Show All Answers

1. Does Effingham County have a leash law?

Yes, all pets must be contained by a leash, fence, or other appropriate means at all times. This includes cats and livestock.

2. How old should my dog, cat, or ferret be to receive a rabies vaccination?

Between 12 and 16 weeks of age, depending upon your veterinarian.

3. I have been bitten by an animal. Who do I need to get in touch with?

You need to call Effingham County Sheriffs Office Humane Enforcement Division at 912-754-4195.

4. Is my dog, cat, or ferret required to receive a rabies vaccination?

Yes. State and County law mandate all pets are to have a current rabies vaccination.

5. Should I move an injured animal?

No, because the animal is in pain and may bite you. Call humane services at 912-754-4195.

6. What are the signs of rabies?

- Avoidance of food, water
- Bizarre behavior such as no fear of humans by wild animals
- Extreme depression
- Excessive salivation
- Impaired locomotion and swallowing
- Paralysis
- Unusual aggression

7. Who do I contact if my question isn't answered here?

For other questions regarding local pet ordinances contact the Effingham County Humane Division at 912-754-4195. For questions about wildlife, contact Jordan Crawford with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources at 912-663-4230.

8. Why is my dog or cat being quarantine for 10 days for biting or scratching a person?

State law mandates all animals involved in a bite or scratch incident will be observed for rabies for a period of ten days.

Show All Answers

1. What are your office hours?

Office hours are Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Closed on National Holidays.

2. What are the filing fees in Superior/State Courts?

Civil filing fees are $210.00 plus $50.00 for sheriff's service for EACH defendant.

Show All Answers

1. Do I need a permit for a fence?

Only if your fence is seven feet or taller will a permit be required.  If you are installing a standard six feet tall fence, no, a permit is not required. 

2. How long does it take for a building permit to be approved?

Once we have received the building permit application and all supporting documentation filled out in its entirety the plan review and permit approval process is seven to ten business days.

3. How long is the building permit valid for?

A building permit is valid for one year.

4. What happens when a building permit expires?

Depending on what stage in the construction your permit is at, you will have to pay a percentage of the original permit fee to reinstate your permit.

5. Do I need a building permit?

Anything 200 square feet or bigger is required to have a building permit.

6. How far off of the property line does an accessory building need to be?

Accessory building setbacks at five feet off of the back property line and ten feet off of the side property line.

7. Can a homeowner pull a permit.

Yes.  A home owner will complete all forms related to a building permit as well as complete the Home Owners Affidavit which is required to be notarized and submit with the building permit application.

Show All Answers

1. What should be in a basic emergency supply kit?

You can find a list of items and descriptions for emergency supply kits here.

2. How should Effingham County citizens evacuate for a hurricane?

If given the suggestion to evacuate ahead of a hurricane, Effingham citizens should move inland and west. Take Hwy 21 and Hwy 17 north toward Augusta, or Hwy 80 and I-16 west toward Macon/Atlanta.

Show All Answers

1. How can I apply for a position with EMS?

You may apply in person for a full time or part time position with Effingham County EMS by visiting Human Resources located at 804 S. Laurel Street Springfield, Georgia 31329. Alternately, you may visit the Job Opportunities page on this website to apply online for any available position.

2. How can I pay my EMS bill?

You may pay in person using cash or check by visiting the Effingham County EMS Office located at 285 1st Street Extension Springfield, Ga 31329. 

You may pay by phone using a credit card or debit card by contacting the billing company, Colleton Software, at 800-874-3617. 

Show All Answers

1. Does Effingham County have an animal leash law?

Yes, all pets must be contained by a leash, fence, or other appropriate means at all times. This includes cats and livestock.

2. How do I contact the County Administrator?

Find contact information in our Staff Directory.

3. Which Fire District am I in?

Find out which Fire District you are in on our Fire & Rescue page.

4. Who enforces the county codes?

You can contact code enforcement here - 

Code Enforcement

5. Where can I find the GIS Interactive Maps?

You can see the GIS Interactive Maps by clicking this link: Click here to see GIS Interactive maps.

Show All Answers

1. Does the fire department fill swimming pools?

No. Due to our need for drafting from open water sources (ponds, lakes, rivers), and the fact that the inside of our tanks and hoses cannot be cleaned to guarantee water quality for safe use, we cannot fill swimming pools. 

2. Does the fire department charge for emergency responses?

No, ECFR does not charge for any emergency response or non-emergency public assist requests.

Show All Answers

1. What is GIS?

A geographic information system (GIS) is a system designed to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage, and present all types of geographical data

2. What should I do if my property lines are wrong on the GIS website?

GIS data are for reference purposes only. If you need help in locating your property boundaries please contact a licensed surveyor.

