▼

Building Permits

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a building permit?

Following zoning verification by the zoning administrator and design review by the council, an application for a permit and construction drawings must be submitted to the Community Development Department for completeness and compliance with the State of Georgia construction codes, City zoning code, and zoning stipulations. Following City review, the applicant must submit plans to the fire marshal for approval prior to issuance of permit. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666. Permits and Licenses

2. When are they required?

Generally, you need to obtain a building permit from the City whenever you construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, remove, improve, convert, or demolish a building or other structure. A building could be anything from a house to a tool shed. Generally, permits are required for all building (structural - interior or exterior) and land disturbance activities - residential and commercial, as well as for towers, demolition, electrical work, low voltage wiring, plumbing, and, heating and air conditioning.

Note: All new construction, major redevelopment/renovation and expansion of existing structures must be approved for zoning and site development prior to permitting. Contact the Zoning Administrator at (770) 943-1666 x 356, if you have zoning related questions. Contact the City Permitting Department for information on your project and application forms at (770) 943-1666 x 362 or 363. Permits and Licenses

3. What do I need to do to obtain an alcoholic beverage license?

There are a series of steps that need to be completed prior to obtaining an alcoholic beverage license. The following are the steps to obtain this license, subject to approval by Mayor and City Council
-obtain copy of the application and the alcohol beverage ordinance (the fee is $10.00).
-pay the application processing fee of $500.00.
-have the City of Powder Springs Police Department conduct a background check (the fee is $24.00).
-provide Photo ID to the Community Development Department.
-provide certification from alcohol workshop regularly.
-attend Mayor and City Council agenda meeting & public hearing (Dates Scheduled By the City Clerk).
-Notice of Privilege License request is placed in Marietta Daily Journal by the Community Development Department staff
-submit aerial survey to show distance from churches, schools, residents.
-post window placard at the location prior to Mayor and City Council public hearing
-Submit to Community Development Department a copy of the Lease Agreement or Ownership of Property
-If approved, apply for the Tenant Certificate of Occupancy and Occupational Tax Permit.
Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666. Permits and Licenses

4. What do I need to do to obtain an occupational tax permit?

Requests must be submitted to the Community Development Department to verify if the proposed use is permitted in the current zoning district. Some business uses may require approval by the Mayor and City Council. An applicant must submit a site plan of the proposed building space that has been approved by the Cobb County Fire Marshal. The Community Development Department will review the plan and request for completeness and compliance with the State of Georgia construction codes Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666. Permits and Licenses

5. How can I obtain a sign permit?

Sign permits may be obtained from the Community Development Department. Design review is required for all signs. The applicant must submit the design of the sign and its location (wall, freestanding, etc) to the Community Development Department for review. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666. Permits and Licenses

6. Do we have Sunday sales?

The City of Powder Springs observes the State of Georgia regulations for Sunday Sales. Sunday alcohol sales are permitted for sit down service in those restaurants that have first obtained a Sunday Sales license. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666. Permits and Licenses

7. How do I arrange an inspection of my building?

Inspections are handled through the Building Inspector. Any persons having received approval of a building permit must contact the Building Inspector at the number located on the Permit Card to schedule an inspection. The following is required on all inspection requests:
-Name of the property owner.
-Location of the property (address). Applicant must indicate that the property is in the City of Powder Springs.
-Inspection request (plumbing, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, or building).
The Building Inspector will perform the inspection within 2 business days. Someone has to be on the property at the time of the inspection.
Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

8. Do I need a permit to install a pool?

Swimming pool permits are required. All applications must provide a site plan showing the location of the swimming pool and proper dimensions for the pool and the distance from all property lines, the existing home, and other structures. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

9. Do I need a permit to add drywall in my basement if already framed and wired?

Yes, a building permit is required for finishing basement. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

10. How long does it take to get a building permit?

Issuance of a building permit depends on the completeness of the application and complexity of the work. An application must contain all required information. Design Review must be complete (normally a two week process) and zoning must be verified. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

▼

City Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How do I qualify to run for elected office?

