Weekly Breakdown of the Zoning Process
While each application is different during a cycle, the general process they go through is the same. Below you’ll see a breakdown of what to expect over the full, 8-week period. You can find more information about the zoning process on from this official DeKalb Zoning Process Summary [PDF].
Weeks 1-2
Pre-Application Conference
Before submitting an application, the developer must meet with the Planning Staff to discuss their intent and review the zoning proposal.
Pre-Submittal Community Meeting
The developer must notify residents and landowners within 1/2 mile of the subject property (by mail) and hold a public meeting to discuss the project. This is the first official public meeting to learn about the project. Read more about the Pre-Submittal Community Meeting >>
Filing the Application
After the Pre-Submittal Meeting and once the developer has met all the requirements of the application checklist, they may then submit their application.
Notice is Posted
An orange sign is placed on the property to advertise the upcoming Community Council Meeting.
Weeks 3-4
Community Council Meeting
The Community Council meets in each district and allows public input in a town-hall format. The Community council will make a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners. Learn more about the Community Council Meeting >>
Notice is Posted
A yellow or white sign is placed on the property to advertise the upcoming Planning Commission & Board of Commissioner Meetings. Also, public notice is posted in either the AJC or The Champion newspapers.
Weeks 5-6
Preliminary Planning Staff Analysis
Before the Planning Commission meeting, the county planning staff creates a preliminary report with their recommendation and comments.
Planning Commission Meeting
The Planning Commission Meeting is a formal public hearing that allows public input and makes a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners. Learn more about the Planning Commission Meeting >>
Weeks 7-8
Final Planning Staff Analysis
Before the Board of Commissioners meeting, the county planning staff creates an updated, detailed final report with their recommendation and comments.
Board of Commissioners Meeting
In the last week, during this formal public hearing with public input, county commissioner(s) will make a final vote on the application based on public input, staff reports and previous recommendations from the Community Council & Planning Commission. Learn more about the Board of Commissioners Meeting >>
Notice is Posted
A blue sign is placed on the property to advertise the upcoming Zoning Board of Appeals meeting. This only happens if the developer is requesting variances from the Board of Appeals. Learn more about the Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting >>