Land Development
The Land Development Division manages site development review for residential and commercial projects in DeKalb County. Our team reviews land disturbance plans, subdivisions, plats, stormwater and floodplain compliance, and erosion and sediment control measures to ensure development meets engineering and environmental standards.
We assist applicants through the review process and coordinate with other agencies as required.
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Land Disturbance Permits
Required for grading, excavation, and site disturbance activities.
Subdivision & Plat Review
Subdivision of land, recombination, and final plats.
Land Disturbance Permits
Land Disturbance Permits are required for site activities such as grading, clearing, excavation, or construction that may affect soil stability, stormwater, or environmental conditions.
Common LDP Projects Include:
- New subdivisions
- Commercial site development
- Grading and excavation
- Utility installation
- Roadway improvements
Subdivisions & Plats
Subdivision and plat review ensures new lots meet zoning, design, and engineering standards.
Review Types:
- Preliminary plats
- Final plats
- Lot recombination
- Lot consolidation
Approved plats must be recorded with the Clerk of Superior Court.
Stormwater - Development Standards
Developers must design stormwater systems that manage runoff, protect water quality, and prevent downstream impacts.
Standards May Address:
- Detention/retention
- Conveyance systems
- BMPs (Best Management Practices)
- Water quality controls
For stormwater system maintenance or drainage
complaints, contact Roads and Drainage, a department of Public Works.
Erosion & Sediment Control
Projects disturbing soil must implement erosion and sediment controls to minimize environmental impacts during construction.
Required documents may include:
- E&S Plans
- NPDES documentation
- BMP details
- Monitoring forms
Floodplain Compliance
Projects located within flood hazard areas must comply with FEMA and local standards to protect life and property.
Requirements apply to:
- Structures
- Fill
- Utilities
- Subdivision
- Site improvements
Applicants must verify floodplain status using county and FEMA maps.
Plan Review Process
Applicants submit plans electronically for review.
Steps:
- Prepare plans and supporting documents
- Upload to ProjectDox
- Respond to review comments (if applicable)
- Receive approval and permits
FORMS, CHECKLISTS & GUIDES
- Land Development Site Plan Review Checklist
- Final Plat Review Checklist
- Revised Final Plat Checklist
- Certificate of Occupancy Checklist for New Homes & Large Additions
- Demolition Plan Review Checklist
- Lot Division, Lot Combination, or Boundary Line Adjustment Checklist
- Stormwater Management Checklist
- Residential Site Plan Checklist
- Sketch Plat Review Checklist
- Sewer Line Installation/Replacement Checklist
- Retaining Wall Checklist
- Non-Residential Demolition Guide
- How to Check the Status of a Project in Project Dox
- How to Upload Plans in Project Dox—1st Submittal
- How to Submit a Land Development Application
- How to Submit a Lot Div, Combination, and/or Boundary Line Adjustment Application
- How to Submit a City Civil Design Application
- How to Submit an Administrative Variance (Stream Buffer) Application
- Final Plat Review Procedures
- Requirements for Residential As-Built Surveys
- Addition To Single-Family Residential Checklist
- GIS Checklist
- Water Quality Review Checklist
Online Services
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need an LDP for minor work?
A. LDP requirements depend on project type and disturbance area. Contact our office for guidance.
Q. How do I know if my property is in a floodplain?
A. Use online mapping tools or contact staff for assistance.
Q. How long does review take?
A. Timeframes vary by project type and submittal completeness.
Contact & Hours
Location: 178 Sams Street, Decatur, GA
Land Development Email: landdevelopment@dekalbcountyga.gov
Phone: 404-371-2155 (option 7)
One-Stop Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM