FAQs

• Can I keep chickens on my property?

  Only in an area zoned for agriculture. Chickens are not permitted in any other zoning district.
  
  

• Can the City cut the grass at a vacant or foreclosed property?

  The City does not maintain vacant property. A Code Enforcement Officer will contact the current property owner to bring their property into compliance
  
  

• Do I need a building permit to repair or replace my deck or finish my basement?

  Yes, it is very likely you will require a permit. Check with the Building Department at 678-297-6080 before beginning any construction project. Starting work before obtaining a permit may result in a Stop Work Order, lost time, and additional expense.
  
  

• Do I need a building permit to replace major appliances such as a water heater or air conditioner?

  A permit is required for the replacement of a major built-in appliance, such as a water heater or furnace/air conditioning unit. A permit is not required to replace a portable appliance, such as a refrigerator or clothes washer. If you are unsure, call the Building Department at 678-297-6080.
  
  

• How do I report a City Code Violation?

  A City Code Violation can be reported by completing an online Code Violation Complaint through SeeClickFix, or by calling 678-297-60​87 or 678-297-6089.
  
  
  Report An Issue (SeeClickFix)
  
  

• Is parking on the street legal?

  In a residential area, parking on the street is legal, unless there are signs which expressly prohibit parking in that area or in a residential cul-de-sac.
  
  

• My neighbor does not follow our HOA rules. Can the City force compliance?

  The City does not enforce HOA covenants and restrictions.
  
  

• My neighbor’s house is a mess. Can’t anybody help me?

  A mess is not necessarily a code violation. However, any code violations noted at the property will be handled by a Code Enforcement Officer. He will inspect the property and determine if there are issues that can be classified as violations.
  
  

• What are fence and wall requirements?

  Height of fences and walls used as fences shall not exceed 6 feet on residential property and 8 feet on non-residential property. All fencing shall be constructed with the finished side facing away from the property owner's property. Fences and walls used as fences shall be made of wood, metal, brick, block, vinyl or stone. Fences over 6 feet tall and retaining walls over 4 feet tall require a permit and inspections. The requirements above are general. Municipal Code Requirements Sec # 2.3.6
  
  

• What do I do if I receive a notice of violation from Code Enforcement?

  You should correct the violation before the date indicated on the notice. If you have any questions about what is required of you to achieve compliance, please contact the Code Enforcement Officer listed at the bottom of the notice you received. 
  
  You can also call our main number at 678-297-60​87 or 678-297-6089 and ask to speak to the Code Enforcement Officer for your area.
  
  

• What is considered an inoperative vehicle?

  Any vehicle that does not have a current license plate, has been dismantled, is not capable of being operated on a public street due to missing or inoperable mechanical or electronic parts or has been parked in the same spot on a city street for more than 10 consecutive days is considered an inoperable vehicle. Inoperable vehicles must be parked or stored in a completely enclosed building or garage or be removed from the premises.
  
  

• What is the height limit on high grass and weeds in my yard?

  Grass and weeds can not exceed 8" in height.
  
  

• Where can I store my boat or recreational vehicle on my property?

  Boats, boat trailers and recreational vehicles may be stored in an area not visible from the street. These areas include a garage, behind a privacy fence or behind the house.
  
  

• Who do I contact about dogs in my neighborhood?

  If a barking dog is causing a nuisance, call the Alpharetta Police Department at 678- 297-6300 to lodge a noise complaint. Problems with loose-running dogs are handled by Fulton County Animal Control, call 404-613-0358.