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Cemeteries

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1. How do I locate a burial in one of the City’s five municipal cemeteries?

The City of Savannah Department of Cemeteries maintains records for the City’s five municipal cemeteries. Information may be obtained from the main office located at Bonaventure Cemetery or from our satellite office located at Laurel Grove North Cemetery. Information is also available on a kiosk located on the porch of the Bonaventure Cemetery Administration Building. Additionally, burial records can be obtained by clicking on the “Burial Records” link on the Department of Cemeteries web page,

2. Are any of the cemeteries haunted?

The cemeteries were designed to inter and memorialize the dead and it is inappropriate to sensationalize these sacred sites. Please show respect for the dead and their survivors who frequently visit their grave sites. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the sites and the people interred there, the cemetery architecture, the scenery, and the natural ecosystems that inhabit the sites.

3. Does the Department of Cemeteries offer tours?

No. The Department of Cemeteries does not offer tours. However, the Bonaventure Historical Society, www.bonaventurehistorical.org, offers free tours on the second Sunday of each month. The Bonaventure Historical Society also offers a brochure containing points and people of interest in Bonaventure Cemetery. The brochure is available for a donation in the Bonaventure Cemetery Administration Office. Tours are also available through private tour companies.

4. Where is the "Bird Girl" statue located?

The 1938 bronze sculpture by Sylvia Shaw Judson, photographed by Jack Leigh in 1993, and featured on the cover of John Berendt's 1994 novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, has been on display at the Telfair Museum of Art at 121 Barnard Street in Savannah since 1997. It was removed from Bonaventure in 1995 shortly after the book became a best seller.

5. Where is Jim Williams buried?

Jim Williams who was featured in John Berendt's best seller, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, was NOT buried in Bonaventure Cemetery as the Hollywood production, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, implies. James Arthur Williams (1930 -1990) was buried in the Ramah Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery near Gordon, Georgia, his home town.

6. Are there any Confederate sections in the cemeteries?

Confederate soldiers and sailors are interred throughout Bonaventure, Laurel Grove, and other local cemeteries, including 17 generals who served in the war between the states. There are more than 600 Confederate dead interred in the Confederate section of Laurel Grove North Cemetery.

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Citizen Office

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1. How do I learn about Project DeRenne?

To learn more, contact the Project DeRenne Office at (912) 651-6488 or visit the website.

2. How do I get a street vendor license?

Street vendor licenses are issued on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. - noon. Check in with security at City Hall, located at 2 East Bay Street. Security will escort you to the Citizen Office. Please bring a photo ID and your craft materials or musical instrument, and please be prepared to demonstrate your talent.

3. How do I get a sidewalk café license?

To obtain a sidewalk café licenses, please review the City Temporary Use of Right of Way Policy. It is also required that you complete the sidewalk café application. As listed on the application, please include a business tax certificate, sidewalk café site plan, proof of insurance (with mayor and alderman additionally listed), photo of outdoor future, and the application fee.

4. How do I request City services?

Requests for maintenance or services on city owned property/equipment call 3-1-1 or complete the online customer service e-Request form.

5. How do I find my work order?

To track the status of a work order call 3-1-1.

6. Will Project DeRenne widen the road?

No. Project Derenne will improve the intersections and medians along Derenne Avenue.

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Clerk of Council

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1. How do I file a petition or claim with the City?

Petitions or claims against the City can be obtained from the Office of the Clerk of Council. Citizens can file a damage claim petition for personal as well as property damages. Petitions can be requested for street paving, the purchase of City property, refunds, waivers, cemetery transfers, rezoning of property, etc, which covers any official request of City Council.

Zoning Petitions filing fee of $170.00. All other petitions at no cost.

2. How do I transfer a cemetery deed?

All cemetery deeds are recorded in the Clerk of Council's office. Transfer of such deeds must be petitioned through the Clerk of Council's office.

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Community Planning & Development

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1. What types of activities does the department fund?

Activities funded must be eligible under guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. These activities generally include housing, economic development, homeless, and other public services.

2. When can an organization apply for funding?

The application period occurs annually and is generally initiated in May of each year. Please contact the department at 912-651-6520 to have your agency added to the mailing list if you would like to receive notification of fund opportunities.

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Criminal History Records

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1. How can I obtain a copy of my Georgia criminal history record?

Georgia criminal history records can be obtained by submitting a signed, notarized consent that has been provided by the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department. You may contact our Criminal Records Division at:
P.O. Box 8032
Savannah, Georgia 31401

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Development Services

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1. Why do I need a building permit?

The building permit review process and subsequent inspections protect you, your family, friends, and future owners against the potential hazards of unsafe construction. It also protects your investment, as many insurers do not pay claims on construction performed without the benefit of a building permit, the required inspections, and certificate of occupancy. Additionally, many lenders will not recognize non-permitted square footage or upgrades, thereby reducing the appraised value of your home.

2. What are the differences between a certificate of completion (C of C) and a certificate of occupancy (CO)?

A certificate of occupancy is issued when a structure is originally built or there is a change of use. Certificates of completion are issued for all renovations, including attached additions.

3. How do I know if my inspection has passed?

If your inspection passes, your inspector will sign your inspection card. If it does not pass, they will leave you a correction notice that will indicate the necessary changes. You can also obtain inspection results by accessing our online Vertical Inspections and Permitting System (VIPS) by going into the City of Savannah Website at www.savannahga.gov and following the instructions on the handout entitled “Tracking Building Permits Online”. You may also obtain your inspection results by calling our office at (912) 651-6530 and press the appropriate option for building inspections or trade inspections.

4. What if my construction encroaches onto city right-of-way?

If your construction, such as driveways and scaffolding, encroaches on city right of way, you must obtain a ‘Permit to Work on Right-of-Way.’ You are responsible for any damage caused to the right-of-way, which includes streets, lanes, curbing, sidewalks, trees, greenspaces and medians. Applications for permits are available on the city web site at www.savannahga.gov. You may also phone the Traffic Engineering Department at (912) 651-6600 weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM to have an application faxed or mailed to you. If convenient, you may visit Traffic Engineering at 100 West Gwinnett Street, near the intersection with Stiles Avenue.

5. Who do I contact if my construction or demolition involves site development or land disturbance?

Commercial construction and demolition typically requires a Site Plan. Contact the City Development Services Department at (912) 651-6510 for more information. However, single-family and two-family construction typically is exempt from the site permitting requirements. However, all of the requirements for controlling erosion and sediment are the same. A handout is available titled “Erosion Control for Home Builders”.

6. What do I do when my project is finished?

When your inspections have been satisfactorily completed, you or your building official may then notify the permitting center, and a permit specialist will review your application to be sure that all building and site requirements have been satisfied. If there are additional requirements, the specialist will notify you by calling the phone number on your permit application. Once all requirements have been satisfied, you will be issued either a Certificate of Completion or a Certificate of Occupancy, and you will be notified via phone call when the document is ready.

7. What is the difference between a Certificate of Completion (C of C) and a Certificate of Occupancy (CO)?

An occupancy certificate is issued when a structure is originally built or change of use. Certificates of Completion are issued for all renovations, including attached additions.

8. How many inspections, and of what type, are required?

It depends on the project. Some projects may only require a final inspection, while a more complex project may require hundreds of instructions. The sign-off card may be used as general guide, but we also recommend that you be present for each of your inspections so that you can communicate with each of your inspectors to discuss your job and to find out what type of inspections will be required.

9. How much does a building permit cost?

The all-inclusive fee for building inspections for additions, renovations and new construction will be determined by the cost of construction.

The cost of construction shall be calculated by multiplying the floor area in square feet by the construction cost multiplier below unless a detailed construction cost estimate or an actual contract amount is provided for review and approved by the Director of Development Services.

Construction costs for renovations may be approved on a staff level.
Residential Construction: square feet (floor area) x $80.00 / square foot
Commercial Construction: square feet (floor area) x $100 / square foot

The permit fee is calculated as follows:
$8.00 per $1,000 of Cost of Construction up to $5,000,000, plus
$4.00 per $1,000 of Cost of Construction between $5,000,000 and $10,000,000, plus
$2.00 per $1,000 of Cost of Construction in excess of $10,000,000.

For buildings constructed by eleemosynary institutions valued in excess of $15,000,000, the total fee shall be based on $2.00 per $1,000 of building value.

The minimum All-inclusive fee shall be $30.00.

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Example:

Residential Addition
Total Construction Costs = $10,000
$10,000 x $80/$1,000 = $80 Building Permit Fee

10. What is a plan review fee?

The plan review fee is a non-refundable charge for reviewing plans that are submitted with a building permit application. The fee is based on the estimated total costs for the construction. The review fee is deducted from the overall cost of the permit at the time of issuance, however if you decide not to proceed with your project the plan review fee will not be refunded. The fee schedule is as follows:

Cost of Construction Plan Review Fee
$0 - $5,000 $25.00
$5,000 - $25,000 $50.00
$25,001 - $50,000 $100.00
$50,001 - $100,000 $150.00
$100,001 - $500,000 $200.00
$500,001 - $1,000,000 $300.00
$1,000,001 - $5,000,000 $500.00
$5,000,001 - $10,000,000 $1,000.00
Over $10,000,000 $2,000.00

11. How long does it take to get a building permit once I submit my plans and application?

There is no single answer to this question. Various plans go through the process following different tracks. As a rule, we expect that residential permits (new construction and additions/remodels) are typically approved in two weeks. Commercial and multi-family (three or more units) may take more than 30 days. The potential factors that can create delays are numerous. The most common one is failure to submit the required plans for a Site Permit (See section on site permits). Obtaining a site permit may take anywhere from 30 days to 6 months or longer. This depends heavily on the unique issues on your site, the quality of the submitted plans and the responsiveness of your consultant to requests for additional information or revisions.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

12. What is the plan review process for a building permit?

After a complete submittal of the required documents is received, plans are circulated to the various plan reviewers. When a reviewer is satisfied the plans meet the required code the plans are forwarded to the next reviewer. Depending upon the nature of your specific project, the specific plan reviewers may change. If the design professionals have addressed all of the requirements, the plans will progress smoothly through the system. If any one or more of the plan reviewers discover that additional information is needed or revisions to the plans are necessary to meet the current requirements, the plans will be placed on hold until all of the concerns are addressed. Once all of the required plan reviewers have approved the plans, a permit specialist will prepare the building permit and notify the contact that the permit is ready to be picked up and the amount of the remaining permit fee.

