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Code Enforcement

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Code Enforcement

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About Code Enforcement

Code Enforcement is a service provided by the County to protect and improve the health, safety, and quality of life of its residents, businesses, and visitors. 

The Code Enforcement Division works to eliminate blight, protect property values, lower crime, encourage pride and build a sense of community, and support economic development through education, outreach, and enforcement of the County’s standards for property maintenance, signs, zoning, land use, and business regulations. 

Common code violations include junk vehicles, open or outdoor storage (including trash and debris), tall grass and weeds, exterior building and fence/wall maintenance, graffiti, vehicle parking, operating businesses in incorrect zoning districts, and running a business without an occupation tax certificate. 

Code Enforcement inspects properties within unincorporated Gwinnett County and does not address code violations within city limits. 

For properties located within a city limit, please contact that city.  

Violation Process and Penalties

Upon discovery of a code violation, a Courtesy Notice is typically issued as an initial step to gain voluntary compliance. It is designed to educate property owners and residents of the violation, explain the corrective action required, and provide an expected date of completion.  

If compliance is not achieved, a citation may be issued to appear in Recorders Court where fines up to $1000 and/or 60 days imprisonment may be assessed per violation. Citations are issued only as a final means to correct violations. Learn more about the complaint/inspection process. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Residential

Does Gwinnett County enforce codes or issues occurring inside a home?


No. Gwinnett County does not enforce any type of housing codes or issues occurring inside the home. 

Is Code Enforcement responsible for the enforcement of flowerbeds, shrubs, and trees’ maintenance?


No. Code Enforcement cannot require an individual to maintain flowerbed areas, or any type of tree or shrubbery. 

Who do I report parking violations too?


Parking violations on the street or on any county roadway should be reported to Gwinnett Police through the non-emergency line at 770.513.5700. 

Is Code Enforcement responsible for the enforcement of the homeowners’ associations covenants and rules?


No. Code Enforcement can only enforce the County Ordinance(s), not homeowners’ associations covenants and rules.  

Can I file a complaint without providing my name or contact information?


Yes. You can submit a complaint without leaving your information. 

Can I operate a business from my home?


Yes, but ensure the county requirements for a customary home occupation (UDO 230-130.3.Q) are complied with. The most common violations include display or sale of products, group assembly, and no business license. 

Are commercial vehicles allowed in residential areas?


No. Commercial vehicles may not be parked outside homes, apartments, or other residences.

The parking of the following vehicles is prohibited: any vehicle for hire including but not limited to limousines, taxis, box trucks, flatbed trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, transport wreckers, tandem axle trucks, cab-on-chassis trucks, tractor trailers, wheeled attachments, pull behind cement mixers, or trailers, bucket trucks, buses, earth moving machinery, semi-trailers, and this restriction also applies to any vehicle over 20 feet in length, or 7 feet in height, or 7 feet in width.

Exceptions: An automobile, pick-up truck, van, or SUV used to provide daily transportation to and from work (except those vehicles that fall under the requirements for Section 230-130 Customary Home Occupation) and a commercial vehicle that is parked temporarily in conjunction with a commercial service, sale, or delivery.

Commercial

Where can I place my freestanding signs?


Signs are allowed to be placed on private property outside of the public right of way. To view information on the public right-of-way in your area/location you can visit the county GIS system.

Signs are not allowed within any public right-of-way or attached to any tree, rock, post, curb, utility pole or street sign, and cannot be placed on property without the owner’s permission. Check with the Development Review section of the Planning and Development Department at 678.518.6000 for permitting requirements.

Can I have a banner for my business?


Yes. You can have a banner, but it requires a permit from Planning & Development Department.

  • Only one per public street frontage and maintained in good condition
  • Must be individually attached to a pole, mast, or arm
  • Signs must be placed on private property, not in the public right-of-way
  • Each banner shall not exceed 16 square feet in area

 

What licenses and documents are required before a business may open to the public?


Each person engaged in any business, trade, profession, or occupation in unincorporated Gwinnett County shall have an Occupation Tax Certificate issued by the Licensing and Revenue section of Planning and Development for such business, trade, profession, or occupation. 

In addition to the Occupation Tax Certificate, a Certificate of Occupancy issued by the Department of Planning and Development must be obtained. The actual Business License and CO is to be kept on display in a conspicuous place and must be valid at all times.

Contact Us

Main: 770.513.5020
Hotline: 770.513.5004
Email: CodeEnforcement@GwinnettCounty.com

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