I have permitting / inspection Questions
When is a building permit required?
A permit shall be obtained before beginning construction, erection, alteration, or repair to a building or structure, mechanical system, gas system, plumbing system, electrical system, and energy conservation system, other than ordinary repairs. Permits shall be obtained before beginning work. Permits for emergency work must be obtained within 24 hours after work commences or the next business day.
What construction codes does the City of Cornelia enforce?
Cornelia enforces State-mandated construction and fire codes, codes, as well as City of Cornelia Codes, and some Federal requirements, such as accessibility. For questions about codes, please contact the Building Official or the Building Plan Reviewer.
What is the status of my permit?
After allowing 14 business days for review, if you have not received review comments or approval, please get in touch with the City of Cornelia’s Marshal’s Office to check the status of your application.
Do I need a Georgia Contractor’s license to obtain a building permit?
Generally, yes. The City of Cornelia enforces Georgia state contractor licensing laws.  Contractors must provide their state license and business license to pull permits.  There are exceptions, such as when a homeowner performs work on their own home and provides a notarized Self-work Affidavit, or for limited specialty trades.
What will my permit cost?
Permit fees, including minimum fees and review fees, are listed in the City’s Fee Schedules below. Valuation is calculated using the most recent version of the ICC Data Valuation table.Â
Cornelia Commercial Fee Schedule | Cornelia Residential Permit Fee Schedule
What inspections are required?
The required inspections vary by permit type and scope of work. Rough-in and final building inspections are combined inspections, meaning all trades are inspected simultaneously as the building is being constructed and must be ready at the same time.Â
New construction, including additions, decks, and accessory structures, as well as demolitions, requires initial and final site inspections. Commercial construction requires inspections by the Marshal’s Office and the  City Fire Inspector. Information is provided when permits are issued.
How do I request an inspection?
All inspection requests can be made in person, by email, or by phone.
Are there re-inspection fees for failed inspections?
All inspection requests can be made in person, by email, or by phone.
Can I hire my own third-party inspector?
No, the City of Cornelia does not permit third-party inspections. It is the City’s policy to perform inspections within 48 hours.
When does my permit expire?
Once issued, permits are valid for 180 days from the date of the last inspection passed. The Building Official may grant an additional 180-day permit extension after review. Permit applications are voided if the permit has not been issued within 180 days of the application date, and the applicant must reapply.
How do I obtain a Certificate of Occupancy (CO)?
No building or structure or portion thereof may be occupied until a CO is issued. Additionally, a new CO must be obtained with any change in the type of occupancy or change in ownership. Request the CO application from the City Clerk. The CO will be completed after all inspections have been conducted and passed, and any required documents have been submitted. Temporary COs 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.
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.Â
Do I need a permit to build or replace my deck or finish my basement?
Yes, there are numerous code issues related to deck construction and basement finishes. Plan reviews and inspections ensure the safety of present and future occupants.
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 is 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.
Do I need a permit to replace plumbing or electrical fixtures in the same location?
No, as long as 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.
Do I need a permit to remodel my kitchen or bathroom?
Most typical remodels in Cornelia 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, doing electrical or plumbing work, 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 part 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 part 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 Cornelia 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.