13. How do I apply for a Building Permit?

Applications shall be submitted to the City of Savannah, Permit Services, 5515 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31405. The application shall be completed in full and shall be accompanied by the required Plan Review fee and two copies of the construction plans, if needed, stamped "released for construction".

14. When can I pick up my permit?

Once your application has completed the review process, a Permit Specialist will call you, or your contractor, to let you know it is ready for pick-up. You will also be notified of any outstanding permit fees at that time. Permits may be picked up between 8:15 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday at 5515 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31406. Please remember that fees must be paid with a check or money order only, made payable to the City of Savannah.

15. What is the status of my building permit application?

Once you have the Master Permit Number, you may obtain project information on-line. Your project may be found by logging into the City’s website at www.savannahga.gov, using the headline labeled “Business”, clicking on “Vertical Inspections and Permitting System” under the “Development Resources” heading, and typing in the Master Permit Number, including the dash, and clicking “Search Projects.” Please call (912) 651-6530 to speak to a Permit Specialist if you still have any questions

16. How do I obtain my Master Permit Number?

If your consultant or contractor cannot provide it to you, you may call Permit Services at (912) 651-6530 for assistance. Please understand that due to privacy issues, the information will not be disclosed to you unless we can verify your identity and that your name is listed on the permit application.

17. What time will my inspection take place?

To find out the time your inspection will take place, please contact your inspector on the morning of the inspection between the hours of 7:15 AM and 8:30 AM at (912) 651-6530, then pressing option two. Your inspector will provide you with a 2 hour window at that time.

18. How are re-inspection fees determined?

Re-inspection fees are assigned at the discretion of the inspector. One big reason for imposing a re-inspection fee is if the work is not ready when the inspector arrives.

19. What Building Codes are being enforced?

As of October 1, 2009, the following codes1 are being used for plan review and inspections:
2006 International Building Code
2006 International Fuel Gas Code
2006 International Mechanical Code
2006 International Plumbing Code
2006 International Fire Code3
2006 International Energy Conservation Code
2006 International Residential Code2
2008 National Electrical Code
2004 NFPA 96 Fire Code
2000 NFPA 101 Life Safety Code3
1997 Georgia Accessibility Standards
1994 Standard Swimming Pool Code
Including all amendments to these codes as adopted by the State of Georgia.
The plumbing requirements of the International Plumbing Code and the electrical requirements of the National Electric Code must be used for one and two family dwelling construction.
Including all fire codes adopted by the State of Georgia as per OCGA 120-3-3.

20. What fees do I need to pay for a building permit?

For projects which include the submittal of construction plans a plan review fee is required at the time of the submittal of the application and plans. The fee is based upon the estimated total costs for the construction.

A permit fee is also charged for all permits. If a project only includes a single trade, you may pay a fee for a trade permit. If two or more trades are involved, an all-inclusive permit may be requested. The cost for either is based on the cost of construction. The Revenue Ordinance establishes a fee of $100 per square foot for commercial construction and $80 per square foot for residential construction, unless you wish to document and provide evidence that your actual costs are lower. Some exceptions do exist. Please call the Permit Services office at 912-651-6530 for more specific information.

21. How long is my building permit valid?

Your permit is valid for six months from the date of its last activity. In other words, if a period of more than six months lapses after your last inspection (or from the date of issuance if you have not yet received any inspections) then your job is considered suspended or abandoned, and your permit will be revoked due to inactivity. Tracking of the six months is through our VIPS system

22. Can I receive an extension on my permit?

In some cases, you may be able to receive a 90 day extension on a permit that has been revoked or gone over six months without any activity; however this is not common, and is done only on a limited case by case basis. Extension requests must be submitted in writing. In order to receive an extension, you must make an appointment with the Principal Building Inspector to review the scope of your work and the permit activity. The Principal Building Inspector will consider, among other things, the amount of lapsed time, availability of plans, and any code changes that may have occurred during the time period. He or she may even find it necessary to send a group of trade specialists to your jobsite in order to obtain more information.

23. What is the difference between a building inspection and a trade inspection?

Your plumber, electrician, and HVAC contractor are all considered ‘Tradesmen,’ and will therefore all receive ‘trade’ inspections. The rest of the inspections are considered ‘building’ inspections, and they would include things like framing, insulation and drywall.

24. Will I have the same inspectors throughout my permit process?

The Development Services Department employs a group of highly skilled and credentialed professional inspectors for the building group and for each of the trade categories. Depending upon the scope of the work, you could have up to four separate inspectors. You will, however, likely have the same inspector within a category throughout the course of your project.

25. How do I call for building inspections?

If you are a General Contractor, or are acting as your own contractor, you may call in your own building inspections, but you can’t call in inspections for your tradesmen. To schedule a building inspection by phone, dial (912) 651-6530. You must call in before 4:00 PM in order to receive an inspection on the next business day. We do not do same day building inspections. Inspections called in after 4:00 PM will be scheduled for the day after next. When you call in, please have your permit number and job address to ensure that your inspection is scheduled against the correct permit. If you wish to schedule by fax, send to (912) 651-6543. If you wish to schedule by email, send your request to bprice@savannahga.gov

26. As the homeowner or General Contractor can I call in trade inspections?

No. The trade subcontractor must call in his or her own inspections. Trade inspection requests may be called in between 7:15 AM and 4:00 PM. Inspection requests received before 8:30 AM may be scheduled for the same day. All inspection requests received after 8:30 AM will be scheduled for the next business day.

27. What is the price of an electrical application?

Permit fees are based on the total cost of the construction and are calculated at the rate of $8 per thousand dollars worth of construction with a $30 minimum. For example, if your total construction costs are estimated at $10,000.00 then your permit fee would be $80.00. (($10,000.00 ) = $80.00 Please note that if the electrical permit is part of an all-inclusive building permit, then the fees are paid at the time that the building permit is issued.

28. When will my power be released to Georgia Power?

Once you have completed an electrical final, your inspector will notify the Electrical Principal who is responsible for sending the necessary paperwork to Georgia Power via fax. This is usually done within one business day after you pass your final inspection.

29. How long does it take to process my electrical permit application?

If your permit is part of an all-inclusive building permit, then it should be issued within 24 hours from the time you submit the ‘Electrical Permit Application’ that came with the building permit. If you would like to discuss the review process on a stand-alone electrical permit, please contact the Principal Electrical Inspector by dialing 912-651-6530, then pressing option two.

30. How are re-inspection fees determined?

Re-inspection fees are at the discretion of the inspector.

31. When is a mechanical permit required?

When you install, alter, remove, convert or replace a mechanical system.

32. How do I apply for a permit?

Permits can be obtained at our office at 5515 Abercorn Street during business hours (7:30-5:00 M-F). Permit applications can also be downloaded from the City of Savannah website at www.savannahga.gov. Mechanical permits can only be issued to Georgia licensed mechanical contractors or to a bono fide homeowners that perform their own work. Homeowners must fill out a notarized affidavit which states they will perform the work and will live in the house.

33. What is the price for a mechanical permit?

Permit fees are based on the cost the construction and are calculated at the rate of 8$ per thousand dollars of construction with a minimum fee of $30.

34. What is required before a permit is issued?

New construction or change outs where the equipment and ductwork are replaced are required to have a total house heat load calculation, signed permit, signed affidavit and the permitting fee

35. Can I pay cash for my permit?

No, we only accept checks and money orders at this time.

36. What documentation is required for a mechanical contractor?

We need a copy of your State of Georgia mechanical contractor’s license and a business license from a jurisdiction in Georgia.

37. What Mechanical Code do you enforce?

We use the 2006 International Mechanical Code, 2006 International Gas Code, 2006 International Energy Conservation Code, 2004 NFPA 96 and the amendments adopted by the State of Georgia.

38. Can I schedule a time for my inspection?

Yes, our inspectors have morning office hours from 7:15 to 9:00 M-F. You can speak to the inspector that will perform your inspection by calling (912)651-6530 during this time.

39. What is the price of an plumbing application?

Answer icon
Permit fees are based on the total cost of the plumbing being installed and are calculated at the rate of $8 per thousand dollars or fraction thereof worth of plumbing with a $30 minimum for plumbing work $3000 or less. For example, if your total construction costs are estimated at $10,000.00 then your permit fee would be $80.00. (($10,000.00 ) = $80.00 Please note that if the plumbing permit is part of an all-inclusive building permit, then the fees are paid at the time that the building permit is issued

40. What plumbing code does the City of Savannah enforce?

The 2006 Edition of the ICC International Plumbing Code with Georgia amendments.

41. Can I fax in an application?

If your trade application is part of an all-inclusive building permit, you may fax in your application. It must be complete and faxed in from your business location so that we can verify that it’s coming from a license holder.

42. When will my gas service be released to Atlanta Gas Light?

Once you have completed the plumbing final, your inspector will notify the Plumbing Principal who will email the release to Atlanta Gas Light.. This is usually done within one business day after you pass your final inspection.

43. What time will my inspection take place?

To find out what time your inspection will take place, please contact your inspector on the morning of the inspection between the hours of 7:15AM and 8:30AM by calling 912-651-6530, then pressing option two for trade inspections. Your inspector will provide you with a 3 hour time window at that time.

44. When will my inspection results be posted?

The inspectors post inspection results in the morning for the previous day’s inspections. They are available on-line or by calling the inspections office at 912-651-6530, then pressing option two for trade inspections.

45. Does the inspector have to sign the inspection card?

Your inspector will sign your card if it is posted next to building permit, as required. In addition to signing the inspection card the inspection result will also be posted in the on-line computer systems on the morning following the inspection.

46. How late can I call in for an plumbing inspection?

You can request plumbing inspections until 8:30 am on the day of the inspection. Inspections called in after 8:30am will be scheduled for the next business day.

47. What is the process for getting a site plan approved?

Initially, the consultant/engineer will submit 8 sets of plans to be reviewed by all City departments and the Metropolitan Planning Commission. Departments are allowed ten business days to review plans. This review process continues until all of the departments have accepted the plans. Once all departments have accepted the site plans, 3 sets of plans are required for the City Engineer's approval and final permitting.

Refer to Development Services on the Web for more Business Policies and Procedures.

