Permit Requirements for Harrison, Georgia
For Plumbing projects in Harrison, determining the correct permitting authority depends on whether the project site is located within the incorporated city limits or in an unincorporated area of Washington County.
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Most jurisdictions require permits for Plumbing work to ensure safety and code compliance. The governing body responsible for issuing these permits varies by specific location:
General Plumbing Guidelines
Permits are usually required for new installations, structural modifications, or major repairs. While minor maintenance or cosmetic updates may be exempt, landowners should always verify local codes before work begins.
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If you have found a direct link to a permit portal or a specific local ordinance for Plumbing in this area, please submit an update.
Because Harrison is located within Washington County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:
Georgia, Washington County Plumbing Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas
Washington County Building & Safety Divisions
Washington County, Georgia, implements a development permit procedure for properties in unincorporated areas, which began on January 1, 2014. The Washington County Board of Assessors handles development permits, E-911 addresses, county right-of-way (driveway) permits, and mobile home transport permits. The Washington County Board of Health issues septic tank permits. For utility company right-of-way encroachments (other than driveways), contact the Director of Public Works at the Washington County Road Department.
Rules for Properties in Unincorporated Areas
In unincorporated Washington County, a development permit is required for various construction activities. This includes new or used mobile homes, residential or commercial construction, remodels, new outbuildings over 400 square feet, new RV parks, mobile home parks, subdivisions with private roads, and new or rebuilt driveways. A valid E-911 address is necessary before applying for a development permit. Septic tank permits are also required for structures intended for human occupancy and are issued by the Board of Health under state regulations. A site visit is typically required before construction begins for development permits, with a turnaround time of 5 to 10 business days. Septic permits may take up to 20 business days. Starting any development activities without an approved permit is a violation of county ordinances and may result in fines.
Washington County does not have zoning regulations in its unincorporated areas. However, building regulations do apply to areas subject to flooding, flood zones, and areas around streams, creeks, rivers, and bodies of water, as outlined in the Code of Ordinances Chapters 8 and 18.
Permit Fees
- E-911 Address Application: $50
- Non-habitable structure over 400 sq ft: $50
- Driveway Permit: $50
- Residential Development (including mobile homes): $85
- Commercial Development: $300
- Subdivisions, RV parks, and mobile home parks: $300
Resources to Learn More
The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within Georgia:
Georgia Plumbing Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines
Plumbing Codes and Legislation in Georgia
In Georgia, plumbing standards are governed by the state's mandatory construction codes. As of January 1, 2026, the state has adopted the 2024 International Plumbing Code (IPC) as the foundation for its plumbing requirements, supplemented by specific Georgia State Amendments. For one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not exceeding three stories in height, the 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) with Georgia Amendments also applies to plumbing installations.
Primary State Agency
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is the primary state agency responsible for the adoption and maintenance of the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes. Under the authority granted by O.C.G.A. § 8-2-20 through § 8-2-26, the DCA facilitates the adoption process, which includes review by the State Codes Advisory Committee and final approval by the Board of Community Affairs. These codes are mandatory statewide, meaning they apply to all construction regardless of whether they are locally enforced.
Resources to Learn More