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Will I need a building permit?
When you construct a new building, add to an existing building, alter the interior, make repairs, or otherwise rehabilitate a structure, you will need a permit. A permit is also required for such items as installing a fence, swimming pool, or dock, removing a tree, demolition of a structure, etc. Before starting any project, discuss permit requirements with the Building & Zoning staff located in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue. They can be contacted via phone at (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114.
How do I get a Business License and what does one cost?
A Business License is required to operate a business in Tybee Island. To obtain a business license or inquire about license fees, contact the Building & Zoning Department located in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue. They can be contacted via phone at (912) 786 4573, extension 114.
Why are zoning and land use so important in the City?
Zoning and land use planning exists to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community and to help preserve property values. When moving or establishing a new business check the location's zoning to be sure it is allowed in the area of the City where you plan for it to be located. Visit the Building & Zoning Department located at City Hall, 403 Butler Avenue, or call (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114. Staff can determine the zone or zones that are compatible with your intended business or construction.
What can you tell me about parking requirements, height restrictions and other regulations?
Depending on the type of business and the zoning, a variety of parking requirements, height restrictions, density limitations, landscaping regulations and other items may apply. Building & Zoning staff can help with this matter. The office is located in City Hall, 403 Butler Avenue. Visit or call to determine what is necessary for your type of enterprise. The telephone number is (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114.
Who does building inspections and why do I need them?
Building inspections are handled through the Building & Zoning Department. Some inspections are handled by Chatham County staff under contract with the City of Tybee Island. Two very good reasons for building inspections are:
- To insure compliance with the minimum building standards and,
- To protect the health safety and welfare of owners and occupants by insuring the structure will withstand loads and wind forces.
Contact Building & Zoning staff for more information at (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114. The office is located in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue.
What do I need to know about signs and exterior lighting?
The City's sign ordinance regulates the type, number, size, height, placement, and area for signage, as well as permitting requirements. Only permanently constructed signs are allowed. Wind-driven, portable and animated signs are permitted temporarily. Similarly, a light and glare ordinance regulates the type, height, placement, foot candle level, and permitting requirements for all exterior signs and lights to protect sea turtles. Contact Building & Zoning staff for more information at (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114. The office is located in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue.
Can I show or sell merchandise outside?
The display of any merchandise outside of any building is generally prohibited. Conducting business outside of any building or on public property is prohibited, except where allowed by code. If you have any questions please contact the Building & Zoning department in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue. The phone number is (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114.
Are there requirements for tree protection and landscaping?
Tybee Island has a specific landscaping and tree protection ordinance in effect. To find out your property's landscaping requirement, contact the Building & Zoning staff at (912) 786-4573, extension 104, or visit City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue, or search the City Code for trees. This ordinance identifies which trees must be preserved and protected.
Who do I ask about stormwater management and public utilities?
New construction projects and renovations may involve stormwater control requirements, as well as impact fees and tap fees. To find out what is required contact:
Stormwater - Department of Public Works (912) 786-4573, extension 132
Public Utilities - Water/Sewer Department (912) 786-4573, extension 122
Who does fire inspections?
Tybee Island contracts with Chatham County to provide this service. To ascertain that your facility complies with fire safety regulations contact the Building & Zoning staff to schedule an inspection at (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114.
I'm having a yard sale, or my organization is hosting a special event; can I put up signs to advertise it?
The City has regulations about the use of yard signs, and there are also restrictions on advertising banners. There are specific banner locations, at the Tybee Welcome sign by the Lazaretto Bridge and in Memorial Park, that require a banner permit application and approval for use. A banner permit is also required to put up the small banners on telephone and light poles. Yard signs are permitted only in your own yard or in the yard of someone who has given you explicit permission to place a sign - written notification of permission must be on file with the Zoning Department before you place the sign! Improperly placed or unapproved signs will be removed and taken to the northwest corner of City Hall where it will be stored for two weeks. Any signs not picked up by the owner during this storage period will be disposed of at the City dump. Signs or banners that will be removed include: those located on City property without a proper permit; those located on a utility pole, traffic sign, or street sign; those located on a tree in any City right of way; those on a public fence, hydrant, curb, parking meter, barricade, or crossover; and, those located on a property without written notification of permission filed with the City Marshal's office.
What about other questions that I need answered?
The answers to some questions will vary, depending on the zoning, size, use, and other factors unique to your property. Please check with the City before taking action, whether you are building a new structure or moving into an existing one. You will save time, energy and money by calling as soon as possible. The Building & Zoning staff is located in City Hall at 403 Butler Avenue, or call (912) 786-4573, extension 104 or 114.
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