Brookhaven, Georgia Zoning & Land Use Guide
Official references and local checks
Use the official references below to identify the rules that apply to your address, then confirm parcel-specific requirements with the local authority before filing an application.
Official references
- Population:
- 56,795
- State building code:
- 2012 Georgia State Amendments to IBC(statewide default)
- State ADU law:
- No statewide override; local rules apply
- FEMA flood map:
- Search flood zones
- Planning department:
- City of Brookhaven Community Development Department
- Municipal code:
- View code online
- Zoning map:
- View local zoning map
Before you apply
- Call the City of Brookhaven Community Development Department: (404) 637-0500
- Search the municipal code for the chapter that covers your zoning district and proposed use.
- Use the local zoning map to look up your parcel's zoning designation before applying for a permit.
- Check FEMA flood zone for your parcel — flood-zone status changes setbacks, foundation requirements, and insurance.
- Check your HOA CC&Rs and recorded deed restrictions — they are common in Brookhaven and frequently restrict ADUs, fences, and exterior changes beyond what zoning allows.
Key Zoning Facts
Brookhaven is a city in western DeKalb County, Georgia, incorporated in December 2012. With a population of approximately 56,795 (2020 Census), it is one of the most populous cities in DeKalb County. The Community Development Department performs five essential services: planning and zoning; building inspections; land development; code enforcement; and fire marshal. The department is located at 2665 Buford Highway, PEP Building, Brookhaven, GA 30324, and can be reached at (404) 637-0500.
Brookhaven's zoning is codified in Chapter 27 of the Code of Ordinances, which established a new RS (Residential Single-family) series of zoning districts upon incorporation, replacing the legacy DeKalb County designations. The city maintains an interactive Zone Lookup Tool at https://maps.brookhavenga.gov/zonelookup/.
Development Process
Development in Brookhaven generally requires obtaining the appropriate permits from the Community Development Department. The process typically involves:
- Zoning Verification — Use the Zone Lookup Tool at https://maps.brookhavenga.gov/zonelookup/ or contact the department at (404) 637-0500
- Electronic Plan Submission — Submit applications, plans, and fees through CityWorks ProjectPortal at https://cityworks.brookhavenga.gov/ProjectPortal
- Site Plan Review — Commercial and multi-family projects require site plan review
- Building Permit — Apply for a building permit with construction documents
- Inspections — Schedule required inspections during construction
- Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain final approval before occupying the structure
Key Considerations
Before starting any development project in Brookhaven, property owners should:
- Verify the zoning classification using the Zone Lookup Tool
- Review setback, height, and lot coverage requirements in Chapter 27 of the Code of Ordinances
- Check for any overlay districts or special regulations
- Determine if the property is in a flood zone using FEMA's flood map service
- Confirm whether HOA covenants or deed restrictions apply
- Contact the Community Development Department for pre-application guidance
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Brookhaven and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Zoning codes are subject to change. Always verify current regulations with the Brookhaven Community Development Department at (404) 637-0500 or at https://www.brookhavenga.gov before making development decisions.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Brookhaven
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA flood mapping: check parcel-specific flood-zone status
- View FEMA Flood Map
State — Georgia
- Building Code: Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes (2012 IBC with Georgia amendments)
County — DeKalb County
- Role: Brookhaven is an independent city in western DeKalb County, incorporated in 2012. DeKalb County administers property records, tax assessment, and planning for unincorporated DeKalb County areas outside Brookhaven's city limits.
City / Municipal
The municipality's zoning ordinance, building-code enforcement, and local permits form the primary local layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- Private covenants, deed restrictions, condominium rules, or association rules can impose requirements beyond zoning.
- Check HOA CC&Rs and deed restrictions for additional requirements.
Statewide Context (Georgia)
Local data for Brookhaven is limited. The following state-level facts apply across Georgia and are inherited by this page until city-specific details are verified.
- State Building Code
- 2012 Georgia State Amendments to IBC
- State ADU Preemption
- No statewide override
- Coastal Zone
- Yes
- Wildfire Zones
- No
Permit Costs & Timelines
Check Current Permit Fees & Timelines
Permit fees and review times can vary by project type, scope, valuation, and required approvals. Check the current schedule with the local permitting authority before filing.
Check current Brookhaven permit information →Official Sources
City-specific