Effingham County GIS Department

Show All Answers

1. How may I submit an application?

You may submit an application in the following manner:

• EMAIL:    Send to:  hr@effinghamcounty.org
• FAX:  912-754-8402
• IN PERSON OR VIA U.S. MAIL:  

Effingham County Board of Commissioners 

Human Resources Office

601 North Laurel Street

Springfield GA 31329

Enter in the back door on Pine Street

2. Are resumes' accepted?

Resumes are accepted when accompanied by a completed application.  Resumes’ submitted without a completed application will not be considered.

Show All Answers

1. What number do I call if I need a Humane Enforcement Deputy to respond?

Please call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449. A dispatcher will assist you with your problem and will notify a Humane Enforcement Deputy, who will respond to your home or incident location. In the event of an emergency, dial 911.

2. What hours do Humane Enforcement Deputies work?

Humane Enforcement Deputies are on duty Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

3. What if I have an animal problem on the weekend or after hours on a weekday?

You still need to call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449. If it is the weekend or after-hours on a weekday, the dispatcher will send a Patrol Deputy to respond. Then, if the Patrol Deputy determines that a Humane Enforcement Deputy is needed, he or she will notify dispatch.

4. What do I do if my pet becomes lost?

If your pet is missing, you can visit or call the Effingham County Animal Shelter at 307 Highway 119 North, Springfield, to see if your pet was brought in by Humane Enforcement Deputies.

5. Does my pet have to be on a leash?

Yes. Any time your pet is off of your personal property, it must be on a physical restraining device such as a leash.

6. Am I required to register my pet with the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office?

No. Your rabies tag on your dog or cat serves as your registration. Rabies tags must be current, obtained from a licensed veterinarian and displayed on your pet at all times.

7. What should I do if I find a lost or stray animal?

If you find a lost or stray animal you can turn it in to the Effingham County Animal Shelter at 307 Highway 119 North, Springfield, or you can call the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office at 912-754-3449 and a Humane Enforcement Deputy will come to your home to pick it up.

Show All Answers

1. In which county should I file my lawsuit?

You must file a lawsuit in the correct venue. Depending on the case, venue typically lies in the county where the defendant lives, where a substantial part of the business was transacted, where the real property is located, injury occurred or place of employment.

2. Do I need a lawyer?

Perhaps one of the most important functions of the Magistrate Court is to provide a readily available legal forum to solve disputes. It is not necessary to have an attorney to file a suit or defend a suit in this court. As a matter of fact, the Court is designed to help non-lawyers with the various steps in handling their own cases.

This is not to say that lawyers are not welcomed and even encouraged, but there are many occasions when the amounts of money in controversy do not warrant engaging an attorney. Always remember that the Magistrate Court Judge is obligated, by law, to conduct the Court in a way that is fair to non-lawyers as well as to lawyers. The procedural rules of law are not a strictly enforced in the Magistrate Court as in other courts. The Magistrate Judge will apply rules of pleading and practice so as to administer substantial justice.

3. What do I need to bring with me to the court hearing?

You should bring witnesses that you feel have direct knowledge of the facts that are related to your case and any documents such as photographs, repair bills, receipts, or contracts that you feel will prove your case.

4. How are cases presented in court?

The plaintiff carries the burden of proof and gets to present their evidence and witnesses first. After a witness testifies, the other party in the case can cross examine that witness. Once the plaintiff has presented all their evidence and witnesses, the defendant will have an opportunity to do the same.

5. What do I wear to court?

Proper court attire is required for court appearances. It is asked that no shorts, halter tops, or flip flops be worn inside of the courtroom. Cellular phones and pagers must be turned off. Children under the age of 10 are not permitted in the courtroom. No food or drinks allowed.

6. Can I appeal my civil case if I lose in court?

Yes. You must file a Notice of Appeal and tender appeal fees ($205) with the clerk of the Magistrate Court within 30 days of the entry of judgment on the case. Appeals from dispossessory cases have to be filed within 7 days of the entry of judgment and follow a different format. The case will be forwarded to the Superior Court of Effingham County and will be assigned a new case number and will be scheduled for a new trial.

7. What is the difference between a dismissal "with prejudice" and a dismissal "without" prejudice?

A dismissal with prejudice means that the case can never be filed against the other party again. A dismissal without prejudice means that the case can be re-filed.

8. Can I speak to a Judge when I come into your office?

No. Judges are not allowed to carry on ex-parte communications with a potential litigant. In other words, if the judge hears too much information from one party, it may prevent the Judge from being able to hear the case in court.

9. Can a Magistrate Judge perform wedding services?

Yes! Judge Lewis and Judge Sexton of the Magistrate Court are happy to perform wedding services. Please call ahead to 912-754-2124 and schedule.

