Is Code Enforcement responsible for the enforcement of flowerbeds, shrubs, and trees’ maintenance?

No. Code Enforcement cannot require an individual to maintain flowerbed areas, or any type of tree or shrubbery.
 

Who do I report parking violations too?

Parking violations on the street or on any county roadway should be reported to Gwinnett Police through the non-emergency line at 770.513.5700.
 

Is Code Enforcement responsible for the enforcement of the homeowners’ associations covenants and rules?

No. Code Enforcement can only enforce the County Ordinance(s), not homeowners’ associations covenants and rules.
  

Can I file a complaint without providing my name or contact information?

Yes. You can submit a complaint without leaving your information.
 

Can I operate a business from my home?

Yes, but ensure the county requirements for a customary home occupation (UDO 230-130.3.Q) are complied with. The most common violations include display or sale of products, group assembly, and no business license.
 

Are commercial vehicles allowed in residential areas?

No. Commercial vehicles may not be parked outside homes, apartments, or other residences.

The parking of the following vehicles is prohibited: any vehicle for hire including but not limited to limousines, taxis, box trucks, flatbed trucks, dump trucks, tow trucks, transport wreckers, tandem axle trucks, cab-on-chassis trucks, tractor trailers, wheeled attachments, pull behind cement mixers, or trailers, bucket trucks, buses, earth moving machinery, semi-trailers, and this restriction also applies to any vehicle over 20 feet in length, or 7 feet in height, or 7 feet in width.

Exceptions: An automobile, pick-up truck, van, or SUV used to provide daily transportation to and from work (except those vehicles that fall under the requirements for Section 230-130 Customary Home Occupation) and a commercial vehicle that is parked temporarily in conjunction with a commercial service, sale, or delivery.

What is an interior property maintenance violation?

All residential rental properties in Unincorporated Gwinnett County must be maintained consistent with the International Property Maintenance Code. If your apartment or rental home is damaged, improperly maintained, unsanitary, or unsafe, there may be a violation of County codes that the property owner is required to fix.

What are some examples of interior code violations that Code Enforcement can help correct?

Interior code violations include leaking pipes, broken toilets, electrical hazards, broken windows or doors, structural damage, or any unsafe or unsanitary condition that is the responsibility of the landlord, property manager, or property owner to maintain.

Does Gwinnett County test for mold?

Gwinnett County does not test for mold, but the visible presence of mold, a water leak, or other conditions that can lead to mold are code violations. Landlords, property managers, and property owners are responsible for maintaining a safe, sanitary home.

How do I request an inspection of my home?

If you believe your apartment or rental home is unsafe or has a code violation, you can request an inspection from the Code Enforcement Division by visiting GwinnettZIP.com, calling 770.513.5004, or emailing CodeEnforcement@GwinnettCounty.com. Code Enforcement staff will reach out to you to schedule an appointment once a request has been submitted.

How are code violations typically fixed?

While some code violations can be easily fixed, like minor updates or repairs, others may require the expertise of a professional, such as an electrical, plumbing, or HVAC contractor. A building permit may also be required depending on the scope of work for the project.

What happens if an interior code violation is not fixed?

After Code Enforcement staff visits your home and determines there is a code violation, a Notice of Violation will be issued to the landlord, property manager, or property owner with a timeline to correct the violation. If the landlord fails to correct the issue, a citation may be issued to appear in Recorder’s Court where fines up to $1,000 and/or 60 days imprisonment may be assessed per violation.

Who will inspect my property?

A Gwinnett County Code Enforcement Officer will visit your property to inspect your home. They will be wearing a uniform and have visible Gwinnett County identification.

Where can I place my freestanding signs?

Signs are allowed to be placed on private property outside of the public right of way. To view information on the public right-of-way in your area/location you can visit the county GIS system.

Signs are not allowed within any public right-of-way or attached to any tree, rock, post, curb, utility pole or street sign, and cannot be placed on property without the owner’s permission. Check with the Development Review section of the Planning and Development Department at 678.518.6000 for permitting requirements.

Can I have a banner for my business?

Yes. You can have a banner, but it requires a permit from Planning & Development Department.

• Only one per public street frontage and maintained in good condition
• Must be individually attached to a pole, mast, or arm
• Signs must be placed on private property, not in the public right-of-way
• Each banner shall not exceed 16 square feet in area

 

What licenses and documents are required before a business may open to the public?

Each person engaged in any business, trade, profession, or occupation in unincorporated Gwinnett County shall have an Occupation Tax Certificate issued by the Licensing and Revenue section of Planning and Development for such business, trade, profession, or occupation. 

In addition to the Occupation Tax Certificate, a Certificate of Occupancy issued by the Department of Planning and Development must be obtained. The actual Business License and CO is to be kept on display in a conspicuous place and must be valid at all times.