Georgia license and permit basics for home projects

The Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, under the Secretary of State, licenses electrical contractors, master and journeyman plumbers, conditioned air (HVAC) contractors, low-voltage contractors, and utility contractors. The State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors licenses residential and general contractors for projects over $2,500 in combined labor and materials.

Roofers, painters, landscapers, drywall contractors, and handymen are not licensed by the state. They are exempt specialty contractors. Some cities and counties impose their own requirements, so check with your local government and lean on insurance and references.

There is no statewide permit office. Permits are issued by the city or county building department where the property sits, under the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes. The same job can be handled differently in neighboring jurisdictions, so confirm the rules for your exact address.

Water heater replacements almost always require a plumbing permit, plus a gas or electrical permit where applicable, and an inspection. Electrical panel upgrades and new circuits require an electrical permit. Roof replacement rules vary by jurisdiction, from a full permit to none unless structural work is involved.

Licensed contractors pull permits for the work they perform. Homeowners can pull permits for work they do themselves on their own primary residence, but they cannot hire someone to do the work under a homeowner permit. Best practice: confirm the plan with your local building department before starting.

Search for the contractor's name or license number through the Georgia Secretary of State's licensing division. The lookup is free and takes a minute. If the license is missing or expired, move on.