A person must meet the requirements of a qualified voter of the City of Powder Springs, as prescribed by State law, and must have been a resident of the City of Powder Springs for at least 12 months prior to the date in which he/she offers as a candidate, and, if elected, must continue to reside and be registered and qualified to vote in the municipality of Powder Springs throughout his/her term of office.

2. What years do the municipal elections take place?

Municipal elections are held every two years on odd numbered years. For example: the Mayor and two At-Large Posts are up for re-election during 2007. In 2009, Ward 1, Ward 2 and Ward 3 seats will be up for re-election. In 2011 the Mayor and two At-Large Posts will again be up for re-election.

3. When and where do I apply to be an eligible candidate for an elected office?

Qualifying dates for 2011 are August 30, 31 and September 1, 2011. All candidates must apply in person at the City of Powder Springs City Hall, 4484 Marietta Street during the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM (closed from 12:30 PM-1:30 PM for lunch) during those dates. Directions to City Hall

4. Is there a cost to qualify for elected office?

Yes, the cost is usually 3% of the annual salary of the elected office. The qualifying cost is published each year there is a municipal election, in the Marietta Daily Journal, prior to February 1 of that year. Election Schedule

▼

City Manager

Show All Answers

1. What are the characteristics of Council-Manager form of governmnet?

The Council-Manager form of government is a system of local government that combines the advantages of strong political leadership provided by the Mayor and Council with the stong managerial experience and skills through an appointed City Manager. All power is concentrated in the elected City Council who hire a professionally trained City Manager to oversee daily operations.

2. Is the Council-Manager form of government responsive to the needs of citizens?

In a Council-Manager form of government, the Mayor and Council members are the recognized community leaders and policy makers. They are elected to represent all segments of the community and address their needs and concerns. The City Manager is appointed to assure fair, equitable and efficient services are delivered in a responsive manner. If the Manager fails to be responsive to the wishes of the Council and community, the Council has the authority to remove the Manager at any time.

3. What is the Manager's function?

The City Manager is employed by the Council to bring his training and experience in managing local governments to the community. The Manager prepares a budget for the Council's consideration; recruits, hires and supervises the city's staff. He also serves as the Council's chief advisor and carries out Council policy.

The Manager is expected to provide clear, impartial information that allows the Council to fully assess all policy implications.

4. What is the Mayor's function?

The Mayor serves as the chief policy and political leader in city government. In council-manager governments, the Mayor presides at council meetings, serves and chief policy spokesperson for the city, facilitates committees and XXXXX between elected and appointed officials. The Mayor can also assist the Council on setting goals and advocating policy decisions.

5. What is the Council's function?

The Council functions as the legislative body for the City. The members are elected community leaders. Power in local government is concentrated in the elected Council. The Council approves ordinances and laws of the City, establishes the tax rate, adopts the City's annual budget, approves capital improvement strategies and establishes a vision and direction for the city.

▼

Code Enforcement

Show All Answers

1. How do I report Code Violations?

Report Code Violations within the City Limits to the Code Enforcement Division. Link to Report Code Violations

2. Do I need to register my vacant property?

Yes. On January 3, 2011 the City of Powder Springs' City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2010-54, an ordinance to provide for emergency nuisance abatement and to create Articles II and III to provide for registration of certain foreclosed and vacant properties within the City of Powder Springs. See "Vacant and Foreclosed Properties Registration" on the home page.

3. Do I need to register my foreclosed property?

Yes. On January 3, 2011 the City of Powder Springs' City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2010-54, an ordinance to provide for emergency nuisance abatement and to create Articles II and III to provide for registration of certain foreclosed and vacant properties within the City of Powder Springs. See "Vacant and Foreclosed Properties Registration" on the home page.

4. What are the rules relating to parking in my yard?

The Unified Development Code Section 6-6 states that parking on an untreated surface is prohibited unless Special Use Approval is granted by the City Council. Link to UDC Section 6-6

5. What should I do if I received a Code Enforcement Warning Notice?

Correct the violation by the date shown on the Warning Notice. If you are unable to correct the violation within the time given call the Code Enforcement Officer to discuss the violation. Only one Warning Notice for a particular violation will be issued within a 12-month period. Repeat occurrences of the same violation within the 12-month period will result in immediate issuance of a Citation.

