Every U.S. state holds the power to create laws and regulate them according to their particular needs – which is why it is essential to consider the specific ordinances in Atlanta if you are contemplating investing in vacant properties. 

This article reviews a few important statutes you should know about to prevent fines and violations on your Atlanta vacant property investment.

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Land Development Code – Atlanta Housing Code

The Atlanta Land Development Code is a comprehensive set of regulations governing the city’s land use, zoning, and development standards, aiming to guide responsible and sustainable urban growth. Below, we’ve listed some key regulations that must be considered by vancat property owners in Atlanta.

Buildings & Structural Appurtenances

While the content of this article primarily focuses on building standards, structural designations, and fire limits, it may indirectly impact vacant property owners. The outlined regulations could influence construction and maintenance requirements within designated fire limits. Vacant property owners should be aware of these building codes, as adherence may affect property conditions, safety measures, and potential obligations when owning or managing unoccupied structures within the specified city zones. Compliance ensures alignment with city-wide safety standards and regulatory expectations.

Land Subdivision Ordinance

The Land Subdivision Ordinance governs new housing development, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. Adherence to these regulations is essential if vacant property owners intend to subdivide or develop their land. The guidelines cover aspects such as neighborhood protection, layout, housing design, open space provision, and compliance with zoning ordinances. Complying with these regulations is key to a successful legal development process.

Zoning

Understanding the Atlanta Zoning Ordinance is essential for vacant property owners, shaping land use and development standards. This ordinance, adopted in 1980, governs Atlanta’s zoning classifications, land use regulations, and development criteria. Compliance is crucial for vacant property development, guiding owners through permissible land uses and ensuring alignment with city planning objectives and regulations.

Official Zoning Map & Application of Regulations

Chapter two of the Atlanta Zoning Ordinance is indispensable for vacant property owners in Atlanta. Detailing zoning districts, regulations, and street numbering guidelines, it offers a roadmap for property use and development. Essential for compliance and informed decision-making, this guide helps vacant property owners navigate zoning complexities, ensuring strategic development aligned with city regulations and fostering optimal land use in Atlanta.

Zoning Ordinance Offenses & Public Nuisance

Part 17 of the Land Development Code outlines strict regulations and penalties for zoning violations and building conditions. Failure to comply with zoning provisions results in fines, imprisonment, or both. Public nuisances, including perilous structures, fire hazards, and unsanitary conditions, are subject to abatement orders. Vacant property owners must adhere to these codes to avoid legal consequences, ensuring community safety and compliance with city standards.

Building Code Amendments

The provisions of this Code encompass regulations for the construction, alteration, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal, and demolition of all buildings and structures, along with any appurtenances connected or attached to them. Unless specifically exempted, every building or structure must comply with the provisions outlined in this Code.

The process begins with obtaining the necessary permits for construction or alterations, accompanied by nonrefundable application fees. Notably, permit fees may be subject to refund under specific conditions, such as errors in issuance or project cancellations before initiation.

Of particular interest is the provision for building permit fee reviews for completed projects (Section 104.3.1), offering owners the opportunity to request a review if the actual construction cost significantly deviates from the calculated estimate. Temporary certificates of occupancy may be granted during this review process.

Property owners should also be mindful of conditions for permits, emphasizing adherence to approved plans and codes and the requirement to update plot plans for any changes in the lot area. Additionally, the significance of timely Certificate of Occupancy (CO) issuance is highlighted, ensuring that new buildings or altered structures conform to safety and occupancy standards.

The city’s stance on unsafe buildings (Section 105) underscores the responsibility of owners to address potential hazards promptly. Violations and penalties (Section 106) encompass a range of offenses, emphasizing the importance of compliance with Atlanta’s building code to avoid fines, imprisonment, or legal actions.

Atlanta Housing Code

The Atlanta Housing Code of 1987 outlines crucial regulations for property owners, particularly those with vacant properties. Enforced by the Director of the Bureau of Code Compliance, the code prioritizes the health, safety, and welfare of occupants and the public. Provisions cover inspections, maintenance of records, and the placarding process for occupied and vacant properties. Non-compliance invokes a range of consequences, including fines and imprisonment. Property owners must adhere to these comprehensive guidelines to ensure the well-being of the community and maintain the safety and integrity of their vacant properties in accordance with Atlanta’s housing standards.

Minimum Standards

Sec. 25 of the Atlanta Housing Code places responsibilities on property owners and tenants, emphasizing cleanliness and safety. Owners and occupants must maintain both interiors and exteriors, ensuring they are free of nuisances, junk, and combustible materials. Specific duties include controlling vegetation growth, exterminating pests, and keeping premises secure. Owners bear additional responsibilities such as complying with code sections, maintaining shared areas, and ensuring cleanliness of vacant dwellings. Tenants are accountable for maintaining units, plumbing fixtures, and providing access for routine maintenance. The code enforces penalties for non-compliance, emphasizing the shared commitment to a clean and safe living environment.

Sec. 29 of the Atlanta Housing Code outlines minimum specifications for abating interior requirements in vacant dwelling units. Within 30 days of boarding, corrective action must commence, completing within six months. Inspections begin four months post-boarding. Violations include failure to start corrective action and denying code officers access. Minimum specifications for securing vacant dwellings include window and door protocols, either using plywood or reinforced perforated steel covers. Alternative measures, such as monitoring systems, may be employed. Owners must maintain secured vacant dwellings, facing legal action for non-compliance. The standards undergo annual review, and a detailed Exhibit “A” is available for inspection.

Registration of Vacant Real Property

Article VI of the Atlanta Housing Code, “REGISTRATION OF VACANT REAL PROPERTY,” is crucial for vacant property owners. It mandates property owners to register vacant properties with the code enforcement office, specifying details like owner and agent information. The article outlines fees, electronic registration, and maintenance requirements, including securing and posting signs. Non-compliance may result in fines. This regulation ensures accountability and proper maintenance of vacant properties in Atlanta, emphasizing the responsibility of property owners in the city.

 

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Whether in new construction or rehabbing an existing property, our vacant property security systems protect your building and everything in it.

 

For more information, get in touch today.

 

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