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Building Inspection & Code Enforcement
In Emanuel County, the foundation of community safety and development is more than a concept—it’s a commitment. At the heart of this mission stands our Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department, a team dedicated to upholding the standards that define Emanuel’s character, integrity, and growth.
Though small, this is one of Emanuel County’s busiest departments, combining the expertise of both Building Inspection and Code Enforcement to handle a wide array of responsibilities.
Led by Code Enforcement Officer, Building Inspector, and Floodplain Administrator George Frix, along with one other dedicated officer, this duo brings together extensive knowledge and experience to address the needs of a growing community. The county’s decision to integrate these two services under one department reflects the close relationship between them; both roles require a deep understanding of local codes, construction safety, and zoning laws to keep Emanuel County safe, compliant, and orderly and to provide citizens, businesses, and builders of with competent, consistent, and timely inspections. As a result, every building, permit, and project benefits from their attention to detail, strict adherence to codes, and unwavering commitment to the public good.
These professionals don’t just review blueprints or issue citations; they’re deeply involved in the community, working directly with homeowners, contractors, and developers to guide projects toward compliance.
However, their work extends beyond building inspections. They’re actively engaged in issuing mobile home permits, overseeing safety standards, and even assisting with the alcohol licensing process, a step that requires meticulous inspections to ensure establishments meet local, state, and federal requirements.
As part of their mandate, the Building Inspection & Code Enforcement team addresses violations that range from structural issues to zoning non-compliance. They enforce local ordinances and collaborate closely with Emanuel County Public Works, the sheriff's office, animal services, and emergency responders like 911, ensuring all facets of county operations are aligned in maintaining a safe and orderly environment. The team also works with city leaders, municipal building inspectors, and fire marshals across Emanuel's towns, creating a unified approach to safety and compliance across the county.
Whether investigating complaints, issuing citations for code violations, or representing the county in court for offenses related to public health and safety, this department takes its role seriously. Their influence touches everything from litter control and animal regulations to ensuring that properties and buildings meet the highest standards. Their impact is profound—preserving the community’s well-being and fostering the orderly development that makes Emanuel County a great place to live, work, and grow.
- Does Emanuel have county-specific zoning requirements?
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Emanuel County does not have its own county-specific zoning regulations, offering greater flexibility in land use for residents and businesses. We are proud to be one of the few counties in Georgia that does not impose additional zoning restrictions. However, we still adhere to state and federal zoning laws to ensure safety and compliance with broader regulations.
- When is a permit required?
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A permit is required for most residential, commercial, and industrial projects in Emanuel County, including new construction, additions, renovations, and manufactured home setups. Additionally, permits are necessary for structures over 200 square feet such as garages, pole barns, storage buildings, and sheds as well as for moving site-built homes, installing signs, constructing towers, building swimming pools and enclosures, and adding decks over 200 square feet.
- When is a permit NOT required?
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You do not need a permit for cosmetic and finishing work like painting, wallpapering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, and similar interior updates. Fences under six feet high and retaining walls under three feet also do not require a permit.
- Do I need a mobile home permit?
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Yes, a mobile home permit is required to ensure that the structure meets safety and compliance standards. This application process includes providing information about the mobile home’s age, condition, and intended location. Forms are available online as fillable PDFs or can be downloaded and submitted to our office.
- Where do I get a septic tank or well permit?
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Septic tank and well permits are issued by the Emanuel County Health Department. You can contact them at 478-237-7501 or 50 Highway 56 North, Swainsboro.
- Can I live in a tiny home?
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Yes—sort of. If it's a Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA)-approved structure, it is permitted as a residence. However, it cannot be a storage building.
- Can I live in an RV?
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No. We require residential structures to be approved by HUD or DCA, and RVs do not meet these standards.
- Are there age requirements for mobile homes in Emanuel County?
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Yes. We do not permit mobile homes built in 1977 or earlier. Mobile homes from 1978 or newer are allowed, provided they are structurally sound.
- I want to subdivide property. What are the road frontage requirements in Emanuel County?
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Five acres or less must have at least 200 feet of road frontage.
Five acres or more must have at least 60 feet of road frontage.
- What are the minimum size requirements for property tracts in Emanuel County?
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Tracts must be at least 200 feet by 200 feet, or a minimum of 1 acre.
- What are common reasons for failing a building inspection?
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Common reasons for failing a building inspection include issues with electrical wiring, plumbing, structural integrity, and fire safety. Our team will provide feedback on any violations found and help you understand the steps needed to bring your project up to code.
- How do I apply for an alcohol license, and what inspections are involved?
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To apply for an alcohol license, contact the county clerk to begin the process. Our team is involved in inspecting the establishment to ensure it meets safety and compliance standards as required by local, state, and federal regulations. This is one of the last steps in the process. The county clerk will provide details about the process, including a timeline for your inspection, when you turn in your application.
- How can the Emanuel County Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department help with animal abuse or neglect?
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The Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department responds to animals in crisis in the county, working alongside the Betty Gambrell Animal Shelter, the Emanuel County Humane Society, and local law enforcement as needed. To file a report about an animal in need in the county, contact the Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department directly by phone or visit our office during business hours. For animals in the City of Swainsboro, call the staff at the shelter directly at 478-237-4040.
- How do I get a 911 address?
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To obtain a 911 address, complete the Emanuel County 911 Address Request Form. Once submitted, Emanuel County's contractor for 911 addressing, GIS1, will call you within 24 hours (excluding weekends) with your address or to obtain additional details if necessary. After verification, your address is assigned, updated in the county’s system, and added to the qPublic map.
- How will I know the person inspecting my site is really from the Emanuel County Building Inspection & Code Enforcement Department?
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Emanuel County Building Inspection & Code Enforcement employees carry badges, and they will be wearing branded county attire and arriving in a county-marked truck for all inspections.