Frequently Asked Questions

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 kiosks located on the porch of the Bonaventure Cemetery Administration Building, the gazebo at Laurel Grove North, and near the main entrance to Laurel Grove South. Additionally, burial records can be obtained by clicking on the “Burial Records” link on the Department of Cemeteries web page.

No. The Department of Cemeteries does not provide tours; however, tours are available through private tour companies. Additionally, the Bonaventure Historical Society offers free tours on the weekend of 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. 

Eligibility requirements vary by program.  Please visit the Housing Assistance & Application link for requirements.

No.

No.  Persons experiencing homelessness should contact the Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless at 912-977-4864 to learn possible options for assistance.  Persons who are in danger of being evicted for non-payment of rent or those needing security deposits to secure a home are encouraged to contact United Way of the Coastal Empire by calling 211 for possible assistance.

No. For information regarding City demolition and/or new construction projects, please contact the Office of Capital Projects Management at (912) 351-3409 or visit their website at the following link: Office of Capital Projects Management

One time continuance is allowed if done by your court date. After that you must have a court approved excuse (doctor, military deployment orders, jail, or death in the family etc.)

DUI’s will need to get approval from Judge.

No. All trials in Recorder’s Court are bench trials in which the officer is subpoenaed. Bench trials are trials in which evidence is presented to a judge, and in which the judge renders a verdict. However, if you desire a jury trial you can send your case to state court as long as it is not a local ordinance.

Yes, most citations can be paid online; however, not all are eligible and may require a mandatory court appearance. You can go to www.savannahga.gov/recorderscourt to pay your traffic fine. See list of mandatory court appearances on question #10.

Yes. The court accepts Visa, MasterCard and debit cards. The court also accepts cash, money orders and certified checks. NO PERSONAL CHECKS.

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

This violation is a mandatory court appearance and proof must be provided to the Judge on the day of Court.

Visit the www.dds.georgia.gov and view the Georgia Points System. See O.C.G.A. 40-5-57 for complete code or you can call the DMV at 678-413-8400

The Recorder’s Court of Chatham County has notified the Georgia Department of Driving Services (DDS) 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 Driving Services (DDS) may have suspended your driving privileges.

This suspension will remain active until DDS receives notice from the Court that you have met all sanctions imposed by the Court. If you are licensed by another state, you must satisfy Georgia DDS prior to contacting the licensing authority of your state.

Once you satisfy the sanctions imposed by the Court, you will be given the “FTA 912 Release” (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 (DDS). You can do this by taking this receipt to your local Driver's License Office. If you are licensed by another state, you must satisfy Georgia DDS prior to contacting the licensing authority of your state.

As a result of this suspension, the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety (DDS) requires that you pay a reinstatement fee before your driving privileges will be reinstated. The Court will notify DDS that you have satisfied all sanctions imposed. However, the reinstatement process will move faster if you take your “Defendant’s Receipt” (FTA 912 Release) to your local Driver's License Office. If you are licensed by another state, you must satisfy Georgia DDS prior to contacting the licensing authority of your 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 (678) 413-8400

To allow 3 to 4 weeks for your citation to be processed. All citations are subject to a fine. 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) 652-7425

Email: recorderscourt@savannahga.gov

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-person, online at www.savannahga.gov/recorderscourt or mailing your money order/cashier’s check made payable to Recorder’s Court to the address below.

Be sure to include your citation number on your form of payment. Call the Clerk’s Office or visit the court’s website www.savannahga.gov/recorderscourt to determine the amount of the fine. The Recorder's Court of Chatham County 133 Montgomery Street, Room 101 Savannah, GA 31401

You may pay your fine in-person at the cashier’s window between the hours of 8:15 A.M. and 4:30 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.

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

a. No Insurance (if unable to provide proof prior to court date).

b. Driving under the influence of alcohol/ drugs.

c. No license, driving on a suspended or revoked license.

d. Failure to report an accident.

e. Hit and run or leaving the scene of an accident.

f. Using vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer.

g. Racing.

h. Reckless driving, aggressive driving or laying drag.

i. Fraudulent or fictitious use of driver’s license or fraudulently obtaining a driver’s license.

j. Homicide or feticide by vehicle.

k. Homicide or serious injury by interfering with a traffic control device or railroad sign/signal.

l. Serious injury by vehicle.

m. Any felony in which a vehicle is used.

n. Suspended registration.

o. Striking an unattended vehicle.

p. Speeding: 35 miles or over or if in a school or work zone 30 miles and over

The Georgia Department of Driving Services (DDS) Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety (DDS) 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, you will need to contact Georgia DDS at (678) 413-8400. DDS2GO APP

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 apply for a court-appointed attorney.

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

No, you cannot make a payment over the phone.

Your court date is located toward the bottom of your ticket. If your citation has TBA, you will be notified via mail at the address on your citation with a subpoena.

Please contact DDS at 678-413-8400 and they will give you the citation number, violation date and the Court that has your license suspended.

No, you must appear in front of a judge and have case adjudicated.

This is at the Judges’ discretion.

Yes; however, all local ordinance charges must remain in Recorder’s Court.

If you had a misdemeanor case that was bonded out before seeing the judge at arraignment you will get a subpoena in the mail to the address that was on the bond. WE MUST HAVE AN ACCURATE ADDRESS FOR THE SUBPOENA.

Depending on the age of the case, it could be from immediate or up to 3 to 5 days.

If it is a mandatory court appearance, you must appear in court or have an attorney represent you. Refer to question #10. Otherwise, you can make your payment online or send it through the mail.

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 Municipal Archives is open to the public for research. However, you must arrange a research appointment before coming to the Municipal 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

One of the main functions of the 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

Yes, you can pay your water bill at savannahga.gov/utilitypay. Please have a copy of your latest bill handy when making your payment.

Please visit the How to Set Up Water Service web page for information on how to begin your water service.

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. We recommend using the City's online payment portal for utility bills, www.savannahga.gov/utilitypay.

Yes. Savannah firefighters will install free smoke alarms and free batteries for Savannah residents. Rental properties are excluded. Having a working smoke alarm in each level of your home will alert you in the event of a fire, providing you with extra time to escape. Savannah Fire wants to help protect you from fire by installing free smoke alarms and providing a free home fire safety survey. Home fire safety surveys help residents discover potential fire hazards in their homes. If you or a loved one live in Savannah and need assistance with home fire safety, please call 651-6756.

Fire reports can be obtained 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at the Fire Marshal's Office, located at 10 W. 33rd Street, at the corner of Bull and 33rd streets. There is a $6.50 charge for all reports. Cash is not accepted. Payment must be in the form of a cashier’s check or money order made payable to the Savannah Fire Department.

Yes. Free blood pressure checks are conducted at all Savannah Fire stations whenever firefighters are present. Look for a free blood pressure check sign out front. 

Savannah Fire also conducts blood pressure checks at senior citizens centers, churches and community centers. Contact the Public Information Office at 912-644-5957 to schedule blood pressure checks for your community group.

High blood pressure can lead to devastating consequences, such as stroke, heart failure, heart attack, vision loss, and kidney disease. However, high blood pressure typically has no symptoms. The only way to know if your blood pressure is high is to have it regularly checked. Stop by your neighborhood fire station for a blood pressure check. If you are in an emergency situation call 911:

Station 1 

535 E. 63rd St. 

Station 2 

5 Skyline Dr. 

Station 3

121 E. Oglethorpe Ave.

Station 4

2401 Augusta Ave.

Station 5

10 W. 32nd St.

Station 6

3000 Liberty Pkwy.

Station 7

6902 Sallie Mood Dr.

Station 8
2824 Bee Rd.

Station 9

2235 Capital St. 

Station 10

13710 Coffee Bluff Rd.

Station 11

11844 Apache Ave.

Station 12

1205 Bradley Blvd.

Station 13

11 McKenna Dr.

Station 14

480 Highlands Blvd.

Station 15

740 Chevis Rd.

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, tools and apparatus. Firefighters provide lifesaving fire safety information sessions for all ages and allow groups to explore the equipment used in emergency situations. Please contact the Savannah Fire Public Information Office at (912) 644-5957 to schedule a station tour, fire safety demonstration or apparatus display. 

Savannah Fire’s Public Safety Education Program is a free public service available for school, community and public events. We do not make appearances at birthday parties or for business promotions.

Yes. As part of our Public Fire Safety Education Program, we are happy to host your group at any of our fire stations. Please contact the Savannah Fire Public Information Office at 912 -644-5957 to schedule your free fire station tour.  

Savannah is an ISO Class 1 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. They analyze the relevant data to determine a community’s Public Protection Classification — a number from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection. The ISO classification system evaluates everything from fire department training aids to the distance between fire hydrants. Virtually all U.S. insurers of residential and business property use the ISO Public Protection Classification system to calculate premiums. In general, the price of fire insurance in a community in an ISO Class 1 City is substantially lower than in communities with a poor ISO rating, assuming all other factors are equal.

No. Open burning and bonfires are prohibited under City ordinance. 

Bonfires for ceremonial purposes require a $50 bonfire permit issued by the Fire Prevention Office. Fire equipment fees also apply if fire department equipment is deemed necessary by fire prevention officials.