6. What should I do if I receive a Code Enforcement Citation?

A Citation is a Summons to Appear before the Judge at City Municipal Court. You are required to appear at court on the date and time shown on your citation. However, in some cases, if you correct the violation prior to the court date, upon request, you may be allowed to pay your fine before court and not be required to appear. Call the Code Enforcement officer to discuss. When applicable, this option will only be offered on the first Citation for any given violation. Any citations issued for a repeat offense will not have the option of paying prior to court and will be required to appear before the Judge at court.

7. What happens at City Ordinance Court?

When the Judge calls your name he will ask how you plead. You can plead guilty, not guilty, or request to speak to the City Solicitor to discuss the case prior to being heard by the Judge.

8. Where do I pay my fine?

Payment is due immediately, at Court.

9. How much will my fine be?

The maxiumum fine allowed per Citation is $1,000. The Judge usually asks for the Code Enforcement Officer's recommedation, but it is ultimately up to the Judge what the fine amount will be.

10. What can I do about a dog that barks all night?

Sec. 10-53 of the code of ordinances states that dogs cannot make noise for more than ten (10) minutes without interruption or more than thirty (30) minutes if intermittent. For further assistance, please contact the Community Development Department’s Code Enforcement Division at 770-943-1666 or Cobb County Animal Control at 770-499-4136. Link to Cobb County Animal Control

▼

Property Tax

Show All Answers

1. Where do I pay my City property taxes?

You can mail to P. O. Box 46, Powder Springs, GA 30127 or pay in person at 4484 Marietta Street,Powder Springs, GA 30127.

2. Does the City of Powder Springs have a school tax?

No, school taxes are included on your Cobb County property tax bill.

3. When are property taxes due?

Powder Springs property taxes are due by November 20th of each year. The property tax bill is mailed annually by September 20th.

4. What if I don't receive a property tax bill?

Failure to receive a bill does not relieve property owners of the responsibility to make payment by the due date. Please contact the Finance Department, 770-943-1666 to obtain a copy of your bill.

▼

Purchasing

Show All Answers

1. In order to do business with the City, how do I register my business and employees in a federal work authorization program?

The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Bureau (USCIS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA) are jointly conducting the Employment Eligibility Verification Program (EEV), formerly known as the Basic Pilot Program. EEV involves verification checks of the SSA and DHS databases, using an automated system to verify the employment authorization of all newly hired employees. Users can access the web-based access methods using any Internet-capable Windows based personal computer and a web browser of Internet Explorer 5.5 or Netscape 4.7 or higher (with the exception of Netscape 7.0).

To participate, an employer must register online and accept the electronic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that sets forth the responsibilities of the SSA, USCIS and the employer.

If you need assistance in completing the registration process or need additional information relating to EEV, please call the Office of Verification toll free at 1-888-464-4218.

More...

2. How can I market my business to the City of Powder Springs?

Please read the Vendor Information webpage for all information regarding the registering and marketing procedures. More...

▼

Water and Sewer

Show All Answers

1. Why do I have low water pressure?

You could have low water pressure due to work being performed on the water system. You can contact the Public Works Department (770-943-8010) to determine if there is a problem with the system.

If the City is not working on the system, you should check the service line from the meter to your house for a possible leak. If no leak can be found, the pressure regulator inside the house could be clogged. In that case, you should call a plumber for service.

The Public Works Deparment can not perform work on private property.

2. Will the City repair my leak?

The City only repairs the distribution system up to each individual customer's meter (called "the street side of the water meter'). If there is a leak in your house or between the house and the meter (called "the customer's side of the meter"), the City can not repair. If the leak is is physically inside the meter box, the City crews will make repairs from the meter back to the street.

3. How can I tell if I have a leak?

All water meters installed since the mid 1980s have a leak detection device. To test for a leak, make sure that no water is running inside the house. Go out to the water meter location, remove the meter box lid and observe the small triangular device on the water meter face. If it is turning even slightly, there is a leak somewhere on your side of the meter.

4. What do I do if the water pipe that runs from the meter to my house breaks?

If you can not get the water turned off, call the Public Works Department (770-943-8010) for assistance. You will need to call a plumber to make repairs. If the water supply pipe is blue polybutylene tubing, you may be able to get financial assistance to have the line replaced. Call the following toll free number to see if you qualify--800-356-3496.

