FAQs

Zoning is a method of regulating how a property can be used and what development or buildings on the property will look like (form, scale, location, design). 

Zoning decisions shape long-term community growth and influence what the county will look like in the future.

DeKalb County’s zoning and sign ordinance apply to properties within unincorporated County boundaries.

The County’s 2050 Unified Plan and Future Development Map sets the community’s vision. The Zoning Ordinance is the tool that implements that vision, turning goals and policies into regulations for development.

The Zoning Ordinance update process is anticipated to take up to two years, with adoption expected by the end of 2027.

Zoning regulations impact everyone in the community in one way or another. Here are some examples of how:

• If you’re a property owner—It affects how you can use and develop your land.
• If you’re a homeowner—It affects what improvements you can make to your home or property.
• If you’re a business owner—It affects where you can locate or expand your shop, restaurant, or office.
• If you a community advocate and/or care about sustainability or transportation—It affects how walkable, green, and connected your community can be.
• If you walk, bike, roll, take transit, or drive—It affects your trips and access to roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, and parking

No. No rezonings are proposed as part of this Zoning Ordinance Update. Existing, lawfully granted approvals and entitlements remain in effect.

No. Zoning controls how a property may be used and developed, but it does not determine property taxes or the tax rate.