48. How long does it take to get a site permit once I submit my plans and application?

arious plans go through the process following different tracks. The factors that can create lengthy delays are numerous. Obtaining a site permit typically takes between 30 and 60 days following receipt of a complete application submittal. This depends heavily on the unique issues on your site, the quality of the submitted plans and the responsiveness of your consultant to requests for additional information or revisions.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

49. What other permits or approvals do I need for my site improvements?

While all projects are different the two most common overlooked permits or approvals you may need are the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) approval and a Right-of-Way permit. The local NRCS office is located in Richmond Hill, Georgia (912-459-2350) and application is made directly to them by your consulting engineer. Their approval of the Erosion and Sediment Control plan is required for all projects disturbing 1.0 acres or more. A Right-of-Way permit is required for all work within a public Right-of-Way. The permit may be issued by the City, County, State or Federal government, depending who is responsible for the right-of-way. Application is made directly to the controlling authority. The City Traffic Engineering number is 912-651-6600.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

50. What fees do I need to pay for a site permit?

The city collects two development fees for a Site Permit: 1) The Site Review Fee, and 2) the Erosion Control Fee. Checks are payable to the City of Savannah. The Site Review fee is $100.00 per acre ($25.00 minimum), based on the project acreage. It is payable at the beginning of the review process. The local portion of the Erosion Control fee is $40.00 per disturbed acre and is payable after the City Engineer’s approval of the plans and before the preconstruction meeting can be scheduled. Additional fees may be charged by certain departments (water and sewer, traffic engineering, park and tree, etc...) during the development process.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

51. How do I get my project number?

Contact your consultant. If they can not provide it, you may call the Permit Services office at 912-651-6510.

52. What is the status of my site project application?

Once you have the project number, you may obtain project information on-line. Your project may be found by logging into the City’s website at www.savannahga.gov, using the headline labeled “Business”, clicking on “Site Plan Review Project Status” under the “Development Resources” heading, and typing in the project number, including the dashes, and clicking “

Please visit Development Services on the Web.

53. How/when do I get a land disturbance permit?

Land disturbance permits are issued by the site inspector at the Preconstruction meeting. “Precons” are scheduled by the consultant/engineer after plans have been approved by the City Engineer.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

54. How do I get a Certificate of Occupancy?

It is important to remember that both the building and site improvements require final inspections. Following the final inspection for the site (if required), your consultant will submit a Certification Letter to the City. We can then prepare two documents for your signature which must be returned. Upon acceptance of these and other required documents (which will be described at the site Final Inspection), a recommendation for the CO will be forwarded. If there were no site issues, following the satisfactory completion of all final inspections for the structure, a CO will be prepared and signed. If there are site issues, we will ensure the site improvements have been properly accepted. When both the building and site are satisfied with the substantial completion of the improvements, a CO may be issued.

Please visit Development Services web site for more information.

55. What kind of bonds does the City require?

The four basic types of bonds are:

1. Completion Bond – Needed to ensure completion of any punchlist items remaining from the site work final inspection as well as acceptance of as-built drawings. This bond has a 12 month, automatically renewing term.
2. Utility Warranty Bond – Needed to provide a 1 year warranty for all new publicly maintained infrastructure, as well as work within the public right-of-way. This bond has a 14 month, automatically renewing term.
3. Landscape Warranty Bond – Needed to ensure required landscaping and trees are maintained during the 2 year warranty period. This bond has a 26 month, automatically renewing term.
4. Construction Bond – Needed prior to the recording of a subdivision plat when the new subdivision requires additional infrastructure to serve new lots.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

56. What form can I use for bonds?

Bonds are usually presented in these ways:

1. Cash/check
2. Surety Bond
3. Letter of Credit

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

57. How/when do I get my bonds back?

Each type of bond requires completion of specific requirement prior to return.

1. Completion Bond – Will be returned upon acceptance of as-built documents and completion of any punchlist items.
2. Utility Warranty Bond – Will be returned upon successful completion of the 1 year Utility Warranty Inspection.
3. Landscape Warranty Bond – Will be returned upon successful completion of 2 year Landscape Warranty Inspection
4. Construction Bond – The bond is reduced to 50% of the total value of the infrastructure, upon provisional acceptance. The remaining 50% is released upon final acceptance of infrastructure.

Visit the Development Services Web site for more information.

58. What causes flooding in Savannah?

Stormwater run-off in Savannah is hampered by the flat terrain, low elevations and tidal influence from the Atlantic Ocean. These are major natural factors, common to coastal regions, which cause the City to be at risk for flooding during long periods of moderate rainfall followed or during high volume, short duration rainfall events. As a result of these factors structural flooding has occurred in the City. Flooding has occurred during major storms and hurricanes dating as far back as 1871 and as recent as July 2007.

59. What is Flood Insurance?

As a coastal community, Savannah is subject to hurricanes and heavy rains. Savannah participates in the NFIP. In doing so, local insurance agents can sell a Flood Insurance policy, which is separate from regular property insurance, at subsidized rates set by the Federal Government. The Federal Government passed a law making it mandatory for owners to obtain a Flood Insurance policy if the structure is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and the loan is federally backed. A claim can be filed if a structure is damaged due to rising waters. Flood insurance can cover the structure alone or cover a combination of the structure and contents.

60. Does my policy go into effect once a payment is made?

Typically there is a 30 days waiting period for the policy to be activated, unless it is for a newly purchased dwelling or refinance. The reason for this is to encourage people to purchase Flood Insurance ahead of time instead when a storm event is just about to hit. Flood insurance is based on putting all of the nation’s paid premiums in a pot and draw from that reserve as the disasters occur throughout the nation. So, your premium may pay for a storm event in Illinois this year, but when Savannah had its events in 1994, Illinois and other states paid for our events.

61. What types of property may be insured against flood loss?

Almost every type of walled and roofed building that is principally above ground and not entirely over water may be insured if it is in a participating community. In most cases, this includes manufactured (i.e., mobile) homes that are anchored to permanent foundations and travel trailers without wheels that are anchored to permanent foundations and are regulated under the community's floodplain management and building ordinances or laws. (However, this does not include converted buses or vans.) Contents of insurable walled and roofed buildings also may be insured under separate coverage.

62. What kinds of property are not insurable under the NFIP?

Buildings entirely over water or principally below ground, gas and liquid storage tanks, animals, birds, fish, aircraft, wharves, piers, bulkheads, growing crops, shrubbery, land, livestock, roads, machinery or equipment in the open, and most motor vehicles are not insurable. Most contents and finishing materials located in a basement or in enclosures below the lowest elevated floor of an elevated building constructed after the FIRM became effective are not covered.

63. Can I get flood insurance if I'm renting a property?

Yes. If you live in a community that participates in the NFIP, you can get flood insurance to cover the contents of your home or business, even if the landlord does not carry building coverage.

64. Can I get flood insurance if I do not live in a High Risk Area?

Yes. Flood Insurance is also available for structures outside the 100 year floodplain: Zone X. Also see #19 Preferred Risk Policies and visit the NFIP website at FloodSmart.gov for additional information.

65. If I live in a flood zone but my finish floor is above the BFE, do I still need flood insurance?

Yes, the property and dwelling’s foundation are still in a “High Risk” flood area and still can be flooded by a larger storm event like a hurricane. The insurer will receive lower insurance premiums because the finish floor is higher than what is projected to flood. If the contour of the property is higher than the BFE a LOMA can be submitted to remove the property.

66. What is the purpose of an Elevation Certificate?

The Elevation Certificate is an important administrative tool of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). It is to be used to provide elevation information necessary to ensure compliance with community floodplain management ordinances, to determine the proper insurance premium rate, and to support a request for a Letter of Map Amendment. (LOMA) or Letter of Map Revision based on fill (LOMR-F). These certificates are primarily completed by a Georgia Licensed Surveyor.

67. Is flood damage from wind-driven rain covered?

No. When rain enters through a wind-damaged window or door, or comes through a hole in a wall or roof, the NFIP considers the resulting puddles and damage to be windstorm-related, not flood-related. Flood insurance covers overflow of inland or tidal waters and unusual and rapid accumulation or run-off of surface waters from any source. However, the flood must be a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties (at least one of which is yours). Although flood insurance specifically excludes wind and hail damage, the good news is that most homeowners insurance provides such coverage.

68. What is the Preferred Risk Policy (PRP)?

The Preferred Risk Policy offers multiple coverage combinations for both buildings and contents (or contents-only, for renters) that are located in moderate-to-low risk areas (B, C, and X Zones). Preferred Risk Policies are available for residential or non-residential buildings located in these zones, and that meet eligibility requirements based on the building’s entire flood loss history.

69. Can “north-eastern” winds affect flooding?

Yes. Winds blowing in from the north-east can affect the tidal flow by preventing the tide from going out and increase the tide level by pushing in large amount of sea water. The increased tide heights cause local flooding of streets as seen along Highway 80 going out to Tybee Island and East President Street. Another affect is the tidal influence canals and streams cannot drain, and in return local storm water conveyance systems cannot spill into the canals causing structural flooding.

70. Do marshes and other vegetation prevent flooding?

Yes. The lack of marshes and other natural vegetation may cause increased flooding to structures that depend on the natural functions of the floodplain. The marsh and vegetation acts as a shield from storms coming across the area by reducing the energy of the storm and holding the rainwater.

71. How do I know if I am at risk of flooding?

The fastest and easiest way is by referring to the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Flood Insurance Rating Map (FIRM) published by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The FIRM maps were published in September 1970 and have been revised several times since then; the latest version is dated September 26, 2008.

72. What is the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) used for?

The FIRM maps were devised as a means to warn potential property owners and mortgage companies of areas for probable flooding. Also, Insurance Companies base their policy rates on the map’s flood zones. City officials use FIRM maps to enforce building code regulations. Depending upon the zone the structure is in determines the stringency of the needed requirements.

73. What is the City of Savannah’s Community Number?

For means of accurate identification, FEMA has devised a map identification system for county and communities jurisdiction in the Nation Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The overall Chatham County identifying number is 13051C, but the City of Savannah’s community number is 135163 where as the Unincorporated area is 130030.

74. What are FIRM Panels and how many are there?

FIRM stands for "Flood Insurance Rate Map". Savannah’s community maps are divided into over 50 different FIRM panels; however, there are over 90 panels for the entire Chatham County area. Each panel is assigned a number, such as 0235 F or 0036 F. Most of downtown Savannah is split between 0153F and 0154F. When you call for a zone determination you will get a response like, “1 Bull Street is in an X zone, from FIRM map 135163, Panel 0154F, revised date September 26, 2008.” Or, “1 Sally Mood Drive is in an AE 12 zone from FIRM map 135163, Panel 0164 F revised date September 26, 2008.”

