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When a permit is required
Permit triggers and exempt work for Lithonia
The city building permits page states permit guidance and inspection scheduling for building work. Permit application covers building and trade permits.
Note: No city-specific exemption list was located on the public building permit page. Confirm minor work directly with the city before proceeding.
- Building permit application
- Plans and supporting documents listed on the form
- Contractor license numbers
- Homeowner declaration and affidavit if owner-builder
- Any zoning or historic approvals required for the site
- Building code
- City planning page still references the International Building Code, 2018 edition, with Georgia amendments, but statewide Georgia minimum standard codes are mandatory. Confirm current 2026 DCA implementation status directly with the city when applying.
- Permit validity
- The printable permit application states the permit is automatically void if construction is not commenced within 180 days of issuance.
- Owner-builder
- Homeowners may file using the Homeowners Declaration Form and Homeowner Building Permit Affidavit.
- Contractor requirements
- Permit application requests general contractor and trade contractor license numbers. Georgia state licensure rules apply.
Application process
Typical processing: Plan reviews can take 1 to 2 business days. Otherwise the application is processed upon receipt of payment.
- 01 Research whether zoning, historic district, or overlay approvals are needed before permit filing.
- 02 Complete the universal building/trade permit application and gather the other required documents identified on the form.
- 03 Submit the application in person at 6920 Main Street or by email to cityclerk@lithoniacity.org.
- 04 The city reviews and invoices the application.
- 05 Pay the invoice online at lithoniapay.com or in person.
- 06 Receive the permit by email or pick it up in person along with the inspection card.
- 07 Request inspections with SafeBuilt by email or phone.
Typical processing time: Plan reviews can take 1 to 2 business days. Otherwise the application is processed upon receipt of payment.
Fee schedule
Lithonia building permit fees
Invoice may be paid online at lithoniapay.com or in person by credit card or cash.
Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.
Required inspections
Scheduling and sequence
- ganortheastinspections@safebuilt.com (email)
- 770-817-0696 (phone)
- Time windows
- Requests received before 4:00 p.m. are conducted the next regular business day. Lithonia inspections are performed in the afternoon and contractor may request a 1 to 2 hour courtesy call.
Typical sequence: Foundation/site inspections as applicable; Rough building/trade inspections; Additional discipline inspections; Final inspection.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Lithonia permits
01 Do I need a building permit in Lithonia, GA? ▸
02 How much does a building permit cost in Lithonia, GA? ▸
03 How do I apply for a building permit in Lithonia, GA? ▸
04 How long does it take to get a building permit in Lithonia, GA? ▸
05 How do I schedule a building inspection in Lithonia, GA? ▸
Educational reference. Permit rules and fees change — confirm current requirements directly with City of Lithonia Building Permits / City Clerk before applying. Jaspector is not legal advice.