Bill
Bill > SB447
GA SB447
GA SB447Control of Soil Erosion and Sedimentation; denial or nonacceptance of permits; revise provisions
summary
Introduced
02/02/2026
02/02/2026
In Committee
02/03/2026
02/03/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Chapter 7 of Title 12 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to control of soil erosion and sedimentation, so as to revise provisions regarding denial or nonacceptance of permits; to require local issuing authorities to provide rejected permit applicants with a written list of reasons for denial within specified time frames; to provide for automatic acceptance of applications and refunding of fees in certain circumstances; to amend Chapter 60 of Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to provisions applicable to counties and municipal corporations, so as to provide general provisions for counties and municipalities regarding the acceptance, denial, or nonacceptance of certain permits; to require unambiguous criteria for approval of permits; to require completed applications; to require local issuing authorities to provide rejected permit applicants with a written list of reasons for denial within specified time frames; to provide for automatic acceptance of applications and refunding of fees in certain circumstances; to provide for exceptions; to provide definitions; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill aims to improve the process for obtaining permits related to soil erosion and sedimentation control, as well as other development permits issued by counties and municipalities. It requires local authorities, when denying a permit application, to provide the applicant with a clear, written list of specific reasons for the denial, citing the relevant local, state, or federal laws that were not met. The bill also establishes stricter timeframes for reviewing permit applications, generally requiring a decision within 45 days of the initial submission, and a much shorter 14-day period for reviewing resubmitted applications that address previously identified deficiencies. If a local authority fails to act within these specified timeframes, the permit will be automatically considered approved, and any fees paid must be refunded. Additionally, the bill mandates that the criteria for permit approval must be clearly and unambiguously stated by the local issuing authority, and that applications must be complete before review begins, ensuring a more transparent and efficient permitting process for developers and citizens.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (14)
Jason Anavitarte (R)*,
Bill Cowsert (R)*,
Jason T. Dickerson (R)*,
Clint Dixon (R)*,
Drew Echols (R)*,
Frank Ginn (R)*,
Russ Goodman (R)*,
Chuck Payne (R)*,
Shawn Still (R)*,
Carden Summers (R)*,
Larry Walker (R)*,
Ben Watson (R)*,
Sam Watson (R)*,
Rick Williams (R)*,
Last Action
Senate Read and Referred (on 02/03/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72694 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/241045 |
Loading...