75. What is the difference between the “Floodplain” and the “Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)”?

The Floodplain is any land area susceptible to inundation by floodwaters from any source.
The Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is the land area covered by the floodwaters of the base flood on the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM). The SFHA is the area where the NFIP's floodplain management regulations must be enforced and the area where the mandatory purchase of flood insurance applies. The SFHA includes Zones A, AO, AH, A1-30, AE, A99, AR, AR/A1-30, AR/AE, AR/AO, AR/AH, AR/A, VO, V1-30, VE, and V.

76. What is the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)?

The NFIP, created by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, is a Federal program based on an agreement between local communities and the Federal Government that states if a community will adopt and enforce a floodplain management ordinance to reduce flood risks in Special Flood Hazard Areas, the Federal Government will make flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses. This insurance is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods.

77. What is Increase Cost of Compliance (ICC)?

ICC is now available that pays up to $30,000 to assist in bringing a non-compliant structure up to the City of Savannah Flood Damage Protection Ordinance. The structure must be within the designated “High Risk” flood zone and be substantially damaged or repetitively flooded.

78. What is the Community Rating System (CRS)?

The City has subscribed to a program to reduce citizen’s flood insurance policy cost and further protect structures and personnel. The CRS program is a series of activities the City carries out each year to promote flood protection and preventative measures to avoid flooding. By doing so citizens who have flood insurance receive a discount on their policy cost.

79. What is a 100 year or 500 year storm event?

The flood zones shown on the FIRM maps are based on the 100 and 500 year storms. These storms are rated according to how much rain falls within a certain time period. For example, on average once in one hundred years, a one percent chance, ten inches of rain will fall within a twenty-four hour time period in Savannah, so this type of storm would be considered a 100 year storm. A much higher rate of rainfall within a twenty-four time period would classify the storm as a 500 year storm. For example, a Category IV hurricane would be expected to drop twenty inches of rain in less than twenty-four hours. That would definitely qualify as a 500 year storm.

80. What is the difference between Base Flood Elevation (BFE) and Design Base Flood Elevation (DBFE)?

Base Flood Elevation is an elevation that a structure must be built at or above to be in compliant with the NFIP requirements. The height has been determined by hydrological methods. For example, “AE-15" means that the lowest finished floor elevation of the structure must be at or above 15 NAVD 1988 because that is where the predicted flood water will rise. When a “Freeboard” is added to the BFE, the new minimum floor elevation is known as the Design Base Flood Elevation (DBFE). The new standard will satisfy the City of Savannah Flood Damage Protection Ordinance.

81. What is a Freeboard?

Freeboard is a factor of safety expressed in feet above the BFE. "Freeboard" tends to compensate for the many unknown factors that could contribute to flood heights greater than the height calculated. Freeboard is not required by NFIP standards, but is part of the CRS program under Higher Regulations. Savannah adopted a one-foot freeboard to reduce the risk of flooding. Freeboard results in significantly lower flood insurance rates due to lower flood risk.

82. What are the different Flood Zones and Risks?

In Savannah there are six zones: A, AE, AH, VE, X, and X_500.
Most of the City is in the X and X_500. The X zone, “Low Risk”, is considered above the 100 and 500 year floodplains. The lightly shaded X or X_500, “Moderate Risk”, is above or protected from the 100 year floodplain, but may have up to a foot of water in a 500 year storm event.

The A, AH and AE Zones are the flood zones which are common in Savannah. These areas are in the “High Risk” area and are prone to flood with rising water in both the 100 year and the 500 year storms. Structures have a 1% annual chance of flooding and a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a 30-year mortgage. An unnumbered “A” zone means that no Base Flood Elevation (BFE) above Sea Level has yet been determined. “AE” means a base flood elevation has been determined. For example, “AE-15" means that the lowest finished floor elevation of the structure must be at or above 15 NAVD 1988 because that is where the predicted flood water will rise. Zone AH indicated shallow flooding, usually in the form of a pond, with an average depth ranging from 1 to 3 feet. All new construction must be constructed above the designed base flood elevation (DBFE). Also, in this zone the “50% rule” applies.

The VE Zones are the most dangerous flood zones. VE zones are in the “High Risk” area and will experience rising waters, severe winds and wave action greater than three feet. Homes in this area are on the south side of Savannah along the Forest and Vernon Rivers. To protect against wave scouring and frontal velocity, structures must be elevated so that the lowest horizontal structural member (floor joist) is above the designed base flood elevation (DBFE). Such construction usually means placing the structure on piles (pilings), and these pilings must also be anchored to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement due to the combination effects of wind and water loading forces of the 100 year storm. A registered professional engineer or architect must develop, review and certify the structural design, specifications and plans. The 50% Rule also applies here too.

The Coastal A Zone: is a term that is used to draw a distinction between coastal V zones and inland A Zones, and to highlight similarities between V Zones and A Zones in coastal areas. A building in this area is subject to breaking wave heights between 2.9 feet and 1.5 feet. Building damage in Coastal A Zones is consistent with those observed in V Zones, not riverine A Zones. The City has not mapped the Coastal A zone at this time.

83. What is the Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS)?

The CBRS is a system of protected coastal areas that includes ocean-front land, the Great Lakes and Other Protected Areas (OPAs). Coastal barriers serve as important buffers between coastal storms and inland areas, often protecting properties on land from serious flood damage. Also, coastal barriers provide a protective habitat for aquatic plants and animals. The Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) of 1982 restricted development on the CBRS, in an effort to protect the barrier system and prevent future flood damage. If you live in a CBRS area, you are eligible for federally regulated flood insurance only if your property was built before 1982 and your community participates in the NFIP. However, there are no CBRS zones in Savannah’s City limits.

84. What is the “50% Rule”?

The “50% rule” states that if a pre-FIRM house, a structure built prior to May 21, 1971, is below the BFE and costs of repairs or renovations, cumulative over a five year period, exceeds 50% of the current Fair Market Value of the structure only, then the structure must be brought into the compliance with the City’s current Flood Damage Protection Ordinance.

85. I live in a low-risk flood zone. Do I really need flood insurance?

Most likely, yes. It's a good idea to buy flood insurance even if you live in a low or moderate-risk area. Almost 25 percent of all flood insurance claims come from areas with low-to-moderate flood risk. You may qualify for the Preferred Risk Policy.

86. What are benchmark, datum, and datum types?

A benchmark is a fixed point with a reference measurement associated to it and an elevation is the measurement of a distance above the set point. So a concrete monument can be at 18 and the finish floor of a dwelling is 3 feet above the marker making the finish floor elevation to be 21. Datum is an assigned standard measurement associated to the reference marker; similar to how a foot is associated with Standard English and a meter is metric. There are three different datum references: Mean Sea Level (MSL), National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD29) and North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88). The original Flood Insurance Rate Mate (FIRM) were developed using NGVD 1929 datum, but all Chatham County FIRM dated September 26, 2008 and later are based on NAVD 1988. The change of datum is a primary reason for the decrease of Base Flood Elevations on the 2008 FIRM maps. Bench mark elevations relative to NAVD 88 are available from NGS through the World Wide Web at National Geodetic Survey. A rough conversion of NGVD to NAVD in Savannah is by subtracting .93’ from NAVD 29 elevation.

87. How can I remove my property from the Floodplain?

If someone disagrees with the FIRM determination for a property or structure, he or she may contact a registered land surveyor to complete a detailed study of the property. If the surveyor determines that the existing ground elevation is actually outside the designated flood plain, the owner can request from FEMA a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA). The LOMA is a legal description in which FEMA recognizes the new determination.

88. What are some of the main construction tips for the different zones?

1. Zone X: The Flood Damage Protection Ordinance (FDPO) does not have any mandatory requirements in the X zone, but owners should build up the structure at least one foot above finish grade and purchase flood insurance at a preferred rate.
2. Zone X-500 or Shaded X: This area is projected to have a foot of water standing if experience a storm intensity of a small hurricane. Flood insurance is strongly encouraged to be purchased at a preferred rate and the finish floor elevation to be constructed at least two feet above the highest adjacent finished grade.
3. Zone AH & AE:
* Finish floor or bottom of the lowest wooden floor joist to be at or above the Base Flood Elevation plus one foot freeboard.
* Hydrostatic Vents are required if have a crawl space or garage below the DBFE.
* Flood resistant materials shall be used below the DBFE.
* Bottom of exterior A/C unit and bottom of all duct work,plus generators and natural gas must be above DBFE.
* Elevation Certificates (EC): two submissions of an EC are required.
+ “Under Construction” EC is required to be submitted once the lowest finish floor has been set to verify the lowest floor elevation. No additional inspections can be completed until the EC has been submitted and reviewed by the Floodplain manager.
+ “Finish Construction” EC is required to record the lowest habitable finish floor, garages floor, a/c units, hydrostatic vents, and fuel tanks servicing the dwelling. Note the Finish Construction EC is required prior to releasing of power and Certificate of Occupancy.
* New construction and additions must provide a “No Adverse Impact” letter from a Georgia licensed engineer certifying the match of compensatory storage.
4. Zone VE
* Materials requirement and Elevation Certificates: Same as above AE & AH.
* Cannot bring Fill onto the site.
* Cannot have reinforced parking slabs.
* Must have the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member at or above the DBFE.
* Must have Georgia licensed engineer design and certify “as-built” of the foundation, freedom of obstruction, and breakaway walls.
* Submit and record with the deed a “Non Conversion” letter stating that the area below the main structure will not be converted into a habitable space.
* Hydrostatic vents are not permitted – enclosures require BREAKAWAY WALLS only.
* New construction and additions must provide a “No Adverse Impact” letter from a Georgia licensed engineer certifying the match of compensatory.
* Storage Flood insurance rates increase dramatically for enclosures larger than 300 square feet.

89. Why can’t hydrostatic vents be used in the VE zone?

The VE zone requires designed breakaway walls which depend on 20 pounds per square foot to 10 pounds of water pressure to cause the walls to collapse; there by, protecting the structure by allowing the waves and flowing water to freely pass between the piles. If the breakaway walls have vents in them the water pressure will equalize on both sides of the wall causing the design walls to fail and remain attached to the pile. The walls and piles are now acting as one unit, jointly absorbing the wave action and water flow, increasing the risk of permanent damage to the foundation system and possibly causing the structure to collapse.