Other forms of open burning can be conducted on commercial and private property ONLY UNDER THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS WHEN THE PRIMARY PURPOSE IS FOR FOOD PREPARATION OR PROVIDING WARMTH:

• In an approved container and not less than 15 feet from a structure
• On the ground and not less than 50 feet from a structure for piles greater than 3’ x 2’
• On the ground and not less than 25 feet from a structure for piles greater than 3’ x 2’ 
• Charcoal and LP gas cooking devices must be used not less than 10 feet from combustible construction
• Fires must be constantly attended
• A means to extinguish the fire - such as a fire extinguisher, garden hose, buckets of water, available dirt, or sand - must be on hand
• Measures to insure the fire cannot spread must have been taken
• Must not burn materials that cause a hazardous or objectionable situation (i.e. heavy smoke, obnoxious odors, lofting fire brands near flammable liquids)
• Only burn approved materials such as fire wood, kindling, and charcoal. PROHIBITED BURN ITEMS INCLUDE: Leaves, vegetation from land clearing, lumber, construction materials, waste material, garbage, plastic, rubber, liquids not intended as charcoal starters, and similar materials.  
• Portable outdoor fireplaces are not to be operated within 15 feet of structures or combustible materials except at one and two family dwellings
• City Ordinance prohibits the kindling of a fire on a city property such as a public street or park.
• Burning is prohibited on combustible balconies, porches, or patios unless sprinkled.  

Contact the Fire Prevention Office at (912) 644-5960, for further information

Si. Los bomberos de Savannah instalarán alarmas y baterías gratuitas para los residentes de Savannah. Las propiedades de alquiler están excluidas. Tener una alarma de humo que funcione en cada nivel de su hogar lo alertará en caso de incendio, brindándole tiempo adicional para escapar. El departamento quiere ayudarlo a protegerse del fuego mediante la instalación de detectores de humo gratuitos y participando en un cuestionario gratuito de seguridad contra incendios en el hogar. El cuestionario de seguridad contra incendios en el hogar ayudan a los residentes a descubrir posibles riesgos de incendio en sus hogares. Si usted o un ser querido vive en Savannah y necesita ayuda con la seguridad contra incendios en el hogar, llame al 912-651-6756.

Los informes de incendios se pueden obtener de 8 a.m. a 5 p.m., de lunes a Viernes, 10 W. 33rd St. Hay un cargo de $6.50 por todos los informes. El pago en forma de cheque de caja o giro postal debe pagarse al nombre del Departamento de Bomberos de Savannah. No se acepta efectivo.

Si. Se puede chequear la presión arterial gratis en todas las estaciones de bomberos de Savannah, siempre que hayan bomberos presentes, busque por el letrero del mensaje al frente de la estacion. El departamento también lleva a cabo chequeos gratuitos de la presión arterial en centros para personas de edad mayor, iglesias y centros comunitarios. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 912-644-5957 para hacer una cita de chequeos de la presión arterial para su grupo comunitario.

La presión arterial alta puede tener grandes consecuencias devastadoras, como accidente cerebrovascular, colapso cardíaco, ataque cardíaco, pérdida de visión y enfermedad renal. Sin embargo, la presión arterial alta generalmente no tiene síntomas. La única manera de saber si su presión arterial es alta es por chequearla regularmente. Pase por la estación de bomberos de su vecindario para un chequeo gratis de la presión arterial. Si se encuentra en una situación de emergencia, llame al 911.

Las hogueras/fogatas con fines ceremoniales requieren un permiso de $ 50.00 emitido por la Oficina de Prevención de Incendios. Las tarifas de equipo contra incendios también se aplican si los oficiales de prevención de incendios consideran necesario el equipo del departamento de bomberos estar presente.

Otras formas de quema abierta pueden llevarse a cabo en propiedades comerciales y privadas solo bajo condiciones específicas cuando el propósito principal es la preparación de alimentos o para mantener una temperatura agradable. Los materiales aprobados para hacer incendios incluyen leña, leña y carbón. Los materiales prohibidos para quemar incluyen: hojas, vegetación de la limpieza de la tierra, madera, materiales de construcción, materiales de desecho, basura, plástico, gomas, líquidos no destinados a encender carbón y materiales similares.

Para obtener más información, comuníquese con la Oficina de Prevención de incendios al 912-644-5960.

No. The Savannah Fire Department does not offer fire safety education certification courses for caregivers. However, the Georgia office of Insurance and Fire Safety - which requires fire safety certification for caregivers - has an online course registration form on the Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s website at https://www.oci.ga.gov/PublicEducation/CareGiverSignUp.aspx.

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 Monday-Friday before 5pm, after hours, weekends and holidays leave your contact information, someone will return your call if necessary.

Contact 912-651-6468 for parking options.

A Business Tax Certificate application can be obtained at the Revenue Department. 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.

See link->

Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) application is available online at the City's website and the Metropolitan Planning Commission's website. See link below to application. Applications are also available from the Clerk of Council's office in City Hall, the City of Savannah Planning and Urban Design Department located at 20 Interchange Drive, and the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) located at 110 East State Street. 

Food trucks and push carts must pay an annual fee of $150 and submit an application for Mobile Food Service Unit (MFSU) Location Approval to the zoning office if they are interested in public property sites, private property sites, or both. After obtaining zoning location approval, they must obtain permits for their Base of Operation and their food truck from the Georgia Department of Public Health prior to operation. They must also obtain a Business Tax Certificate (a.k.a. business license) from the City Revenue Department. For more information, visit this link:

Typical timeframe to obtain a Business Location Approval on average is 7 to 10 business days. The business use/zoning classification, a change of business use/occupancy, the volume of applications received all factor in the processing timeframe. Note: If a building/trade permit or a site development permit is required your BLA will be pending the completion of those permits and a certificate of occupancy(CO) or a certificate of completion(CC) is obtained

Applications are available online at the City's website and the Metropolitan Planning Commission's website. See link below to application. Applications are also available from the Clerk of Council's office in City Hall, the City of Savannah Development Services Department located at 5515 Abercorn Street, and the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) located at 110 East State Street.

The City of Savannah uses a website called eTRAC https://eTRAC.savannahga.gov for online permit tracking. For information on how to use this site to track your projects as they go through the permitting process, click here.

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 trades. To schedule a building inspection by phone, dial (912) 651-6530 ext. 2498. 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. For more information about inspection requests, such as how to make a request by email, fax, or the City’s online permit tracking system (eTRAC), visit the Inspections page here:

Street sweeping schedules will not be altered after an official holiday.  Streets will be swept in accordance with the established street sweeping schedule.

Streets are not swept on official holidays.  If your street is missed due to the service day falling on a holiday, the street will be made up within 7 days.

Always check the signage on the street when parking.  There are multiple signs posted on every street that indicate prohibited parking times.

No.  It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure vehicles are moved during designated sweeping hours.  The street sweeping citations are not waived on a first offense or annual basis.

Yes, street sweeping citations can be contested by filing an appeal online or by calling the City of Savannah Sanitation Department at 912-651-6579.

The Street Cleaning Director finalizes all street sweeping citation appeals.  If you wish to appeal further, you will need to obtain a subpoena from Mobility and Parking Services and a Recorder’s Court Judge will make the final decision on the citation.

No, it is the driver’s responsibility to arrange off street parking.  No vehicle can be left for an extended period of time during sweeping hours posted on the No Parking Signs.

No. Doing so is against the City’s ordinance (See City Ordinance).  Also, a street sweeper is not designed to handle bulk leaves, and the street sweeper operator is instructed to go around raked/blown out leaves.  Please bag all yard waste in biodegradable brown paper bags and place at your point of collection. 

To request City services, please call 3-1-1 or complete the online customer service e-Request form.

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department contact information for the City of Savannah. To request City services, call 3-1-1 or use our online form at savannahga.gov/311.

Tabs 

• The site is broken up into 14 tabs that can be clicked along the top of the site. 
• The first tab shows ALL projects on the map. 
• Any project name will be found in the search. 
• To see a table of projects, on the left pane, To view a table of all Projects CLICK HERE on this tab takes you to a complete list of all current CIP projects, whether it’s on the map or not. Under that, there are links to view projects by district. All projects will be displayed that fall within that district, regardless of category. Projects can be sorted by each column, and searched by name or funding source. Close this tab to return to the map. Click on a project number link to go to a project detail page. ***Enable pop-ups for this site if you are unable to see the detailed project page.***

• To clear the search address and start over, click the X to the right of the search field text. 
• By default, both searches below are enabled. If you wish to make your search more specific, you can click the drop down arrow to the left of the search field to specify searching by Projects or Addresses specifically. 
• How to Search by Project: Click on the magnifying glass on any of the tabs to search for a project that falls within that category or search on the All Projects tab for any kind of project. 
• If the first result is not what you are looking for, click the Show more results link under the first result for other options. 
• Click on any of the other results to have the map zoom to that result. 

• Click on the magnifying glass and type in a street address (ex. 132 E Broughton St).
• To be most specific, include street number, (direction if applicable), street name, and street suffix. 
• Click on the magnifying glass and type in an intersection. Intersections are recognized when an ampersand ex. &) is used between street names. Type in street name & street name (ex. Bull St & Bay St). 
• To be most specific, include (direction if applicable), street name, and street suffix. o If the first result is not what you are looking for, click the Show more results link under the first result for other options. 
• Click on any of the other results to have the map zoom to that result.

