Information & Resources

Licenses, Permits, and Fees

Although many steps are involved in locating, securing, and establishing a business at a particular location in the city, we want your business, and will be happy to help navigate you through the process. We are glad that you are considering Franklin County, and we'll help you every step of the way.

If you need to obtain a zoning ordinance amendment, rezoning, or variance, you must submit an application at any City Hall. If you are planning to lease the property where you will open a new business, and a zoning change is necessary, the owner of the property will need to file an application. The Planning and Zoning Commission meets the first Monday of each month, at 4:30 P.M., at any City Hall. For more information, contact Planning and Zoning (706) 384-3028.

Food service businesses must obtain a Food Service Permit at the Franklin County Health Department, 6955 Hwy 145, Carnesville, GA 30521. The Health Department may be reached at 706 384-5575.

Businesses that plan to sell prepackaged foods or foods used elsewhere in food preparation must pass an inspection by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, in addition to obtaining a State Food Sales Establishment License.

Sales of beer and wine require an Alcoholic Beverages License from the city, as well as a State Alcoholic Beverage License. Applications for the local license may be obtained at any City Hall.

Signs

All signs must conform to city ordinances. Contact any City Hall for specific regulations.

Building Permits

All alterations, renovations, or other construction and building improvements will require a building permit from any of the cities.

All business owners in the city must obtain a business license, which must be approved by the city council. The City Council meets monthly on the first Monday of the month, at 5:30 pm.

All buildings must be inspected to insure that minimum safety standards are maintained by business establishments.  Contact City Hall to schedule an inspection.