90. What is compensatory Storage?

The City’s Flood Damage Protection Ordinance (FDPO) restricts new development from obstructing the flow of water and increasing flood heights. However, this provision does not address the need to maintain flood storage. Especially in flat areas, the floodplain provides a valuable function by storing floodwaters. When fill or buildings are placed in the flood fringe, the flood storage areas are lost and flood heights will go up because there is less room for the floodwaters. This is particularly important in smaller watersheds which respond sooner to changes in the topography. One approach that may be used to address this issue is to require compensatory storage to offset any loss of flood storage capacity. The most common solution to meet the compensatory storage requirement is to remove exist earth equaling to the amount of cubic feet of water the construction is displacing. The quantity is measured from the existing grade up to the BFE.

91. What is the difference between a Retention Pond and a Detention Pond?

A Retention Pond permanently holds the water all the time and does not have a natural discharge. A Detention Pond temporally holds the water allowing the water to drain slowly into the drainage system. Both ponds allow the water to escape by evaporation or absorption back into the ground. The ponds are mechanisms to hold the rain water as not to over burden the storm water conveyance system.

92. How do ponds prevent flooding?

As development occurs impervious surfaces and rain gutters are being installed. Rain water that would absorb into the ground is now being pushed off site in an increased amount and faster. Storm water systems are design to transport a set amount of water over a period of time. Increasing the amount of water going to the system will over tax the system thereby causing water back up and flooding. The ponds are designed to hold back certain amount of water and releasing the storm water at a later time when the system is not so full.

93. What else can I do to prevent my house from flooding?

Besides flood insurance, you should protect your structure by ordinary means. For example, do not sweep or blow yard leaves, pine needles, grass clippings or soil into the storm system. This clogs up the pipes and prevents water from draining. If you see someone dumping trash or debris in the canals, please report it to City’s Customer Service desk at 651-6565.

Besides flood insurance, you should protect your structure by ordinary means. For example, do not sweep or blow yard leaves, pine needles, grass clippings or soil into the storm system. This clogs up the pipes and prevents water from draining. If you see someone dumping trash or debris in the canals, please report it to City’s Customer Service desk at 651-6565.

94. What is the difference between a Flood watch and Flood warning?

Flood watch is when conditions are in place for a flood event but location and magnitude are still uncertain. Prepare for flooding.
Flood warning is when a flood is imminent or occurring. Take immediate action to protect lives/property.

95. Where can I get More Information?

The library at 2002 Bull Street has the FIRM maps and additional documents pertaining to flood plain management topics. FIRM maps can be view and FIRMettes can be created on the web at www.msc.fema.gov. The local website www.sagis.org is another great source of on-line information on contour elevation, flood zones and dwelling history. If you would like further information on flooding, flood insurance, flood zones, retrofitting, how to pick a contractor, ect., you may call City of Savannah Development Services Department, (912)651-6530 or visit the Flood Protection Information page on the City’s main web page at www.savannahga.gov. For property in the unincorporated area, contact the Chatham County Engineering Department at (912) 652-7800 or on the web at www.chathamcounty.org.

96. Where can I get a Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) application?

Applications are available from the Clerk of Councils office in City Hall, the Development Services Department located at 5515 Abercorn Street.

97. Can I apply for a rezoning or text amendment to the zoning ordinance?

Yes. Rezoning or text amendments may be applied for through the Clerk of Council’s office. An application may be obtained from the City Website by clicking here.

98. What is my property zoned?

General information for the entire County is available on the SAGIS website at http://sagis.org/. While generally accurate, you should not rely on that information when entering into any contractual obligations. Please call the City of Savannah Zoning office at (912) 651-6530 and speak to a zoning inspector to verify the correct information before signing any agreements.

99. How close can I build to the property line?

That depends. Please call City of Savannah Zoning office at (912) 651-6530 and speak to a zoning inspector to determine the zone and its respective setbacks.

100. What are the required building setbacks for my property?

Required building setbacks can be influenced by any of several requirements. Call City of Savannah Zoning office at (912)651-6530 and speak to a zoning inspector.

101. What is the first step in establishing a business?

You should first contact the City of Savannah Zoning office at (912) 651-6530, speak to a zoning inspector and verify the zoning district allows the proposed use.

102. Is it a requirement to reside in the residence when establishing a residential daycare?

Yes. Unless operated in conjunction with a school or religious institution, such use shall, within any "R" district, be considered an accessory use. The primary use of the structure utilized shall be for a residence and said residence shall be occupied.

103. Is there such a use as a vacation rental?

No. A vacation rental is not a specifically listed use in the zoning ordinance. However, it is likely that what you may be proposing, the ordinance classify an inn. Hence, depending on the zone, you may be able to establish an inn. Call City of Savannah at (912) 651-6530 and speak with the City of Savannah Zoning Administrator or call MPC at (912) 651-1455 and speak to a planner.

104. If the use that I am proposing is different from the current use, but no improvements to the building is needed, am I required to obtain a new Certificate of Occupancy?

Yes. The zoning ordinance requires a new Certificate of Occupancy whenever there is a change of use.

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Doing Business

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1. What is a sourcing event?

A sourcing event is a request for a bid, information, proposal or other solicitation we choose to make available over our web portal. An event might have many lines, and you may bid on (respond to) any or all lines. We usually establish terms and conditions specific to each event, which you must agree to before responding. We may also attach questions to an event, which are sometimes required for all who respond to the event.

2. How can I find events to respond to?

Anyone viewing our portal can browse open sourcing events to see an events list.


If you have registered and are logged in, you can receive emails that notify you immediately when an event is released. To sign up for this, select Update Account Information to select commodity codes that your company supplies. Also make sure you have provided a current email address and selected to receive emails from us. When an event is released to our web portal that matches the commodity codes you have set up, you (and your proxy, if you have one) may be notified by email. If allowed by our policy, our purchasing staff may also choose to make an event visible to you and other selected suppliers that is not visible to everyone who visits our website.


You cannot respond to a closed event

3. How can I get more information about an event?

Select an event on an events list to view its details. You can select print to send a printable version of the event to your default printer.


If you still have questions, you can ask them on the Q and A forum tab on the event page (if this event contains a Q and A forum tab). When you submit a question, our purchasing staff will respond to you by e-mail. Be aware that purchasing staff may also choose to publish your question with the other event information if it will help ensure a fair bidding process. In this case, your anonymous question and our answer will be available to any supplier who views the event.


Answers to questions asked by others may be viewed on the Q and A forum panel on the event summary.

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Economic Development

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1. Do I need a Business License to start a business?

Businesses operating in the City of Savannah are required to have a Business Tax Certificate instead of a business license. The Business Tax Certificate is required by Article Y, Business Tax, of the current City of Savannah, GA, Revenue Ordinance.

For more information about the Business Tax Certificate and Article Y, please contact the Revenue Department at 651-6451.
Business & Alcohol Regulations

2. Where do I go to obtain a Business Tax Certificate application?

A Business Tax Certificate application can be obtained at the Revenue Department located in the Broughton Municipal Building located at 132 E. Broughton Street, 2nd floor (corner of Broughton and Abercorn Streets) or from their website. Business hours are Monday - Friday, 8:15am - 5:00pm (with the exception of holidays). For more information about the Business Tax Certificate application process, please contact the Revenue Department at 651-6451.

Business & Alcohol Regulations

3. Who do I contact regarding the zoning classification for the location I am considering for my business?

Zoning verification is a crucial step in planning your business. It is the responsibility of the prospective business owner to verify that the location being considered meets the City’s zoning ordinance for that area. Also, this must be verified before a Business Tax Certificate can be issued. For verification, please contact the City of Savannah’s Development Services Department at (912) 651-6530.
Go to Development Services

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Flood Protection Information

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1. What is the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) used for?

The FIRM maps were devised as a means to warn potential property owners and mortgage companies of areas for probable flooding. Also, Insurance Companies base their policy rates on the map’s flood zones. City officials use FIRM maps to enforce building code regulations. Depending upon the zone the structure is in determines the stringency of the needed requirements.

2. Where can I get More Information?

The library at 2002 Bull Street has the FIRM maps and additional documents pertaining to flood plain management topics. FIRM maps can be view and FIRMettes can be created on the web at www.msc.fema.gov. The local website www.sagis.org is another great source of on-line information on contour elevation, flood zones and dwelling history. If you would like further information on flooding, flood insurance, flood zones, retrofitting, how to pick a contractor, ect., you may call City of Savannah Development Services Department, (912)651-6530 or visit the Flood Protection Information page on the City’s main web page at www.savannahga.gov. For property in the unincorporated area, contact the Chatham County Engineering Department at (912) 652-7800 or on the web at www.chathamcounty.org.

3. How do I know if I am at risk of flooding?

The fastest and easiest way is by referring to the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) Flood Insurance Rating Map (FIRM) published by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The FIRM maps were published in September 1970 and have been revised several times since then; the latest version is dated September 26, 2008.

4. What kinds of property are not insurable under the NFIP?

Buildings entirely over water or principally below ground, gas and liquid storage tanks, animals, birds, fish, aircraft, wharves, piers, bulkheads, growing crops, shrubbery, land, livestock, roads, machinery or equipment in the open, and most motor vehicles are not insurable. Most contents and finishing materials located in a basement or in enclosures below the lowest elevated floor of an elevated building constructed after the FIRM became effective are not covered.

5. What are FIRM Panels and how many are there?

FIRM stands for "Flood Insurance Rate Map". Savannah’s community maps are divided into over 50 different FIRM panels; however, there are over 90 panels for the entire Chatham County area. Each panel is assigned a number, such as 0235 F or 0036 F. Most of downtown Savannah is split between 0153F and 0154F. When you call for a zone determination you will get a response like, “1 Bull Street is in an X zone, from FIRM map 135163, Panel 0154F, revised date September 26, 2008.” Or, “1 Sally Mood Drive is in an AE 12 zone from FIRM map 135163, Panel 0164 F revised date September 26, 2008.”
Visit the Document Center to view FIRM maps

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Housing

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1. What are the eligibility requirements for single-family homes that are financed by the Housing Department (DreamMaker homes)?

Eligibility for these homes, which are available for purchase, broadly are:

• 
  Household income between 80% and 120% of area median income by family size (varies by funding source)


• Completion of a homeowner education course


• Ability to secure a 1st position mortgage from a private lender (the housing department has limited assistance available for gap financing through 2nd position mortgages)

For complete information on DreamMaker homes, visit the DreamMaker page of the housing department website, or make an appointment with a loan officer at (912) 651-6926.