Click on a project point on the map. A pop-up with project specific information will come up. Scroll on the right to see project name, picture, description, status, category, number, and council district.

• To get more detailed information about a project, click on the project link at the bottom of the pop-up. ***Enable pop-ups for this site if you are unable to see the detailed project page.*** 
• To close out of the pop-up either click the X on the top right, or click anywhere else on the map

Yes, visit www.savannahga.gov/utilitypay to pay your bill online. You must have your account number and barcode.

YES, you are responsible for paying your balance. You must pay any past due balances on old or existing accounts prior to re-establishing services at the same address or starting service at a new location. Failure to pay may result in collections action.

Low income seniors and disabled residents should review the Help to Our Community web page for information on that discount program.

Additionally, throughout the area there are agencies that may provide services to members of the community experiencing hardships. With the help of counseling and advocacy programs, citizens are able to connect with the assistance that is needed. Due to limited funding and eligibility requirements, program acceptance is not guaranteed. Please refer to our listing of Local Resources for Utility Bill Assistance.

Your bill is due 20 days after it is billed.

To learn more about your bill's life cycle and how to avoid delinquency, please visit our Avoid Late Fees, Penalties, & Service Shut-Off page.

Your account is a part of a billing cycle. We bill approximately 10,000 customers per month. Each billing is processed when all of the meters in your cycle are completely read. Holidays, weekends and unforeseen acts that impact the ability to read meters, such as inclement weather, make it impossible to read your meter on the same exact day. This means your bill will not be issued on the same day every other month.

Bills are issued bi-monthly. If you are not receiving bills, please contact Customer Service at 912-651-6460 to verify your mailing address and balance.

The barcode is located on the return stub of your bill, directly below your account number. The bar code will remain the same as long you have an account at the same address. A new barcode is issued when you transfer service to a new address.

For trash pickup schedules, please visit the Sanitation website or contact the Sanitation Department at 912-651-6579.

Yes, the Help to Our Community (H2OC) program provides a discount to low income seniors and disabled residents. Learn more on our webpage for H2OC.

All turn on services are the next business day, excluding holidays and weekends. Please ensure that all faucets in the home are turned to the “off position.” If a meter is being reinstalled, this may take up to two (2) business days.

Meters are read bi-monthly by meter readers throughout the year.

The majority of our meters read like an odometer. Please refer to our video on How to Read Your Water Bill and Meter.

We attempt to read every meter bi-monthly. In the event usage is estimated, you will be notified with a message on the bill stating “UNABLE TO READER METER, ESTIMATED BASED ON PRIOR USAGE.”  The most common reason a meter will not be read is dog in yard, car over meter, locked gate, box full of water, overgrown brush or snake or wasp nest in box.  If you receive an estimated bill please contact Customer Service at 912-651-6460 who will arrange for an actual meter reading. A revised Adjusted Bill will be issued once an actual meter reading is obtained.

The City of Savannah bills bi-monthly so it’s best to compare your usage to the same period from the prior year, if available. Some habits change depending on the season. Between the dates listed on your last bill, did you do any of the following:

• Have more guests in your home?
• Landscape your yard (i.e. put down new sod or plant grass or shrubs)?
• Pressure wash your driveway or house?
• Have any plumbing repairs completed (even if minor)?

If you cannot determine unusual water usage in your household, you may have a leak.

Not necessarily. Most water meters are located in the low lying areas and retain water sometimes from rain or an irrigation system. Please contact Customer Service at 912-651-6460 to arrange for a meter inspection.

Most leaks are easy to detect and fix. All you do is check, twist, and replace:

Check for leaks. Look for dripping faucets, showerheads and sprinklers. Check for toilets with silent leaks by putting a few drops of food coloring into the tank, waiting 15 minutes, and seeing if color appears in the bowl before you flush.

Twist and tighten hose and pipe connections. To save water without a noticeable difference in flow in your bathroom, twist on a Water Sense-labeled faucet aerator.

Replace the fixture if necessary. Look for Water Sense-labeled models, which are independently certified to use 20 percent less water and perform as well as or better than standard models.

Yes, in the event a customer receives an abnormally high billing as a result of a loss caused by leak, a Courtesy Leak Adjustment may be granted on up to two bills impacted after a repair is made. Please refer to our Water and/or Sewer Leak Adjustment Form and Policy for more information.

No, unless a pool repair is made. Please refer to our Water and/or Sewer Leak Adjustment Form and Policy for more information.

In the event that you have been underbilled for utilities, such as receiving sanitation and/or water and sewer services from the City before establishing an active utilities account, please note that you are still responsible for paying those charges for services rendered. 

The City will issue you a “back-bill”, which represents charges not previously billed, for services that were delivered to you before the current billing cycle and prior to the establishment of your utilities account. 

The City is authorized per the Revenue Ordinance to issue a back-bill for up to “a period of 3 years prior to date of discovery and correction of the [billing] error.” (City of Savannah Revenue Ordinance, Article U. Utility Service Fees, Section 12. BILLING OF UNDERPAYMENT; REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT)

The shut-off period for delinquency begins 38 days after the bill date.

Yes, late penalties apply to any account with a past-due balance. Payment arrangements are designed to give you more time to pay a delinquent balance without being disconnected. Until the past-due balance is paid in full, your account will be subject to late penalties.

Please refer to our Payment Arrangement page for more information.

Reconnection of service is done the next business day after we receive payment.

Ad valorem taxes (which means “according to the value”) are levied on real and personal property each year. Real property is land and any improvements such as buildings/houses or parking lots. Personal property is inventory and fixtures used in conducting business, boats, and machinery, etc. The basis for ad valorem taxation is the fair market value of the property as determined by the Chatham County Tax Assessor’s Office. Georgia law says only 40% of that value is taxable which is referred to as the assessed value.

Real Property is just another way of describing real estate; it is land and any improvements such as buildings/houses or parking lots. If you’re paying property taxes on a house, you’re paying Real Property taxes. Personal Property is inventory and fixtures used in conducting business, boats, and machinery, etc.

Property tax revenues are used by the City of Savannah for General Fund maintenance and operations. Property taxes fund services such as our police and fire departments; the development and maintenance of our parks, our streets and sidewalks; and the departments that manage planning and zoning, as well as neighborhood, housing, and economic development initiatives.

To learn more about the allocation of funds to programs and services offered by the City, please visit the Office of Management and Budget to view the latest City budget online.

Real Property taxes are billed annually in two installments. The first installment bills in April and is typically due mid-June.* The first installment bill is based on half of the prior year’s tax amount. For example, if a parcel was billed at $500 for 2019 taxes, the 2020 first installment bill is half of that amount, $250. The second installment bills in September and is typically due mid-November.* This bill reflects changes for the current year to the property value, exemptions, and the millage rate.

*Please note all due dates are set at the time bills are printed and may be subject to change.

No. Property tax payments must be received and posted to the account on or before the due date to be considered on time and avoid penalty or interest charges.

Yes. In accordance with O.C.G.A. 48-2-40-44, delinquent taxes are charged interest at an annual rate equal to the bank prime loan rate as posted by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System or any publication that may supersede it, plus 3 percent, to accrue monthly. Once taxes are 120 days late, a 5% penalty is added to all bills, except for Homestead property less than $500.00. The penalty will continue to accrue at 5% each additional 120 days up to a maximum of 20% of the principle amount due.

The basis for ad valorem taxation is the fair market value of the property as determined by the Tax Assessor’s Office.

Formula

(Property Value x Assessment Rate) - Exemptions) x Property Tax Millage Rate = Tax Bill

Example

Here is an example calculation for a home with a market value of $100,000 in the City of Savannah:

• The property value is the full market value appraised by the Assessors. All property in Georgia is taxed at an assessment rate of 40% of its full market value.
  • $100,000 x 40% = $40,000
• Exemptions, such as a homestead exemption, reduce the taxable value of your property. Let's say this homeowner qualifies for an exemption of $2,000.
  • $40,000 - $2,000 = $38,000
• The taxable value is then multiplied by the millage rate. 1 mill = $1 tax per $1,000 taxable value. The City of Savannah’s 2022 millage rate was set at 12.20 by City Council, which means property owners pay $12.20 per $1,000 of taxable value.
  • $38,000 x (12.20/1,000) = $463.60 final City tax bill amount* Or $38,000 x .01220=$463.60*

*Please note: locally, the School Board and Chatham County set and assess property taxes separately and in addition to the tax rate set and collected by the City of Savannah. Chatham county residents who reside within Savannah’s city limits are required to pay both County and City property taxes per Georgia law. Property owners in the County and City pay School Board taxes. School Board taxes are collected by the Chatham County Tax Commissioner.

No. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve you of the responsibility to make payment by the due date. If you did not receive a tax bill, a copy of your bill is available online (www.savannahga.gov/propertytax). You may also contact the City of Savannah Revenue Department Property Tax Unit by phone at (912) 651-6455 or visit our office location (305 Fahm Street, Savannah, GA 31401) to obtain a copy of your bill Monday-Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The City does accept partial payments of taxes up to the second installment due date; however, to avoid interest or penalty, taxes must be paid in full on or before the second installment due date.

The City does not make payment arrangements for current or delinquent taxes.

• In-person/Overnight Mail: City of Savannah Revenue Department, 305 Fahm Street, Savannah, GA 31401. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:15 am to 5:00 pm.
• Online: www.savannahga.gov/propertytax
• Regular Mail: City of Savannah Revenue Department, Attn: Property Tax Unit, P.O. Box 1228, Savannah, GA 31402

Note: When paying your City property taxes online for your home or other real estate, please select "Real Property" from the text links, as seen below:

No, we do not send individual bills to mortgage companies; however, all major mortgage companies and third party tax processors are provided a copy of the complete billing file with each installment, and a delinquent file after the second installment due date passes.

The Chatham County Board of Assessor’s (BOA) appraisal staff determines and makes recommendations to the BOA. The Board of Assessors approves the values. The BOA website, which has more information about their process, can be found at this link.

Board of Assessors
222 W Oglethorpe Ave
Suite #113
Savannah, Georgia 31401

Phone: (912) 652-7271

Website: https://boa.chathamcountyga.gov

A millage rate is the tax rate used to calculate local property taxes. The millage rate represents the amount per every $1,000 of a property’s assessed value. Assigned millage rates are multiplied by the total taxable value of the property in order to arrive at the property taxes.

Millage gets its name from the Latin word "millesimum," or "mill" for short, which means "thousandth part" (1/1000). The term millage rate is also referred to as the mill rate or the effective property tax rate.

The current millage rate can be found on our website at www.savannahga.gov/millagerates.

The City of Savannah millage rate is approved by Savannah City Council.

Property owners may apply for exemptions through the Chatham County Assessor’s Office. Exemptions are a form of tax relief that can reduce the net taxable value of your property.

For more information on applying for exemptions. including the Homestead Exemption (for homeowners who occupy the property as their primary residence) and other special exemptions based on age, income, disability, or other criteria available to property owners, please contact the Chatham County Assessor’s Office at (912) 652-7271. Or visit their website at this link.

Specific questions regarding your assessment should be directed to the Chatham County Assessor’s Office at 912-652-7271. They can provide you with the requirements and deadlines for appealing your value.

Yes. If a property’s value is under appeal, it will be billed at the prior year’s value or 85% of the current value, whichever is less. The tax amount billed is due at the time of the second installment billing due date, regardless of whether the appeal has been resolved. Once the appeal is resolved, a new bill is generated or a refund will be issued accordingly.

A property tax Fi.Fa. is a lien placed against a piece of property for failure to pay taxes when due. Literally, "fieri facias," means "cause it to be done." This is a judicial writ directing the sheriff to satisfy a judgment (such as unpaid delinquent taxes on real or personal property) from the debtor's property. Because a Fi.Fa. indicates a late payment or non-payment of a bill, it may affect the credit standing of the property owner(s). It may also result in the owner(s) loss of the property through tax sale. Therefore, prompt payment of property tax bills, like any other bill, should be taken seriously.

The City of Savannah holds approximately 6 tax sales each year. Properties scheduled for tax sale are advertised in the public notice section of the Savannah Morning Newspaper beginning four weeks prior to the sale. The listing is also posted on the City of Savannah website at this link. 

Properties sold at tax sale may be redeemed by the original owner within a year and one day of the tax sale by contacting the winning bidder and paying the purchaser the amount of the winning bid plus 20%.

3-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number that connects customers with highly trained Customer Service Representatives ready to help you with non-emergency City of Savannah government matters.

City of Savannah residents, businesses or tourists requesting non-emergency information or services pertaining to the City of Savannah government may call.

The 311 Action Center is open Monday- Friday from 8a.m.- 5p.m. urgent matters may also be reported after normal business hours.

The City of Savannah’s 311 Action Center is part of an ongoing effort to make access to City government easier and more responsive to the needs of residents, businesses and visitors. 3-1-1 provides a single point of contact for the City of Savannah’s government services.

Yes. If for some reason you cannot get through on your cell phone, you may call 912-651-6565.

You may remain anonymous when submitting your service request to the 311 Action Center. However, the City departments responsible for delivering the service(s) you are requesting may wish to contact you for follow up or to request clarification, so you may wish to leave your name and phone number. Your contact information will only be shared with the City department working on your request.

You can track your service request on the City of Savannah’s online 311 portal or via the SAV311 mobile app. You will need to know the service request number. We encourage users to create an account as there are many benefits associated to it, such as eliminating the need to re-enter your contact information each time you submit a request and you can easily track the status and view the history of your requests.

_{The SAV311 mobile app is free. Please note that in the absence of a Wi-Fi connection, the application uses your cellular network connection to submit requests. Please check with your carrier to see if you will be charged for usage.} 

We would love to hear from you! Please contact us:

· Email 311ActionCenter@savannahga.gov

· Call 311 (if outside city limits call 912-651-6565) · Or see the Savannahga.gov for general information

Please direct matters of public safety to police or 911. The 311 app and mobile web service are designed solely to assist in routine citizen requests.

Complete After school,  Afterwork, or online at www.savannahga.gov/therapeuticsapplication, or you may request to receive your application via email or complete it in person at John S. Delaware Center at 1815 Lincoln St. (35^th and Lincoln).

Youth must be in the 3rd grade or 9years old to participate in the after-school program. Adults must be 22 years old or older to participate in the Afterwork program.

Yes, you much reapply each quarter for the new session. No one is guaranteed a spot because they were in the program before. Applications must be submitted on or before the deadline. Applications must be filled out clearly and completely, or you will be placed on the waiting list.

We provide activities to go with the season.

• Athletic activities include - bowling, softball with softball skills, basketball with basketball skills, bocce, volleyball, swimming, tennis, and kickball. 
• Social and cultural activities include - activities with Telfair Museum and Cultural Resources, painting, arts & crafts, bingo, trivia, summer camp, and dance. 
• We hold a Spring Fling Fun Field Day as well as a Holiday Dinner & Dance. 
• Participants can participate in the Special Olympics. 
• We work on developing social and cognitive skills.
• Depending on the season, we use Paulsen & Minick Softball complex, Chatham County Aquatic Center, AMF (Victory) Bowling Lanes, Lake Mayer, the Savannah Civic Center, and other parks and playgrounds. 

A designated location will be assigned on the confirmation letter once your child has been accepted into the program. Participants must be picked up on time or dropped from the program after two late pick-ups.

We do not require medical documentation to verify a challenging condition. However, Special Olympics requires a physical (one a year) and a registration form (one time) for the Special Olympics participation.  

Youth programming is from 3 pm – 6 pm. Adult afterwork programming is from 3:30 pm – 6 pm. However, program times and locations are subject to change each quarter/session. 

Yes, both youth and adults have the opportunity to participate in the Special Olympics State competition three (3) times a year. We choose Special Olympics athletes from our classes who meet specific criteria. 

Youth participants enrolled in school (within Savannah city limits) may be transported from school to the program site by a city vehicle. Parents or guardians must contact the school to authorize the release of their child to us. Transportation is limited; therefore, the minimum pick-up is two students per school. Therapeutic Staff can pick up adult participants from the EmployAbility Center; a large percentage of the participants work there and participate in the program. However, we will explore more options at other worksites if enough participants are picked up within the city limits. Parents/Guardians/caregivers may also transport participants to and from our programs. 

The Fire Marshal is located at 10 West 33rd St. If you wish to stop by and speak with our Fire Marshal staff, please call first or make an appointment (912-644-5960)

The best way to combat fires is to prevent them before they start. Routine building inspections are one of the most effective ways to do that. According to the Georgia State Code the Fire Marshal’s Office may inspect all structures and premises for the purpose of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, interfere with firefighting operations, or endanger life. We achieve our goal by:

• Identifying and correcting fire code violations
• Educating business and property owners about fire and life safety
• Reducing fire loss
• Providing less demand on public emergency services by reducing fire and life safety risks

You can schedule a construction fire inspection by visiting the Savannah Fire Marshal's Office website. Under tab Inspection / Permits find (Request an Inspection) click the form, fill out completely and submit.  If you have questions about the form please contact our office at 912-644-5960.

You can schedule a fire inspection by visiting the Savannah Fire Marshal's Office website. Under tab Request a Business Inspection find (Request an Inspection) click the form, fill out completely and submit.  If you have questions about the form please contact our office at 912-644-5960.

A fire inspector may stop by your business as part of our regular inspection routine or because you are a new business in the City of Savannah. If it is an inconvenient time for an inspection, the inspector will schedule a more convenient inspection time.

The Savannah Fire Marshal's Office does not currently charge an inspection fee for routine OCGA Title 25 fire inspections. Special Inspections will require a $75.00 fee for the inspection.

A fire inspector will issue you an Inspection Report/Violation Notice detailing all the conditions that violate the fire code and could cause a fire and endanger life and/or property. These deficiencies must be corrected immediately. A re-inspection to verify the abatement of the deficiencies noted will be coordinated with the business owner and the inspector. Most re-inspections are conducted 30 days after the initial inspection but a shorter follow-up period may be scheduled. Failure to correct the deficiencies prior to the first re-inspection date will result in the issuance of a final correction notice and another date will be identified to verify compliance.  Deficiencies not corrected on the third re-inspection may result in a legal action. 

On our page click (Inspections / Permits). Under permit application you will see "Click Here Savannah Fire Marshal Office Permit Application Form". Fill out completely and submit.

Property and business owners sometimes have safety concerns about their own operation or one that they have observed elsewhere. Please give us a call at 912-644-5960 for assistance.

A third party contractor should be contacted that specializes in the type of system that you need inspected or serviced. These third party contractors are required to submit copies of these inspection, testing and maintenance reports to the Fire Marshal’s Office where staff review the reports for compliance. There is no charge for the submission and review of the inspection, testing and maintenance reports at this time.

The Knox Box Entry System Program is an effort by the Savannah Fire Department and Fire Marshal's Office to provide property owners, within our city, a secure system that provides rapid, non-destructive, emergency access to residential and commercial buildings.  The cost of the box and installation is the responsibility of the building owner. Please visit Knoxbox.com to get started.

Submit a non-compliant fire protection system by email; acollins@savannahga.gov or by phone 912-644-5960.

Access/Egress control Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 101, NFPA 70, and NFPA 72, as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3.

Required documents listed below for new installs:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Installation drawings (to include wire diagrams and correct symbols)
• Product submittal

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered. 
• Product submittal

Access/Egress control system demo:

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered.

Two-way Area of Refuge Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 101 and NFPA 72, as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3.

Required documents listed below for new installs:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Scaled installation drawings (to include correct NFPA 170 symbols, complete riser diagram, correct circuit labels)
• Battery calculations
• Product submittal package (to include signage package)

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered. 
• Product submittal

Two-way Area of Refuge system demo:

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered.

Click to Enter Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 70, and City of Savannah ordinances.

Required documents listed below:

•             Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.

•             Detailed installation drawings

•             Secondary power

•             Product submittal package.

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

•             Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.

•             Detailed plan to show what is being removed/replaced or altered. 

•             Product submittal

Click to enter Demo:

Required documents listed below:

•             Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.

•             Plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered.

Emergency Radio Systems (BDA) plans shall be per IFC, NFPA 1221, NFPA 70, and NFPA 72, as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3.

Required documents listed below for new installs:

• Submit your current low voltage license, issued by the state of GA.
• Submit your current FCC, GROL license, Issued by the Federal Government.
• Stamped electrical Installation drawings (to include wire diagrams and correct symbols)
• Product submittal

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Submit you current FCC license, Issued by the Federal Government.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered. 
• Product submittal

Emergency Radio System (BDA) Demo:

Required documents listed below:

•             Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.

•             Submit you current FCC license, Issued by the Federal Government.

•             Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered.

Fire Alarm Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 72, as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3.

Required documents listed below for new installs:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Scaled installation drawings (to include correct NFPA 170 fire alarm symbols, complete riser diagram, complete operation matrix, correct notification appliance circuit labels)
• Battery calculations (to include notification appliance circuit layout by circuit)
• Product submittal package.

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being affected.
• Battery Calculations if applicable
• Product submittal

Fire alarm system demo:

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current sprinkler license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered. 

Fire Sprinkler Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 13, 13D, or 13R as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3. 

Required documents listed below for new installs:

• Submit your current sprinkler license issued by the state of GA.
• Flow test for hydraulically calculated systems (less than 6 months)
• Approved site utility for new installed systems.
• Scaled installation drawings (to include piping and reflected ceiling)
• Necessary hydraulic calculations
• Product submittal package

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Scaled installation drawings (to include piping and reflected ceiling)
• Product submittals. 

Fire sprinkler system demo:

Required documents in the order listed below:

• Submit your current sprinkler license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being demolished and/or replaced.

All installations of fire suppression systems shall, where applicable, be installed in compliance with one of the following: NFPA 17 2017 edition or 17A 2013 edition and U.L. 300, or NFPA 12, or NFPA 12A, or NFPA 13, or NFPA 2001 as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3.

Required documents listed below for new install:

• Submit your current fire suppression license issued by the state of GA.
• Scaled drawings indicating appliances and hoods or rooms and equipment to be protected
• Product submittal package

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current fire suppression license issued by the state of GA.
• Plans to show what part of the system are being affected.
• Product submittal

Suppression system demo:

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current fire suppression license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being demolished and replaced.

Gas Detection Systems and plans shall be per NFPA 72, and NFPA 720 as amended by the State of Georgia with applicable 120-3-3

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Scaled installation drawings (to include correct NFPA 170 symbols, complete riser diagram, complete operation matrix, correct notification appliance circuit labels)
• Secondary power calculations (where required by NFPA 720)
• Product submittal package.

Required documents listed below for alterations/repairs/modifications of existing systems:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being removed/replaced or altered. 
• Product submittal

Gas Detection System demo:

Required documents listed below:

• Submit your current low voltage license issued by the state of GA.
• Floor plan to show what area of the system are being demolished and replaced.

AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure. With AMI, every City of Savannah Water System customer (both inside and outside the City limits) will be able to accurately measure water usage in their home or business.  This will be accomplished by the AMI unit automatically sending a secure, digital message to a data collection Cell Tower using a cellular signal—much like a cell phone does now.  The Cell Tower then transmits all meter reads to the City of Savannah through a specialized software, where the information is processed within the City’s utility billing system.

Installing AMI smart meters will enhance our customer service capabilities by maximizing the potential for consistent, accurate meter reads, thereby enabling our customers to have a high degree of confidence in the utility bills they receive. We are excited to implement AMI because it will enable us to improve customer service through the delivery of more accurate bills to all our customers.  It will also reduce the need for City staff to come onto your property for manual meter readings.

AMI technology ensures that customers receive a more accurate bill for their water usage – no more and no less.  It is important to understand that some older water meters run slower and under-register water use as they age.  When we change out your older water meter with a new AMI smart meter, the bills generated by the new meter may be higher simply because the new meter is recording usage more accurately than the older model we replaced.

The City of Savannah has always strongly advocated for water conservation by its customers as we seek to protect our water resources in the area.  Visit www.savannahga.gov/water for more information and resources to help you conserve water.

There is no cost to customers for the AMI upgrade.

AMI improves accuracy by eliminating the potential for human error in manual meter reading. It will also help by immediately identifying any irregularities in water usage, such as leaks.

In the future, customers will have access to the AMI web portal which allows easy access to information about your water consumption. This will include the ability to compare current usage to previous periods and set email and text alerts to achieve conservation goals.   The schedule for the Smart Meter Customer Portal rollout is still being developed and the City will notify customers once it’s available for use.  

Water utilities all over the world are utilizing AMI technology, primarily because it provides accurate water usage information. The reading at the meter is converted into a digital format using technology that has proven to be highly reliable and secure. AMI improves accuracy mostly because it eliminates the potential for human error in manual meter reading and data processing. Similar systems are already in use in nearby communities including Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority in South Carolina.

The water meter unit at your location (i.e. the endpoint) that sends your meter reading has a unique identifier that is transmitted along with the meter read and usage data. This unique identifier is compared electronically to your account record to ensure that the meter reading matches the meter assigned to your account.

Your account information is secure. Data transmitted through the system is protected and proprietary communication protocols are used.

No. The data transfer is through a standard cellular signal, so the power of the radio frequency does not pose any health risk different than a cell phone.  The technology selected by the City of Savannah sends a signal that can be compared to a cellular text message.  The products that make up the AMI system are stringently evaluated for safety and meet all standards established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). 

No. The technology operates as a very low-powered cellular type signal that is regulated by the (FCC) against interference.  As such, it is unlikely that it will interfere with the operation of other electronic devices.

No. You will continue to enjoy the same high-quality water you have come to expect from the City of Savannah Water System.

Digital photographs will be taken of the last meter reading on each existing meter that we replace, should any questions arise. The installer (Utility Partners of America or UPA) will provide these photographs to the City of Savannah so that our utility billing staff will have this information available to answer any questions that might arise.

The City of Savannah staff and the meter installer (UPA) will locate the meter box containing your water meter and mark it with blue paint and a pin flag. For residential customers, replacing the water meter will require installers to briefly turn off the water service to your residence. This allows installers to remove the old meter and install a new one. Water service may be interrupted for commercial customers as well. When the new meter is installed, the installer will test the new AMI water meter to ensure that it is operating properly.

The installer will attempt to try and turn on an outdoor water spigot at each location following AMI meter installation to flush the system and re-establish pressure.  For any customer that has experienced a water service interruption in the past, they know that these type issues can occur on water service reconnection, but they should resolve quickly by flushing the system outside or inside for a short period of time.  

Installations will be completed systematically via a city-wide plan being developed by the installation team.  The City will notify customers prior to the field work associated with their meter replacement.  

For customers with a standard water meter, a post card will be mailed approximately two weeks before the planned installation at your location and the installer (UPA) will place a door hanger at your location after the installation is complete.  The UPA doorhanger will include information for the customer that they can utilize in the event of any questions or concerns following the installation exercise.  

In most instances, installation should take less than thirty (30) minutes. Some installations may take longer but we do not expect any major water service interruptions in connection with this project.

The installer (UPA) will be able to schedule a specific time with any customer if the situation necessitates such an approach.   The customer service number for UPA is 800-417-5605 if you need to contact them about scheduling your installation.  

Customers can contact the City about the AMI Smart Water Meter Project by using the 311 service, or emailing smartmeter@savannahga.gov or by calling 912.651.6585.