10. What if I need special assistance?

If you have a disability, speak another language, or require special accommodations in the courtroom, please call 912-754-2124 before your hearing to allow the court time to properly assist you.

11. I won a judgement. Where and when do I get paid?

It is often much easier to win a judgment than it is to collect it. There are several courses of action one may pursue in an attempt to collect a judgment. For information on these options, visit the Post-Judgements page.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Continuing Garnishment?

A continuing garnishment is filed against employers only, and is used to attach wages. A continuing garnishment lasts for 179 days, with an additional 15 days for the court to receive the last check. The case closes on the 195th day after the garnishee was served.

2. What is a regular garnishment?

A regular garnishment is filed against banks, credit unions, contractors, or any time that a 'one shot' summons will do. A regular garnishment may be used to attach commissions on which the employer does not withhold any type of tax. It will attach 100% of the commissions.

3. Can I do a regular garnishment on a joint bank account?

Yes. You may file a regular garnishment against a joint bank account even though all holders of they account may not be defendants. A joint bank account's asset belongs to holders in proportion to the contributions made by each, unless proved otherwise.

4. How does one apply for an involuntary allotment from military personnel for commercial debt?

A creditor may initiate this process against a military member by submitting an involuntary Allotment Application along with a certified copy of a final judgment issued by a civil court. An original and two copies of both the form and the judgment are required. Also, the application must contain the member's full name and social security number for positive identification. The completed package should be filed with the Magistrate Court.

Involuntary Allotment Application (PDF)

Show All Answers

1. What are the benefits of Mediation?

Mediation allows you to control your own dispute and resolve the problem yourself rather than having a judge decide for you. Mediation is also fast and cost effective. There is no additional cost to participate in the mediation program. In a mediation session, everyone has the opportunity to voice their concerns and the privilege of speaking without interruption.

2. What is the Mediator’s Role?

The mediator does not act in the capacity of an attorney and is not an advocate for either party. The mediator facilitates discussions and assists parties in reaching an agreement. The mediator shall at all times remain neutral, unbiased, and shall act in good faith.

3. What evidence should be brought to mediation?

During mediation, parties should exchange any evidence that might potentially be presented to a judge at trial (i.e., pictures, contracts, lease agreements, etc). If a settlement agreement is not reached and the parties proceed to trial, evidence that has not first been viewed by the other party will not be considered by the judge.

4. Are witnesses allowed?

Witnesses should be kept to a minimum, as mediation is not an advocacy or fact-establishing forum. Witnesses are allowed at the discretion of the Mediator and the opposing party.

5. Is there a cost for Mediation?

Mediation for the Effingham County Magistrate Court is voluntary and free.

Show All Answers

1. I heard I can now water my yard every day. Is that true?

Yes. The Governor recently signed a new state law. Citizens in Georgia can now water any day of the week regardless of your address between the hours of 4 p.m. and 10 AM. There is no watering between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. These new time limitations are only for landscape water use.

2. Can I now wash my car or pressure wash my house any day too?

No. The new law signed by the governor only relates to landscape uses. The old odd /
even schedule remains in place for all other outdoor uses. Even and unnumbered
addresses may use water outdoors for cleaning, recreation, etc. on Mondays,
Wednesdays, and Saturdays; odd addresses may use water for these activities on
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. There are no "hourly" restrictions for these
activities.

3. If I don't have an automated sprinkler do I have to water with a hose before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.?

No. The new rules allow hand watering with a shut off nozzle any time of the day any day of the week.

4. What if I have a little league game scheduled and we need to water the field to cool it down or settle the dust at 2 p.m.?

Sports fields and parks are exempt from the hourly restrictions. These areas may be watered any time any day of the week.

5. What if I put in new landscape? Do I have to water between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m.?

No. Newly installed landscape is also exempt from the hourly restrictions for the first 30 days following installation.

6. What about drip irrigation?

Drip irrigation is completely exempt from the outdoor rules it may be used any day or any time.

7. Why can’t I wash my car any day of the week too?

The changes to the landscaping rules were part of a new state law. The other outdoor uses were not addressed. As municipal governments / water suppliers we are required by law to follow all of the current water use rules. The current rules for uses other than landscape are no hourly restrictions on the odd / even schedule. These rules are also being considered for an update and we will make information available as soon as any changes are made.

8. What exemptions exist to the new hourly restrictions?

- Commercial Agriculture
- Alternative sources of water (grey water, rain water, condensate, etc.)
- Irrigation of food gardens
- Irrigation of newly installed or reseeded turf for the first 30 days
- Drip irrigation or soaker hoses
- Hand watering with a shut off nozzle
- Water from a private well
- Irrigation of plants for sale
- Irrigation of athletic fields, golf courses or public recreational turf
- Installation and maintenance of irrigation systems
- Hydroseeding

9. What if a professional pressure washes my house? Does it have to be on the odd / even schedule?

No. Commercial businesses are exempt from day of the week restrictions.