2. Does the Housing Department assist with housing searches for individuals looking for affordable units to rent or buy?

The Housing Department is primarily tasked with the creation, rehabilitation, and preservation of affordable housing, and does not currently assist in housing searches.


The Housing Department does maintain a real-time listing of all DreamMaker homes available for purchase, but this is a limited portion of the local affordable housing market. If you are interested in purchase opportunities for DreamMaker homes, please visit the DreamMaker page of the housing department website or make an appointment with a Loan Officer by calling (912) 651-6926.

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Human Resources

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1. Is it possible to apply for a position that is not currently listed, just to have an application on record for a future opening?

We only accept applications for positions that are currently open. The City updates the website weekly, so check every Monday for newly posted jobs.

2. I completed an application last month for another position and I want to apply for a secretary position listed this week. Can I just use that same application for both positions?

Yes. However, you must complete a supplemental questionnaire for each position.

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Main

Show All Answers

1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Mobility & Parking Services

Show All Answers

1. How do I apply for a tour guide permit?

To obtain a tour guide permit, an application must be submitted to the Transportation Office. It is required that the following information also be included with the application:

--All tour guides that are required to drive must submit a certified 7 year driving history, no more than 90 days old.
--Walking and Step-On guides must have a valid picture ID. A driving history is not required for these types of guides.
--A current physician's certificate is required for all applicants. DOT physicals are also accepted.
--All applicants are required to submit a criminal background check issued by the local Police Department, fee may apply
--Applicants must study the "Manual for Instruction and Licensing of Tour Guides in the City of Savannah" and take the corresponding Tour Guide test. A passing grade for the test is 80% or higher.
More information...

2. How do I use the public docks at Rousakis Plaza on River Street?

The City of Savannah currently operates over 700 linear feet of public floating docks, and nearly 800 linear feet of public bulkheads. We're delighted to host visitors who arrive by boat, and ask that you fill out the dock registration form so we can get to know our visitors better. Slip rate fees for the floating docks are currently $1.50 per linear foot per day; however, any boat may use the docks for up to 3 hours at no charge. For more information, call the dockmaster at (912) 651-3634 Moday-Friday before 5pm. For information after hours, call (912) 651-6477. More information...

3. Where are the City public parking garages & lots?

The City of Savannah operates over 3,000 metered parking spaces, 5 public parking garages, and 6 surface lots in downtown Savannah. Visit the Mobility & Parking website for more information. More information

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Parks and Recreation Services

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1. Where can I get information on summer camps?

Download the City of Savannah Recreation Services summer camp registration information and schedule.

2. Who do I call to find out about youth and adult sports?

Contact Athletic Services at (912) 351-3852.

3. What are the contact number for Athletics?

Youth and Adult Basketball City Athletics Office – (912) 351-3852
Youth and Adult Baseball City Athletics Office – (912) 351-3852
Cheerleading City Athletics Office – (912) 351-3852
Adult Softball City Athletics Office – (912) 351-3852
Special Needs Child Earl Etheridge - (912) 351-3852

4. When is my team's next game?

Schedules are prepared and made available to coaches the Thursday or Friday before a league opens. It is the coach’s responsibility to get the information to his/her team members.

5. Will inclement weather cause a game cancellation?

In case of inclement weather, the decision regarding whether games will be played is always made late in the day (about 4:00 p.m.). The reason for this is because it can rain in the morning and be sunny and dry by late afternoon. Therefore, to find out if the games are on, call the Parks & Recreation Services Department Information Line at 651-3600 after 4 p.m.

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Public Information Office

Show All Answers

1. How do I request public records from the City of Savannah?

An Open Records Request should be made directly to the custodian of the records that are sought. Under the Georgia Open Records Act, all public records are available for inspection and copying unless they are specifically exempted from disclosure under the law. If a government agency or custodian of public records withholds a public document from production under an Open Records Request, they must cite to the provision of Georgia law that exempts the record from being produced.

A request to inspect or copy records may be made either orally or in writing. For purposes of documenting and clarifying the scope and timing of the request, it is a better practice to make the request in writing. Requests for public records from the City of Savannah can be made using the Public Records Request form. Public Records Request Form

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Purchasing

Show All Answers

1. Where do I go to learn about doing business with the City?

You are cordially invited to the workshop Doing Business with the City of Savannah, which
is held the fourth Thursday of each month at the Entrepreneurial Center, located at:
801 E. Gwinnett St.
Savannah, GA 31401.

2. How do I register as a supplier?

View the supplier registration page.

3. What is a sourcing event?

A sourcing event is a request for a bid, information, proposal, or other solicitations we choose to make available over our web portal. An event might have many lines, and you may bid on (respond to) any or all lines.


We usually establish terms and conditions specific to each event, which you must agree to before responding. We may also attach questions to an event, which are sometimes required for all who respond to the event.

4. How can I find events to respond to?

Anyone viewing our portal can click the Browse Open Sourcing Events link to see an events list.
If you have registered and are logged in, you can receive e-mails that notify you immediately when an event is released. To sign up for this, click Update Account Information to select commodity codes that your company supplies. Also make sure you have provided a current e-mail address and selected to receive e-mails from us. When an event is released to our web portal that matches the commodity codes you have set up, you (and your proxy, if you have one) may be notified by e-mail. If allowed by our policy, our purchasing staff may also choose to make an event visible to you and other selected suppliers that is not visible to everyone who visits our web site.

You cannot respond to a closed event.

5. What if I have trouble logging into the portal?

The primary contact for your company will set up your account and give you your username and temporary password. If you can't log into our site, make sure your computer does not have Numlock or Capslock set, because this changes how your password appears (consult your computer's documentation for details).
Too many toolbars (including the Google toolbar) can also cause problems. Press the F11 key to expand the browser to full screen without toolbars.

Also make sure that your computer monitor's resolution is set to at least 1024 x 768 pixels (instructions for this are given in the answer to the question, "Why do I get an error message").

If you try multiple times to log in and are not successful, the system will eventually prevent you from trying. Please try again later on. If you still cannot log in after waiting, please contact us.

If you thought you were registered but now find that you are not, it may be because:

When you originally provided a password, you typed it two different ways
You forgot to provide (or later deleted) commodity codes that were required
You forgot to provide (or later deleted) your answer to a question that was required
If you are still having problems, call us. We can offer assistance, register you over the phone, or accept a paper bid.

6. How do I change my password?

Log in. Click Change Password. You will be prompted for your old password, then you must type the new password twice. Click Save. You can use the new password immediately the next time you log in.

7. What if I forget my password?

If you forget your password, provide your username on the Login page, then click the forgotten password link. You will be prompted to answer the question(s) for which we stored your previous answers. After answering them, you can type your new password twice, then click Save to log in.

8. Where can I get information about what you require of suppliers?

Click the Register link to view a page containing a link to our Terms and Conditions. You must accept them before you can proceed with registration. Also, we usually attach additional Terms and Conditions to each event, which you can view by clicking the Browse Open Sourcing Events link, then clicking an event and viewing the Terms And Conditions tab.

9. If I exit in the middle of a task, will my work be saved?

There may be times when unforeseen circumstances prevent you from responding to an event or completing registration in one session. While responding to an event, if you click Next or Finish before submitting the response, your bid will be saved in Draft status on the Open for Bids page. During registration, if you click Cancel before providing contact information for your company and yourself, there is no record of you in our system. If you click Finish after providing contact information but before completing registration, you will see a page telling you what is missing before your registration will be complete. Click OK to go back to the Home page or Back to continue providing your information.

10. How do I print an event and attachments to a bid proposal?

Open the event. In the Summary view, click the Print button to generate a printable report. Print attachments separately; find them in the body of the Summary tab or under one or more of the other tabs. Open the attachment and print.

11. How do I register as a supplier on your site?

To register as a supplier, click the Register link on the Welcome page. If you are the first person registering from your company, you become the "primary contact" - the administrator of your company's account with us. We require you to accept our Terms and Conditions on your company's behalf before you can proceed with registration. You will set up the company information and your own contact information (including e-mail) as the primary contact. You'll maintain your company's information in the future using the Update Account Information link.
The primary contact can also set up logins for other Supplier Contacts in your company, so you may wish to identify these people before you get started. They will log in later using the login information you set up, and afterward will maintain their own contact information, including changing the password you set up for them. A primary contact cannot view the responses of other people at his or her company.

The next time after registration that you and other Supplier Contacts log in, you will be prompted to answer some questions. Your answers will be used to verify your identity later, if you ever forget your password.

12. How will I know when my registration is complete?

Registration is complete when you complete all required fields and click Finish. You'll see a Congratulations page, then immediately be logged in so you can respond to events if you wish. If you are unsure whether you have completed registration, click the Check Registration Status link. Be aware that if you later delete some required information, your registration status can change back to "Not Complete".
Although we send you an e-mail confirming that a login was created for you, this e-mail does not necessarily mean your registration is complete.

Please note: If you get a "Duplicate Tax ID" message when you try to register, this may mean someone has already registered your company as a supplier on our site. In this situation, please contact the Purchasing Department at (912) 651-6422.

13. How do I update my contact information?

Most suppliers get their login from the primary contact at their company. After you get a login, you can change your own contact information. First, log in. Click the Update Account Information link and change any of the information you can access. You can change your personal contact information, select commodity codes for items you supply, and designate a proxy if you wish. When you are done, click the Finish button. If you make changes to your name and other details, they will not take effect until the next time you log in.
If you are the primary contact, you can click the Update Account Information link to change your own contact, commodity code, and proxy information. In addition, you can change Company Information and answers to our questions (if any), and use the Add New Contact tab to add or look up Supplier Contacts (except that you cannot look up existing passwords or view others' responses to events).

See General Questions for information about changing your password.

14. Why is it important to set up commodity codes on my profile?

Commodity codes allow you to tell us what types of events you want us to notify you about. If you have supplied a current e-mail address and indicated you wish to receive e-mail, then it is easier for our purchasing staff to notify you when we release an event matching any of the commodity codes you have indicated. You maintain commodity codes as part of your Supplier Contact profile, so different Supplier Contacts from your company can be notified about different events. If you are the primary contact, the codes you set up are your own and do not automatically carry over to other Supplier Contacts you may have set up for your company.

If you do not set up commodity codes, you may not see all events on our web portal and are unlikely to receive e-mail notifications alerting you to events of interest. If we have required that you provide commodity codes, you will not be able to complete registration - and bid on events - without providing at least one code.