Customers can contact the City Utility Billing Customer Service staff by visiting www.savannahga.gov/customercontact or by calling 912-651-6460.

The #glassonly recycling drop location program is free to residents of the City of Savannah.

Yes. Broken bottles, jars and jugs are accepted at the #glassonly recycling drop sites. Please ensure they are clean and dry before putting them in the recycling bin. 

Yes. If you can remember to take your lids off before recycling your glass, that is preferable. However, if you happen to forget to remove those lids before you drop your glass in the bin, no worries. We have powerful magnets that will separate the metal lids from the glass during our processing.

This is one of the most common recycling mistakes. All recyclables need to be both clean and dry ensuring liquid and food residue is removed as the residue contaminates the material preventing recycling. Only putting clean and dry glass in recycling bin also keeps the roll-off container cleaner and less stinky making the recycling experience more enjoyable for other residents. 

No. You do not need to use soap to clean your recyclables. Simply rinsing them, ensuring all residue is removed, and drying them is sufficient. 

When glass is collected in #glassonly recycling containers, it results in a cleaner glass stream resulting in a higher recovery rate of the glass material. U.S. manufacturers need this clean material to reduce raw material demands. 

Single-stream recycling, which commingles all recyclables (paper, cardboard, metals, plastics, and glass) in one bin, has been the primary means of collecting recyclables in the U.S. since the early 1990’s. When glass is collected in single-stream recycling collection programs, it breaks and embeds into other materials, creating contamination and decreasing material value. This results in large amounts of collected material going to U.S. landfills. 

Contamination occurs when materials are not properly cleaned, such as when food residue remains on a container, or when non-acceptable items are tossed into the recycling bin. 

Yes. Date TBD. Stay tuned to the City of Savannah and The Upcycling Company’s websites and social for program announcements.  

Please visit https://recycleglasshere.com/recycle-glass/ and go to the Request Drop Location form. Complete and submit your request and we will consider your request as we expand the #glassonly recycling drop location program.

Recycled regionally for reuse in the glass industry.

According to the EPA, the current glass recycling rate is around 31% annually.

• #glassonly recycling programs have high recovery rates and save space in our local landfills extending the life of the landfill. 
• #glassonly recycling programs reduce the contamination rate in the commingles stream, increasing the recovery rate of the plastic and cardboard/paper. 
• #glassonly recycling programs reduce wear and tear on city owned equipment as the glass stream is collected by The Upcycling Company
• #glassonly recycling programs increase the quality of cullet that can be produced for U.S. manufacturers ensuring an outlet for this material. Collecting recyclable is pointless if there is no buyer. 
• #glassonly recycling programs ensure residents’ glass bottles and jars will be made into new glass products. Glass collected in single-stream programs often still ends up in our landfills after being collected as a recyclable. 

• #glassonly recycling programs decrease contamination in the glass stream starting at collection, and increase the quality of cullet that can be produced for U.S. manufacturers. 
• The more clean quality cullet U.S. manufacturers use, the less energy they use in their process, saving energy. 
• All of this reduces the need for raw material in the manufacturing process.
• Most U.S. glass manufacturers are working towards sustainability goals and you recycling your glass, is helping them reach their goals, to the benefit of all of us. 

In 1990, the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act (DIFA) was enacted into law, and it significantly affected the way local governments in Georgia pay for public services and facilities. Impact fees are one-time fees charged to land developers to help defray the costs of expanding capital facilities to serve new growth. DIFA enables local governments to charge new development for a proportionate share of infrastructure capacity it requires. However, the Act places restrictions on the categories of capital facilities for which new development can be charged. It also establishes rules under which impact fees must be calculated, collected, expended, accounted for, and administered.

In January 2022, the City Council appointed seven members to serve on the Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee to assist and advise City Council on the adoption of a development impact fee ordinance. Since the committee was advisory, no action of the committee was considered a necessary prerequisite for municipal or county action in regard to adoption of an ordinance.  Members of the committee included Jim Collins, Monica Mastrianni, Tomeca McPherson, Melissa Phillips, Pat Shay, Dwayne Stephens, and Bryan Wardlaw.  

The City completed a Methodology Report which contains growth forecasts and identifies capital projects needed to meet the City’s Level of Service standards.  It also presents calculations related to establishing the maximum impact fees that could be charged for the public facility categories which includes:

• Parks and recreation to include a trail system;
• Fire protection;
• Law enforcement; and 
• Road improvements

The information provided in the Methodology Report comprises the Capital Improvements Element (CIE).  Prior to its adoption as part of the Chatham-Savannah Comprehensive Plan (2040 Plan), the document was reviewed by the Coastal Regional Commission (CRC) and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to ensure consistency with the Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements and to allow for the submission of comments.  In January 2023, DCA notified the City that the revised CIE adequately addressed the State’s requirements. 

On February 23, 2023, the City Council adopted the CIE which amended the 2040 Plan, Development Impact Fee Ordinance, and affordable housing exemptions.  The impact fee program goes into effect on July 1, 2023. 

Savannah City Council adopted a three-year phased implementation of the impact fee program based on the following schedule:

• Year 1:  50% of maximum impact fee ($1,965 for a single family home)
• Year 2:  75% of maximum impact fee ($2,948 for a single family home)
• Year 3:  100% of maximum impact fee ($3,931 for a single family home)

Savannah City Council adopted an exemption for the development of affordable housing. If funding is available, affordable housing is eligible for a 25% reduction in the payment of impact fees based on the following standards:

• Housing developed using Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) and similarly financed housing that has long term affordability requirements imposed by the federal, state, or local governments;
• Housing developed using local, state or federal funds that have a deed restricted affordability period of at least 15 years;
• The development of single family or two-family dwellings in federally designated Opportunity Zones;
• Any of the three exemptions listed above, except for those properties that shall be owner occupied for a period of five years, must comply with these additional requirements:
  1. Rents as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that are at or below Fair Market Rents (FMRs) for a period of 15 years with deed restrictions as approved by the City Manager; or
  2. Sale price of homes that are at or below 80% of Federal Housing Administration (FHA) limits for a period of 15 years with deed restrictions as approved by the City Manager.

March 1, 2025

Via website, mail, or pick-up in person

Applications will be available online below or obtained at 305 Fahm St. on March 1-13, 2025.

Hawkers' permits are only good for March 17, 2025. No additional days are permitted for Hawkers.

Fees for a Hawker range from $45.00 to $120.00

Cash, Money Order, Credit Card only

The City of Savannah does not issue fixed locations. The business owner would be required to obtain an approved location for vending.

 The following streets, sidewalks, and public ways are oft-limits to peddlers, festival hawkers, or street vendors; The River Street "controlled" festival zone; all of the area north of the south curb line of Bay Street; all City Parks and Squares; all of the Citv Market areas bordered by Brvan Street on the north, Congress Street on the south, Barnard Street on the east, and Montgomery Street on the west; and the traffic lanes along the designated parade route when and where the parade is in progress.

7 am-8 pm

All applications must be received by the Revenue Department at 305 Fahm Street by 12 noon on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. All hawkers' permits will be available for pick-up at the Savannah Civic Center, 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave., between the hours of 6 am and 8 am on March 17, 2025.

Yes, with proof of IRS 501(c}(3).

No, each person with merchandise must have a hawker's permit and ID.

No duplicate permit will be issued.

You can pick up your merchandise on Sunday, March 16, 2024, from Savannah Civic Center between 9 am and 12 noon.

Yes, providing proof of your original ID.

Stormwater runoff is rainfall that flows off roofs, driveways, parking lots, streets, and other compacted surfaces during rainstorms. Rather than being absorbed into the ground, the water flows into ditches, culverts, catch basins and storm sewers, which discharge into local canals, creeks, and rivers. In the City of Savannah, stormwater runoff can cause flooding, carry pollution to waterways, erode soil and stream banks, and impact aquatic habitats. 

Stormwater problems may include street or structural flooding, clogged or failing underground pipes and culverts, stream bank erosion, and pollution affecting our local waterways.  Over the past several years the City has experienced many severe flooding events that have made roadways impassable and have resulted in varying levels of flooding which caused property damage. 

Unlike treated wastewater from an industry or a wastewater treatment plant, stormwater pollution is created by stormwater runoff running over the land and picking up pollutants and discharging them through the drainage system to local water bodies. Examples of common stormwater runoff pollutant sources include fertilizers, pesticides, pet waste, sediments, oils, salts, trace metals, and litter. These discharges and their associated pollutants can originate from yards, roofs, construction sites, parking lots, and streets. 

The City of Savannah’s Water Resources Service Center is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the City’s public drainage system, which includes 7 pump stations, 416 miles of pipes, 147 miles of ditches, 31 tide gates, and 21,043 of catch basins and manholes. The City must undertake various maintenance activities including the cleaning of the drainage system; replacement of aging culverts and drainage structures; operation of pump stations during rain events, and construction of new culvert systems to improve stormwater drainage and reduce flooding. 

Stormwater services are currently funded through a combination of sources, which include primarily ad-valorem taxes (property tax) and Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) from the City’s General Fund.  The City also receives special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) for the completion of stormwater capital projects as well as project-specific grant funds.  This combination of funding sources is currently insufficient to fully meet the service expectations of our citizens and businesses and adequately fund the operational and capital project needs of the City’s stormwater system.

