (HVAC) work. All codes and ordinances must be fully met. Work found to be noncompliant will require correction and proper permitting. In emergency situations where city offices are closed, state-licensed plumbers, electricians, or conditioned air contractors may proceed with necessary repairs, provided a permit application is submitted on the next business day.

Most commercial developments require review by multiple departments, including Building, Planning & Zoning, Engineering, Fire Marshal, Water & Sewer, and Environmental Health. Plans for assembly, educational, and institutional occupancies; buildings three stories or more in height; and structures 5,000 square feet or larger must bear the seal of a registered architect or engineer licensed in the State of Georgia. For all other structures, submittals must include certification from the applicant stating that a specific state law exemption allows preparation by a non-registered individual.

In general, single-family dwelling plans do not require certification by a registered architect or engineer. However, the department may require professional review if concerns arise regarding structural integrity or life safety.

If there is any uncertainty about whether a permit is required, contact Building Services before proceeding at building@acworth-ga.gov or (770) 974-2032.

The department’s goal is to ensure safe, consistent, and high-quality construction. Courtesy inspections are available upon request.

After permits are issued, inspections must occur before covering any work, such as concrete placement, insulation, or wall/ceiling finishes.

Typical Inspection Types:

• Building:
  • Footing/Foundation
  • Framing
  • Final (project is complete and/or building is ready for occupancy)
• Electrical:
  • Underground
  • Rough-in
  • Meter Set (temporary power)
  • Temp-to-Perm (permanent power)
  • Final
• Plumbing:
  • Underground (pressure test required for sanitary drain lines)
  • Rough-in (pressure test required for supply and drain lines)
  • Final
• Mechanical:
  • Underground
  • Rough-in
  • Final
• Gas:
  • Underground
  • Rough-in (pressure test required)
  • Meter set
  • Final

No work may proceed beyond any inspection stage without receiving written approval from Building Services following inspection.

• Swimming pools, tubs, and spas
• Solar installations
• Decks
• Signs
• Accessibility compliance
• Property maintenance

Exemptions do not authorize work that violates any applicable codes or ordinances.

Permits are not required for:

• Non-habitable accessory storage buildings under 200 square feet (setback requirements and erosion control must still be considered)
• Fences
• Retaining walls under 4 feet (with conditions)
• Sidewalks and driveways
• Interior finish work (painting, flooring, cabinets, etc.)
• Shallow prefabricated pools (<24 inches)
• Playground equipment
• Decks not exceeding 200 square feet in area, which are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point, are not attached to a dwelling or townhouse and do not serve the emergency egress exit door