When adding commodity codes, make sure to move each code you want to the Selected (upper) section of the page before continuing.

15. What is a proxy?

A proxy is a person who receives a copy of a Supplier Contact's event notifications. A proxy cannot submit responses. A Supplier Contact might choose to designate a proxy, for example, before an extended absence when the Suppler Contact may not have immediate access to e-mail. An office support person who has been set up as a proxy can monitor events and let the Supplier Contact or a colleague know that a bid opportunity has come up.

16. Why do I get an error message when trying to access your web page?

You may see a message when you try to access our site if the browser is not maximized or if you have partial pages (such as a bookmarks or Favorites list) displayed.

To correct this, click OK until the message box closes, then maximize your browser and close the bookmarks list. If you are still having problems, it is possible that your computer's monitor is set to a low screen resolution, which you can increase.

In Windows, click Start > Settings > Control Panel > Display > Settings > Screen Resolution, and drag the bar until it shows a resolution of at least 1024 x 768 pixels. Click OK.

It is not necessary to restart your computer to use this setting. This setting will also resize other programs you run and will remain on your monitor until you change it.

17. How do I submit a response?

Only suppliers who have completed registration may respond to events. Please carefully review information under all tabs before responding. Click Respond Now on an event listing to display the Event Response page. View the Terms and Conditions for this event by clicking the link, if any. You must accept the Terms and Conditions before you can submit a response, then click Next. If you decide not to respond, please select No Bid and click Next.
Any response you submit must contain at least one line, and it is possible that an event will require you to respond to all lines. Click the Respond link for a line. When completing lines, you can respond for the full quantity or for a partial quantity. If you choose to respond to some but not all of the lines, please check No Bid for the lines you are not interested in. If you want to indicate that you will not be charging for an item - for example because it is a promotion, or an accessory, or a sample - select "No Charge" at the line level.

An event or line may include required question(s) that you must answer as part of your response.

You can attach a pricing catalog or other information using the Attachments tab of the Event Response page.

When you have nearly completed your response, the portal may display a list of messages indicating if you have missing information. When your response is complete, click Submit then OK to send us your response now, or just click OK to save your response in Draft status for submitting later. We are unable to award to responses that are in Draft status. If you click OK without submitting, a message may display reminding you of the submission deadline.

If you want to submit a response by mail or phone instead of online, contact our purchasing staff.

18. How do I retrieve and submit a response I drafted earlier?

Log in, then click View Bid History for responses you have prepared, including responses with a status of Draft. Click the draft event whose response you want to change. The Terms and Conditions will already be marked as accepted; click Next. To edit your response to a line, click the Edit Response link. To manage any attachments to your responses, click Next. Click Finish to return to the line list. When you are done with all your line edits, click Finish from the lines list. Click Submit, then OK.
You cannot respond to an event after it is closed, even if your draft was begun before the close date.

19. How can I see my past responses?

Log in, then click the View Bid History link to view the Bid History page. Optionally complete one or more search fields and click Search. If an event is cancelled after you bid on it, it will continue to be listed on your Bid History page.

20. How do I add to or change a response I already submitted?

Log in, then click Bid History for responses you have submitted. Check the box of the event whose response you want to change. Click the Modify Response, at the top of the page, to place the response into Draft status, click OK to verify you want to proceed. Click Open. The Terms and Conditions will already be marked as accepted; click Continue. To edit your response to a line, click the Edit Response link. Click Continue to return to the line list. When you are done with all your line edits, click Continue from the lines list; click Continue thru the questions, Click Continue to access the Submit button. Don't forget to click Submit to send us your response again. Each time you reaccess your submitted response via the Edit Responses link - even if you don't change anything - it returns to Draft status until you click Submit, Click Done.
If you want to withdraw your response from consideration, use the check box and click Withdraw Response Submitted. The response will be visible from View Bid History with a status of Withdrawn. If you decided not to withdraw your response you may reinstate as long as the event is open. Reinstated responses must be re-submitted.

21. Who will see my response?

After you submit it, your response to a non-sealed-bid event may be viewed by those on our staff who are responsible for the event. However, your response to a formal (sealed-bid) event cannot be viewed by anyone but you until after the response period for the event has closed. Your response is never visible to other suppliers during the response and award phases. It is possible that we may publish some information about a successful response in e-mails and/or on the web portal as part of Event History, so that suppliers who submitted unsuccessful responses can see the outcome of the award.

22. How will I know if my response was successful?

If you have indicated that you wish to receive e-mail, you may be informed by e-mail when we have made a decision to award an event or event lines to one or more specific suppliers. However if your response was not successful, you may not receive an e-mail - in this case, you should check the portal to see if we have posted award status. If we also choose to post some information about the award to the portal, you can see this on the event record under Award Summary. If there is a dispute period for the event, and our decision is successfully disputed, you may receive a subsequent award notice with new information.

23. How do I find and acknowledge addendums?

Addendum details are available under the Terms and Conditions tab in the Summary View of the bid proposal. Use Browse Open Sourcing Events to find the event and open it.
Acknowledge receipt of addendum when entering your bid response. You will be presented with an event question after your line responses are complete.

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Real Property Services

Show All Answers

1. What kind of property does RPS purchase?

Real Property Services (RPS) assists other City departments in the acquisition of land for public use, redevelopment and revitalization. These redevelopment areas (officially known as urban redevelopment areas) and the accompanying land-use plans are approved by City Council.

2. How does the City calculate my property value?

The City obtains an independent appraisal to determine the fair market value of a property.

3. If my home floods, am I eligible for FEMA funding?

Only if all other federal guidelines are met.

4. How long does the FEMA process take?

It could range from 24-36 months.

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Recorder's Court

Show All Answers

1. Can I have my case reset or continued?

Only a legal excuse for missing court can result in a case being reset. Legal excuses include incarceration, medical excuse, hospitalization, or death. Anything else is at the discretion of the judges. Continuances will not be granted the day of court except by personal appearance in court by the defendant and/or their attorney.

2. Can I have a jury trial in Recorder’s Court?

No. All trials in Recorder’s Court are bench trials. Bench trials are trials in which evidence is presented to a judge, and in which the judge renders a verdict. However, you can have a trial in state court on a state charge.

3. May I pay my fine online?

Yes. However, not all tickets can be paid online as some require a mandatory court appearance.

4. May I pay my fine with a credit card?

Yes. The court accepts Visa, MasterCard and debit cards. These payments must be paid in person. The court also accepts cash, local personal checks, money orders and certified checks.

5. Do I need an attorney?

The assistance of counsel is your right. However, we cannot advise you as to whether or not you will need an attorney. Additionally, if you seek a court appointed attorney, you will need to contact the Public Defender’s Office. The Public Defender’s Office number is (912) 447-4901.

6. I received a citation for "no proof of insurance" (O.C.G.A. 40-6-10). I have insurance but did not have my insurance card to show to the officer. What do I do?

If you have received a citation for "no proof of insurance", you must provide the court with your insurance card showing that the vehicle you were driving was insured at the time the citation was written. You may file your proof of insurance with the court at the cashier's window prior to your court date. You may also file proof of insurance by mailing it to:
The Recorder's Court of Chatham County
Attention: Cashier
133 Montgomery Street
Savannah, GA 31499

The judge will review the proof of insurance on your court date. You do not have to appear in court; however, if the proof is not accepted by the judge, you will be notified of a new court date.

If the vehicle you were driving was not insured, you must appear in court on your court date.

If the vehicle you were driving is covered by a "fleet policy", you must appear in court and present the insurance card to the judge and to testify that the vehicle is covered by the policy referenced on the card.

7. How many points will be placed on my driver's license?

View the Georgia Points System

See O.C.G.A. 40-5-57 for complete code.

8. The court notified the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety that I didn't appear at my scheduled hearing, what do I do?

If you are licensed by another state, contact the licensing authority of that state.

The Recorder’s Court of Chatham County has notified the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety that you failed to appear before the court to answer to the charges alleged by the officer issuing you a citation. As a result, the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety may have suspended your driving privileges. This suspension will remain active until the Department receives notice from the Court that you have met all sanctions imposed by the Court. If you are licensed by another state, contact the licensing authority of that state.

Once you satisfy the sanctions imposed by the Court, you will be given the “Defendant’s Receipt” (pink receipt) of the suspension notice. If you are licensed by the State of Georgia, you must present this copy to the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety. You can do this by taking this receipt to your local Driver's License Office. If you are licensed by another state, contact the licensing authority of that state.

As a result of this suspension, the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety requires that you pay a reinstatement fee before your driving privileges will be reinstated. The Court will notify the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety that you have satisfied all sanctions imposed. However, the reinstatement process will move faster if take your “Defendant’s Receipt” to the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety or local Driver's License Office. If you are licensed by another state, contact the licensing authority of that state.

If you have any questions regarding your driving privileges you should contact:
Savannah Office
1117 Eisenhower Dr.
Savannah, GA 31405
(912) 691-7400

Main Office
2206 East View Parkway
Conyers, GA 30013-5755
(404) 624-7576

9. How do I get information about the citation I've been issued?

To allow time for your citation to be processed, please wait at least 4 working days before calling. All citations are subject to a fine. After calling the 24 hour information line, you may still have questions. If so, call the Clerk’s Office at (912) 652-7424.

Depending on the agency issuing the citation, the following information may appear on the back of the citation issued to you.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CALL
THE RECORDER’S COURT OF CHATHAM COUNTY
(912) 652-7424

IMPORTANT
If you intend to enter a plea of “not guilty” to the charge(s) against you, contact the Clerk’s Office at the number listed above. You will be assigned a bench trial date different from the date indicated on the front of this citation.

If you wish to waive your right to a hearing and enter a plea of “guilty”, you may pay your fine, in full, by appearing at or mailing your payment to the address below. Be sure to include your citation with your payment. Call the Clerk’s Office or visit the court’s website (www.chathamcourts.org) to determine the amount of the fine.
The Recorder's Court of Chatham County
Attention: Cashier
133 Montgomery Street
Savannah, GA 31401

You may pay your fine between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., Monday-Friday.

If you wish to appear in court to enter a plea of “guilty” or “no contest” to the charge(s) against you, appear in court on the date and time shown on the front of the citation. If you enter a plea of “not guilty” at this hearing, your case will be assigned to a trial calendar and you will be asked to return to court on the trial date.

If you were involved in an accident, you must pay your fine one week prior to the hearing date shown on the front of this citation.