A Stormwater Utility is an operational and funding mechanism established to manage and maintain stormwater infrastructure, reduce flooding, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. It operates similarly to water and wastewater utilities, with users paying fees based on their contribution to stormwater runoff and the corresponding stormwater management services that they receive from the City.  One key aspect of a Stormwater Utility is that fees can only be used for stormwater management related expenses.

The resources needed to provide adequate funding for stormwater management service delivery within the City is increasing.  A Stormwater Utility and user fee would provide the City with a way to equitability assign and recover the cost of providing stormwater services to customers through a dedicated funding source that is based on the customer’s contribution of runoff to the City stormwater system and the corresponding services received.    

The Stormwater Utility user fee is a charge to customers based on the amount of impervious surface (e.g., roofs, driveways, parking lots) on their property, as these surfaces are directly related to the quantity of stormwater runoff that the property generates, and the stormwater services provided to that property by the City. 

By establishing a dedicated funding source through Stormwater Utility fees, the City can ensure that the revenue generated from the fee for managing and maintaining this important system is sufficient and dedicated to this purpose.  A fee based on impervious surface area is the most equitable way to allocate stormwater management costs, because all developed properties that receive stormwater services pay the fee, regardless of tax-exempt status. This funding mechanism also ensures that all funding received is spent on stormwater-related services and capital construction. 

No, the Stormwater Utility fee revenue will be placed in a separate enterprise fund (similar to the City’s Water-Sewer Enterprise Fund) that, by ordinance, can only be spent on stormwater management related activities. This is one of the major advantages of this fee – it can only be used to address stormwater management issues.

The Stormwater Utility fee for each property would be based on the square footage of impervious surface on the given parcel, minus any credits provided as described later in this FAQ.   

Impervious surfaces are generally defined as any man-made surface that does not readily absorb rainfall or stormwater runoff, and which impedes the natural flow of water into the soil. As such, some examples of impervious surfaces include roadways, building roofs, parking lots, compacted gravel, basketball/ tennis courts, etc.  The City uses GIS mapping, aerial imagery, and parcel data to measure the amount of impervious surfaces in square feet.  If a parcel undergoes changes, such as adding a new driveway or building or parking spaces, the impervious area measurements will be updated accordingly.

A parcel’s taxable value does not correlate well to is stormwater runoff characteristics, so traditional property taxes are not the most equitable way to allocate the cost for stormwater services to customers.  For example, a large truck and container storage parking lot has a lot of impervious surface and generates a large quantity of stormwater runoff, but generally has a low taxable value.  The future Stormwater Utility fee system will ensure the customers pay based on the contribution of runoff generated by the parcel, and the demand the parcel places on the stormwater system and the services that they receive. 

The revenues from the Stormwater Utility fee will be used to reduce the occurrence and magnitude of street and property flooding, provide better planning for the future, increase the maintenance and repair of the existing stormwater system, reduce sedimentation and erosion, and reduce non-point source runoff pollution to protect our local canals, wetlands, rivers, and coastal marshlands. 

The City will immediately put the Stormwater Utility revenue to work ensuring that City crews will have adequate staffing and equipment to maintain the drainage infrastructure and implement capital improvement projects. Because there are numerous areas in the City that have experienced flooding problems, customers may not see improvements in their neighborhood immediately. But rest assured, the City will address the flooding issues in your neighborhood as soon as possible. 

Yes, because the Stormwater Utility fee is not based upon the frequency of rainfall received.  The Stormwater Utility fee will be charged regardless of rainfall frequency because stormwater services will be ongoing to address issues leading up to rainfall events to ensure the system is properly maintained ahead of the rainfall events. 

Yes, a customer will still have to pay the fee even if a detention pond or other private, onsite stormwater control facility exists.   However, customers with private, onsite controls that meet applicable eligibility criteria can secure a Stormwater Utility fee credit to reduce their total fee because stormwater detention ponds (and other stormwater control facilities) do reduce the contribution of stormwater runoff to the stormwater system from the property that has the private, onsite stormwater control.  It should be noted that private, onsite stormwater controls typically still discharge to the City stormwater system, and the City must still maintain the drainage infrastructure that receives this discharge.   

Credits reduce a customer’s stormwater user fee based on specific activities that the customer undertakes to reduce their impact on the City’s drainage system and stormwater management program.

The City is developing a Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Policy that will provide a partial fee credit to customers that own and maintain private, onsite stormwater structural controls (i.e. detention ponds) that mitigate the stormwater runoff impacts related to the property’s discharge to the drainage system.  The credit policy will also include “non-structural” measures that customers can implement or participate in to assist the City’s stormwater management program.  Examples of the Stormwater Utility fee credits that are being evaluated by the City as part of a future credit policy are summarized below.  

• Structural Controls: Low-Impact Development/Green Infrastructure (LID/GI) Practices, inclusive of detention/retention ponds, runoff infiltration measures, pervious pavement, etc.    
• Non-Structural Controls: Residential Rain Barrels, Watershed Stewardship (i.e. Adopt-A-Stream, Stream Cleanups, etc), and Stormwater Education Programs. 

Customers can appeal their fee amount by providing evidence, such as updated measurements or documentation of on-site stormwater controls. Details on the appeal process will be provided on the City’s website.

Yes, non-profits and tax-exempt parcels will be charged the fee because they contribute stormwater runoff to the drainage system and receive services from the City – similar to all other developed parcels.   

The Stormwater Utility fee is intended to provide recurring, sustainable funding for stormwater management service delivery. The Stormwater Utility fee will be reviewed periodically and adjusted as necessary, but the need for funding to support drainage system maintenance and improvements will be ongoing into the future.  

Stormwater fees were first implemented in Georgia by the City of Griffin in 1998.  In 2025, the State of Georgia has over 75 cities and counties operating a Stormwater Utility fee program. Several nearby cities and counties operate a Stormwater Utility fee program including Garden City, Richmond Hill, Brunswick, Augusta-Richmond County, Hinesville, Statesboro, and Macon-Bibb County to name a few.  Nationally, there are an estimated 2,100 cities and counties that have implemented stormwater fees. 

The City of Savannah will hold a series of open house meetings to answer questions and share information about the stormwater management program and future Stormwater Utility fee.  The plan is to hold meetings in each Aldermanic District to maximize convenience based on geographic location. Please look for media announcements regarding these meetings as well as updates on City social media so that you can attend whichever meeting is most convenient for your schedule.

Please contact the City of Savannah Stormwater Department if you have any questions regarding this FAQ or other stormwater related issues.

Stormwater Management | Savannah, GA - Official Website

MOUs work to clarify the relationship and interactions between two entities. The document typically highlights roles, missions, and boundaries of each organization. In many cases, MOUs will outline how the entities will interact, establish a framework for decision-making, and state both mutual goals and values of each entity. MOUs are not legally binding documents. They do not outline any transactional items such as financial or operational agreements due to the fact that they have no binding authority and are more focused on agreed upon values, processes, and approaches.

MOUs outline broad concepts and goals, while MOAs provide more detail such as responsibilities and actions. MOUs outline goals, values, and processes, while MOAs outline specific steps, actions or guidelines for completing a certain project or particular objective. MOUs are not legally binding, while MOAs establish common legal terms, and in some cases can be binding. 

In this case, this MOU highlights the goals of the Friends of Forsyth Conservancy and the City of Savannah. As stated on page 2 of MOUs, the purpose is to “assist in defining the relationship between the Parties in order to ensure that the goals of each are accomplished in a mutually supportive way.” The MOU serves as a framework for both parties on how decisions are made and how they agree to interact with each other. This MOU reinforces the importance of public engagement, City ownership, and common values of equitable access and preservation of Forsyth Park.

No. The MOU reinforces the City’s ownership of the park and final decision-making power in all matters related to this public property. As stated on (page 2, II, C.) of the MOU “The City reserves sole authority to make all final decisions regarding the Park…...”. 

Additionally, the MOU is only a framework document outlining values and decision-making processes and is not legally binding. The MOU does highlight the City’s requirement to “promoting equitable access to Forsyth Park, cognizant of geographic, socioeconomic, demographic, cultural, physical ability and population density realities” (Page 2). It additionally highlights the Friends of Forsyth Conversancy’s values in their bylaws which state “open, democratic decision-making; preservation of the Park’s historic integrity; enhancement of natural areas and environmental sustainability; and access to the Park for a variety of activities to be enjoyed by all.”     

 Public-private partnerships help provide better services and experiences for residents by aligning common missions and funding opportunities without solely and always relying on Savannah’s taxpayers. Additionally, the MOU reinforces the need for continual civic and public engagement, with a focus on diversity of users, equitable access, and transparency. It additionally clarifies that the City remains in complete control of all decisions regarding the park. The MOU recognizes the Friends of Forsyth to be a philanthropic agent with the goal of raising funds to preserve the historical integrity of Forsyth Park and enhance its features. 

The Friends of Forsyth’s purpose statement within this MOU and their 501(c)(3) federal tax status is the following “Organized for the purpose of engaging stakeholders and for formulating, prioritizing, and implementing a collective vision for Forsyth Park in partnership with the City of Savannah”.

This MOU clarifies the relationship between the Friends of Forsyth Conservancy and the City of Savannah, creating a transparent framework for how decisions are made. 