5. Is my water meter read every month?

Yes, water meters are read every month. Customers can call City Hall at 770-943-1666 to request the time and date your meter was read.

6. Where does our water come from?

Water provided by the City of Powder Springs originates from two sources. Residents in Powder Springs get water provided by the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority. This water comes from two water treatment plants; the Quarles Plant (Chattahoochee River) and the Wyckoff Plant (Lake Allatoona).

7. Why does my water taste or smell funny?

The three most common reasons for bad tasting or smelling water are:

1. Chlorine added to kill germs.
2. A rotten-egg odor can be cuased by small amounts of hydrogen sulfide dissolved in the water.
3. As algae and tiny fungi grown in the surface water sources, they give off non-toxic, smelly chemicals that can cause unpleasant tastes in drinking water. Different algae cause different tastes and odors.

8. Why is my water cloudy?

Cloudy water is caused by tiny air bubbles in the water similar to the gas bubbles in soft drinks. After a while, the bubbles rise to the top and are gone. This type of cloudiness occurs more often in the winter, when the drinking water is cold.

9. Why is my water reddish or brown in color?

The reddish or brown color, although nontoxic, can cause problems with the staining of clothes, and it looks bad. The most common causes of this discoloration are:

1. Iron, which sometimes occurs in nature, may be dissolved in your water. When iron is dissolved in the water, it turns the water reddish-brown. Iron removal devices are avalable and you may want to consider buying one if you have this problem.

2. Pipes leading to your home, or in your home, may be rusting, creating rusty-brown water. Also, your hot water tank may be rusting. Check with a plumber on how to drain and flush your hot water tank. If water discoloration persists, call the Public Works Department (770-943-8010) to flush the water mains in the street.

10. What do I do if my sewer backs up?

First call the Public Works Department (770-943-8010) to report the trouble. The City will dispatch someone to check the sewer mains in the street. If there are no problems with the main lines, the service man from the City will advise you to call a plumber.

11. Who do I call for emergency service?

After hours and on weekends and holidays, do the following for emergency repairs.

1. Call the City of Powder Springs Emergency Service line, 770-943-8000.

2. Select option #1 for Water Department, select option #1 again for emergencies.

3. Leave your name, address, phone number and a brief description of the emergency. The on-call maintenance worker will return your call.

▼

Zoning

Show All Answers

1. What do I need to do to have my property annexed and rezoned?

The Community Development Department will assist in preparation of the documents and submittal of any annexation request to Cobb County to be considered. All requests for annexation must be adjacent to the Powder Springs’ city limits and no request may create an unincorporated island to be considered. All requests to rezone properties within the city limits of Powder Springs require an application, corresponding fee, and notification to adjacent property owners. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

2. How do I know what I can do with my property?

The zoning district determines the use of the property. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

3. What if I want to add on to my house or build a shed?

Design review approval is required prior to any addition to a home and prior to placement of shed on the property. All applicants must provide a location plan, and drawings of the proposed addition or shed along with color samples and construction materials for review by the City. Once approved, a building permit is required prior to constructing an addition or placement of a shed on the property. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

4. Can I remove a tree from my property?

The Unified Development Code regulates the removal of trees. The approval to remove a tree is based on the original development plan for the project, and the size of the tree. Any tree over 30 inches in diameter may be considered specimen trees dependent upon the condition of the tree. You may be required to plant trees to replace the specimen tree. This requirement can be met by planting a certain number of smaller trees. Please contact the Public Works Department for further details at 770-943-8010.

5. Does the city charge impact fees and if so how much?

Impact fees are charged for all new construction. The fee is based on the gross square footage of building space for commercial or office structures, and a set fee for residential structures, as indicated in the Unified Development Code. The impact fees are set forth in Articles 13 and 14 of the Unified Development Code. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.

6. When are rezoning hearings?

A zoning action is heard by the Planning and Zoning Commission at its hearing on the last Monday of a month and by the council at its hearing on the first or third Monday of the following month. The shortest period of time from submittal of application to decision can be made is six weeks. Please contact the Community Development Department for further details at 770-943-1666.