PURSUANT TO GEORGIA CODE 17-6-11, IF YOU HAVE BEEN ISSUED A COURT SUMMONS AND FAIL TO APPEAR TO ANSWER TO THE CHARGE, A WARRANT WILL BE ISSUED FOR YOUR ARREST AND/OR YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE SHALL BE SUSPENDED BY THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY.
THE FOLLOWING OFFENSES REQUIRE A MANDATORY COURT APPEARANCE

1. No Insurance (if unable to provide proof prior to court date).
2. Driving under the influence of alcohol/ drugs.
3. Driving on a suspended or revoked license.
4. Failure to report an accident.
5. Hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident.
6. Using vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer.
7. Racing.
8. Reckless driving, aggressive driving or laying drag.
9. Fraudulent or fictitious use of driver’s license or fraudulently obtaining a driver’s license.
10. Homicide or feticide by vehicle.
11. Homicide or serious injury by interfering with a traffic control device or railroad sign/signal.
12. Serious injury by vehicle.
13. Any felony in which a vehicle is used.

I, THE UNDERSIGNED, DO HEREBY ENTER MY WRITTEN, RATHER THAN PERSONAL APPEARANCE IN THE COURT CASE RESULTING FROM THE VIOLATION CHARGED ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THE CITATION. I UNDERSTAND THAT BY PAYING MY FINE AND NOT PERSONALLY APPEARING BEFORE THE COURT I WAIVE ANY RIGHT THAT I MIGHT HAVE HAD TO A TRIAL BY JUDGE OR JURY AND TO BE REPRESENTED BY COUNSEL. I FURTHER UNDERSTAND THAT BY PAYING THE FINE, I HAVE PLEADED GUILTY TO THE OFFENSE AS CHARGED.

SIGNATURE OF ACCUSED ________________________________________________

10. How do I find out the status of my driver's license?

THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ISSUANCE AND/OR SUSPENSION OF A PERSON'S DRIVING PRIVILEGES. IF YOU HAVE REASON TO BELIEVE THAT YOUR LICENSE HAS BEEN SUSPENDED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AS A RESULT OF A TRAFFIC CONVICTION AND/OR FAILURE-TO-APPEAR, YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE THE COURT WITH SOME AND POSSIBLY ALL OF THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

CITATION NUMBER
DATE OF VIOLATION
TRIAL DATE
DRIVER'S LICENSE NUMBER
COURT CODE NUMBER OR NAME

TO OBTAIN THIS INFORMATION, YOU SHOULD CALL THE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY.
(678) 413-8400

11. What is my right to be represented by an attorney?

You have the right to be represented by an attorney in all criminal proceedings against you. If you are not financially able to employ an attorney of your own choice, you have a right to have the Court appoint an attorney to represent you.
An attorney can help you: (1) understand the charge or charges against you; (2) determine whether a legally sufficient accusation has been filed against you; (3) determine whether you have any defense to the charge or charges against you, possible defenses may include but are not limited to self-defense, alibi, misidentification, accident, and reliance on the presumption of innocence and the State’s burden to prove you guilty on all elements of the charge or charges against you beyond a reasonable doubt; (4) prepare and conduct any trial held on the charge or charges against you; (5) determine what evidence is legally admissible against you; (6) file motions and make objections to exclude evidence which is not legally admissible against you; (7) determine what evidence you would be able to present in your defense; (8) file motions to obtain information from the prosecution, such as police reports, scientific reports, witness statements, video or audiotapes, photographs, etc.; (9) make strategic decisions as to the calling of witnesses and whether or not you should testify at trial; (10) properly preserve legal issues for appeal in the event that you are convicted at trial; (11) conduct plea negotiations on your behalf if you desire to plead guilty to the charge or charges against you; (12) make sure all of your rights as a defendant in a criminal case are protected.

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Recycling

Show All Answers

1. How do I receive a recycling cart?

After water service is established through the City of Savannah’s Utility Service, call 311 to request a recycling cart.

2. When is my recycling collected?

Recycling will be collected twice monthly on the same day as your household waste collection.
Recycling Collection Days

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Research Library and Municipal Archives

Show All Answers

1. Are you the public library?

No. Savannah's public library branches are part of the Live Oak Public Library system. The main public library branch is Bull Street Public Library, located at 2002 Bull Street. The closest branch is the Ola Wyeth Public Library, located just east of City Hall in the Thomas Gamble Building on Bay Street.

2. Can I come in to do research?

The Research Library and Municipal Archives is open to the public for research. However, you must arrange a research appointment before coming to the Library & Archives in City Hall. If you do not have an appointment, we cannot guarantee that staff will be available to assist you. To make a research appointment, please contact the Archivist through Ask a Question.

3. Can I make a remote reference request?

Yes. Please see Ask a Question.

4. What types of records do you have?

One of the main functions of the Research Library & Municipal Archives is to preserve the records of the City of Savannah government. Therefore, we maintain archival records of the Savannah City Council and of the City's operating bureaus and departments. We also maintain publications produced by and/or for the City of Savannah. For more information on our collections, please see Explore the Collections.

5. Do you have records for Chatham County?

No. We maintain the records of the City of Savannah. For records pertaining to the Chatham County government, or property or projects lying in Chatham County but outside of the City of Savannah boundaries, please contact Chatham County at (912) 652-7855. Also see Savannah Area Libraries & Archival Repositories.

6. Do you have genealogy records?

We do not maintain biographical records for Savannahians, unless they had a specific connection to the City of Savannah government (for instance, former mayors, aldermen, or city managers). We do maintain some vital records that are useful for genealogical research, including birth and death registers and cemetery records. For more information on our collections, please see Explore the Collections.

7. Do you have building and property records?

Yes. We maintain records related to City owned buildings and property. We also maintain records of building permits, and some property assessment and tax records that are very useful when conducting property research. For more information on our collections, please see Explore the Collections.

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Revenue

Show All Answers

1. Can I pay my water bill online?

Not yet. Currently, only parking citations and property tax accounts can be paid online.

2. Do you accept payments over the phone?

No, the City of Savannah does not accept payments over the phone. Please visit Revenue Payment Methods for ways you can make a payment.

3. Does my business need a business tax certificate?

All businesses operating in the City of Savannah are required to have a business tax certificate in lieu of a business license as required by Article Y of the current Revenue Ordinance. Please visit Business Tax for additional details on how to obtain a certificate.

4. How often are property tax bills mailed out?

The City of Savannah bills real property tax twice a year and those bills are due around June 1st and November 15th. Personal property and public utilities are due once a year around November 15th. Due dates of the bills do fluctuate, but dates are advertised well in advance. For copies of bills and account information, please visit the Property Tax page.

5. How do I start water service?

Please visit Water Service for information on how to begin your water service.

6. What is the phone number for the refuse department?

The phone number for customer service is 311.

7. Does the City of Savannah have additional sites for water utility payments?

Some check cashing businesses and online payment services accept payments for City accounts, however, these payments are mailed in or hand-delivered to our office and not posted until received by our staff.

8. Do you accept payments over the telephone?

No, the City of Savannah does not accept payments over the telephone.

9. Can I pay my parking tickets in the revenue department?

No, payments for parking tickets should be made at the Bryan Street Parking Garage located at 100 E Bryan St on Reynolds Square. They can be reached at (912) 651-6470 for additional information.

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Savannah Fire & Emergency Services

Show All Answers

1. Does Savannah Fire & Emergency Services offer free smoke detectors?

Yes. Savannah firefighters will install free smoke detectors and batteries for Savannah residents.

Having a working smoke detector in each level of your home will alert you of the dangers from fire and help to keep you safe and sound. Savannah Fire & Emergency Services wants to help protect you from fire by providing FREE home fire safety analyses and FREE installed smoke alarms.

As part of Operation Clean Sweep, firefighters are knocking on doors in Savannah to help educate citizens on the dangers of fire. If you or a loved one live in Savannah and need assistance with home fire safety, please contact our administrative office at 651-6756 for an appointment.

2. How do I obtain a fire report?

Fire reports can be obtained at Savannah Fire & Emergency Services headquarters at 121 E. Oglethorpe Ave. (at the corner of Abercorn St. and E. Oglethorpe Ave.) Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. There is a $5 charge for all reports and payment must be in the form of a cashier’s check or money order payable to Savannah Fire & Emergency Services. No cash is accepted.

3. Can I get my blood pressure checked at the fire station?

Yes. Free blood pressure checks are conducted at all Savannah fire stations whenever firefighters are present.

4. Can I get firefighters or a fire truck to come to my school or community event?

Yes. As part of our focus on public fire safety education, we are happy to participate in your school or community event. We are proud of our profession, our tools and apparatus. Our main focus is fire prevention and safety and we offer programs suited for all ages. Please contact the Savannah Fire Public Information Office at (912) 644-5957 to schedule a visit from the firefighters.

5. Can I tour a Savannah fire station?

Yes. As part of our public fire safety education focus, we are happy to have your group tour any of our fire stations. Please contact the Savannah Fire Public Information Office at (912) 644-5957 to arrange a tour of a fire station

6. What is ISO and why is it important?

Savannah is an ISO Class 2 city. ISO stands for the Insurance Service Office. It is a leading source of information about property/casualty insurance risk. ISO expert staff collects information about municipal fire protection efforts in communities throughout the United States. In each of those communities, ISO analyzes the relevant data and assigns a Public Protection Classification (PPCTM) — a number from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that the area's fire suppression program does not meet ISO's minimum criteria. Just about every aspect of a city and a fire department is evaluated in determining the ISO rating. ISO would give points for everything from the training aids a fire department owned to the distance between fire hydrants.

Virtually all U.S. insurers of homes and business property use ISO's Public Protection Classifications in calculating premiums. In general, the price of fire insurance in a community with a good PPC is substantially lower than in a community with a poor PPC, assuming all other factors are equal.

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Thrive Sustainability Initiative

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1. Does the City have a sustainability plan?

The City has adopted the JoIN Sustainability Plan, the sustainability plan for Chatham County

2. I have a suggestion for the Thrive Sustainability Initiative. Who can I contact?

The Thrive Sustainability Initiative is a committee effort with representation from employees throughout the organization. Garrison Marr helps support the activities of the committee, and he can be reached via email.

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Vehicle Maintenance

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1. How can I purchase a surplus vehicle?

The City of Savannah utilizes online auction methods to sell equipment and surplus inventory.