In 2022, a Forsyth Park Master Plan was completed by Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects and funded by Savannah’s Trustee’s Garden Club.

In 2015, the Trustee’s Garden Club initiated the legacy Forsyth Park Project with the following goals 

1. To create the first-ever comprehensive Master Plan for the park, 
2. Strive for a designation of the park as a National Historic Landmark and 
3. The creation of a non-profit organization to support the park through volunteerism, fundraising, and outreach.

Trustees’ Garden Club and the City of Savannah signed a Memorandum of Understanding in April 2019 specifying that the Club would fund the Master Plan in its entirety, oversee the plan’s development in collaboration with City staff, and ensure a robust community engagement process.

The Master Plan’s intention is to be a long-term vision and road map for the future of the park. Savannah City Council did not officially adopt the Master Plan, however the City uses the plan for professional guidance when exploring enhancements or preservation elements within the park, but is not bound in anyway by to contents.

No. The MOU outlines the City’s willingness to review the Master Plan when implementing new maintenance programs, preservation improvements, or park enhancements and “to the extent practicable”, use the maintenance standards, enhancement projects and design guidelines outlined within the plan. Additionally, the MOU outlines the Friends of Forsyth Conservancy’s willingness to coordinate with the City regarding funding goals and assistance, for programs or campaigns that preserve and enhance Forsyth Park in accordance with the Forsyth Park Master Plan and to advocate for the preservation of the historic integrity of the Park. The City reserves sole authority to make all final decisions regarding the Park or deny any funding for elements in which it does not approve.

The City of Savannah has several MOUs in place to help establish partnerships between nonprofits and the City that provide public benefits. Public-private partnerships help provide better services and experiences for residents by aligning common missions and funding opportunities without solely and always relying on taxpayers.

The City has a MOU with the Telfair Museum of Art including guidance for the development and implementation of a master plan for Telfair Square, funded by the Telfair Museum of Art.

Many communities across the county following this model including:

• Central Park, New York City
• Grant Park, Atlanta Georgia 
• Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and 
• Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, Austin Texas, along with many others 

The MOU outlines the City’s willingness to waive permitting fees for use of the park by Friends of Forsyth Park Conservancy for fundraising events when given 24 months’ notice.

This section helps to clarify the requirements of the City’s Open Record Laws and the that of 501 ©3 non-profit organizations. It is common in fundraising and philanthropic communities to remain anonymous in order to protect the donor from further solicitation and the protection personal privacy.

The city has posted a copy of the MOU on its website. You can access it HERE.

No. With the MOU, the city remains the owner of the park and retains final decision-making power in all matters related to this public property. As stated on (page 2, II, C.) of the MOU “The City reserves sole authority to make all final decisions regarding the Park”.

No. The MOU is not connected to any conversation about the future of the playground or space. Local Rotary Clubs have approached the City about future plans for the space. However, any changes will require community engagement and City Council’s approval before moving forward. The MOU is not connected to any current proposed projects in the park. 

MOU does not impact any uses or changes in Forsyth Park. The MOU works to clarify the relationship and interactions between two separate entities with similar goals.  

Forsyth Park is a critical community resource, used for active and passive recreation, the farmer’s market, and special events. Heavy use takes a toll on the Park and requires consistent maintenance and upgrades to infrastructure. 

Entering the MOU does not commit the City to executing the Forsyth Park Master Plan. The Plan provides guidance and direction, but it is not a binding document and does not obligate the city to implement specific changes. The City reserves sole final decision-making authority over the park and can deny any elements it does not approve.  

The city has posted a copy of the Forsyth Master Plan on its website accessible here.

The MOU waives permitting fees for events raising funds to benefit the park; however, the event must follow all applicable special event permitting rules and regulations and must be reviewed and approved in the same manner as any application to use the park. 

No. The MOU does not impact any existing programming. 

No. The MOU does not privatize any space or facility within Forsyth Park

Friends of Forsyth Conservancy is a private 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and adopts its own board members. While the City does have a representative on the board, the Conservancy has the sole authority over how its board is populated. The Friends of Forsyth Conservancy board also includes two members of local neighborhood leadership. 

The Friends of Forsyth Conservancy is a private 501(c) (3) non-profit organization. They must follow the federal reporting requirements of 501 (c) (3) non-profits. It is common in fundraising and philanthropic communities to remain anonymous to protect privacy of donors from further solicitation.

Please sign-up for email updates HERE.

While still operational, the fountain requires critical restoration to preserve its structural and historic integrity. This includes repairs to its cast-iron elements, masonry, water systems, and surrounding features.

The City of Savannah contracted Landmark Preservation, LLC to manage the project. Robinson Iron Works—nationally known for historic cast-iron restorations—will recast and restore the fountain’s components at their Alabama facility.

Beginning in mid-June 2025, the fountain was drained and prepared for removal. Crews have begun dismantling its decorative elements, with full removal scheduled to be completed in June. The restoration work will then continue offsite before the fountain is returned to Savannah for reassembly and final site work.

While an exact date has not yet been determined, the City anticipates the full restoration will be complete by early fall, pending any delays.

City Council approved the restoration during its May 22 meeting. The project is funded at an amount not to exceed $650,000.

To protect the work zone and minimize disruption, the special events calendar around the fountain has been cleared through the restoration period. The rest of Forsyth Park remains open and welcoming to visitors.

• If you have a large crew of 7 or more and equipment consisting of more than 2 cameras and a portable light.

• If you want to film on public rights-of-way (ROW), including public buildings, streets and sidewalks.

• If you require exclusive use of a location.

It takes at least five business days to review and approve a film application. More complicated applications may take longer.

No, you'll need to choose your own location. However, once you've selected one, we can discuss the possibility of filming there and explore whether we can obtain the necessary permits.

• Officers are needed for any filming in any park or square after 10 PM.

• Any filming taking place in the street or a lane for traffic control.

• Any filming with prop guns/simulated gunfire.

You need to notify businesses and residents 48 hours prior to filming.

• Run cold water taps for at least 5 minutes (run them longer if you live in a large building). 
• Begin with the highest faucet in your home and work your way down to the lowest.  

• Run and discard one cycle of water through: 
• Refrigerator water dispensers 
• Ice makers (discard old ice and make new ice) 

• Replace water filters in: 
• Fridge 
• Under-sink systems 
• Pitcher 
• Sanitize the following:  
• Ice bins 
• Water coolers  
• Coffee makers (run a cleaning cycle with clean water) 
• Any other water-using appliances 

Remove and clean faucet screens if needed. 

• Flush each toilet once to clear the water lines.

• Discard any stored water you collected during the advisory.  

Georgia Department of Health (DPH)/Chatham County Health Department 

CDC website. 

Monday – Friday, 8:15 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Utility Bill and Property Tax Payments can be made online. All payments, along with a copy of the current bill stub or invoice, can be placed in the drop box on the side of the building. Please do not place cash or credit/debit cards in the drop box.

The Cashiering Unit accepts Cash, Check, all major credit/debit cards as well as digital wallet payments. 

• In Person – all bills
• Online – Property Taxes and Utility Bills
• ACH – Utility Bills
• Drop Box
• Mail In

• Utility Bills
• Property Taxes
• Excise Taxes
• Alcohol Licenses and Renewals
• Business Tax Certificates and Renewals
• Housing Loan Payments
• Code Compliance Payments
• Real Estate Rental Payments

A copy of the most current bill stub or invoice.

These taxes are intended to be paid by customers, collected and held by the business, and then submitted to the City Revenue Department the following month. They are not intended to be paid by the business.

The use of Hotel/Motel Proceeds is determined by the Official Code of Georgia: 

• 37.5% goes towards the city’s general fund
• 33.8% goes towards promoting tourism, conventions, and trade shows
• 14% goes towards marketing or operating trade and convention facilities
• 14.7 goes towards Tourism Product Development

The use of Auto Rental Proceeds shall be: 

• Promoting industry, trade, commerce, and tourism
• Capital Projects related to convention, trade, sport, recreational, and public safety facilities
• Maintenance, operations, security, and public safety expenses related to capital projects
• Constructing and equipping the Civic Center Arena and public improvements associated with the Canal District

The use of Occupancy Proceeds shall be: 

• Funding the operation of the Water Ferry System and other convention-related costs

• If your business is selected for audit, you will be notified by mail. The letter will specify which Excise Tax is being audited, a list of required documentation to be submitted, and the timeframe in which the documentation needs to be submitted. If documentation is not received in the required timeframe, a second letter will be sent with an updated timeframe. If documentation is still not submitted, the business will be subject to an unannounced site visit to retrieve the required documentation.
• Once the required documentation is received, the city will begin its review, determining if the documentation adequately supports the information presented on the tax returns submitted during the period under audit. There may be correspondence between the city and the business if additional documentation is needed or if clarification is needed on the documentation provided.
• Once all documentation has been reviewed and all questions have been answered, the city will contact the business to inform them of whether or not they have been found to be in compliance. If compliant, no further action will be required on the business’s part. If noncompliant, the business may be subject to payment of additional taxes, interest, and penalties to be brought into compliance.
• Failure to comply at any point in the audit process may subject the business to fines, penalties, interest, and a subpoena.

We are working to make this feature available within the next 12 – 18 months.

Yes.