10. Now can I have a charity car wash on any day regardless of the address?

No. Unfortunately charity car washes like at home car washes are subject to the odd / even schedule. This is determined by the address of the facility hosting the car wash. Of course partnering with a professional car wash is exempt from the odd /even schedule because of their “professional exemption”. It is also a best practice for saving both water quality and quantity.

Being allowed to water everyday does not mean it is the best practice. Irrigation
should supplement rainfall. Ideally most established landscapes in periods of limited rainfall need to be watered deeply once a week. The reasonable use of our water resources is essential in the region. Use the step test and visual inspection to determine if your plants and grass need to be watered.

11. How do I perform the "step test"?

- Place your foot firmly on your turf area.
- Watch how quickly the turf springs up to cover your footprint.
- If the turf springs up immediately (a few seconds) your turf is probably not in need of watering.
- If the foot print remains or the turf slowly rises to eventually cover it your turf is in need of a deep watering.

12. What should I look for when I visually inspect my plants?

- Check plants in the early morning or late evening. Plants checked in the heat of the day will always appear to need water.
- If the plant is wilting; yellow or grayish in appearance; has dried edges or browning; or loss of flowering the plant is probably in need of water.

Show All Answers

1. What size baseball bat can my child use?

Check usabat.com  for approved bat listings.

2. Can you fish in Baker Pond?

Yes you can.  But you must have a fishing license.

3. Can you put a boat in Baker Pond?

You can, but you CANNOT have a motorized boat.  Any unmotorized boat is fine. 

4. Can I reserve a pavilion at Baker Pond?

No.  The pavilions are first come, first serve.  We recommend you get there early to claim your spot.

5. Can my child play up in a different age group?

They can if they have played in there correct age group for at least one year.  Please call the office for more information on that.

Show All Answers

1. What are the visiting hours?

Visitation for inmates is on Saturdays, Sundays, and County observed Holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

2. Inmate Accounts, Commissary and Care Packages, or Telephone Accounts?

If you wish to put money on an inmate’s account, there are only three acceptable methods to do this:

1.  Through the Kiosk in our lobby. Directions on how to do this are on the kiosk.
2.  Go to the website for JailPackStore  and follow the instructions there. Care packages are available on this website.
3.  Call the Toll Free Number for Assistance.  1-800-822-9388.

Inmate Commissary Services:

Company’s Name:  McDaniel Supply Company

Toll Free Number:  1-800-822-9388

Website:  www.jailpackstore.com

Inmate Telephone Services:  

Company’s Name: Lattice Incorporated

Toll Free Number:  1-888-843-1972

Website:  www.ourphoneaccount.com

Show All Answers

1. what are your hours for gun permits

Monday thru Friday from 8:30 to 3:00 The sheriffs office does not fingerprint between 11:00 to 1:00

Show All Answers

1. Can my probation be transferred to another county?

Yes, upon approval of the court, and the receiving agency.

2. Does my officer know I am here?

If you have signed in to the office then yes, your officer knows.

3. Do you take checks?

We do not take personal checks.  Credit/debit cards are only accepted in on-line payments.  Money orders made out to E.C.P.O (Effingham County Probation Office) and cash, in the exact amount, are the methods of payment. Change will not be made, so please plan ahead. 

4. How do I contact a Felony Probation Officer?

The Felony Probation is in Statesboro, GA.  Their office is phone number is 912-871-1119.

5. How do I receive a driving permit?

The Probation Office has no authority to issue driving permits - they can only be issued by

Georgia State Patrol.

6. Is my Probation Officer here?

If you are reporting on the correct day and time, then yes your officer is here. If not, arrangements have been made by your Probation Officer for you to be seen by another Probation Officer.

7. Is there a way to pay off my community service?

Community service can not be "paid for."

8. Necesito un programa de DUI en español, ¿me pueden ayudar?

Hablamos español. - Las evaluaciones y los programas de tratamiento disponibles en español. - Primera vez y varios delincuentes

The Sanctuary Recovery Center (El Santuario)

609 Abercorn Street

Suite 1

Savannah, GA 31401

Phone: 912-231-2101

*Póngase en contacto con Frank Núñez, Director

9. What are the general conditions of probation?

The defendant, having been granted the privilege of serving all or part of the above-stated sentence on probation, hereby is sentenced to the following general conditions of probation:
- Do not violate the criminal laws of any governmental unit.
- Avoid injurious and vicious habits, especially alcoholic intoxication and narcotics and other dangerous drugs unless prescribed lawfully.
- Avoid persons or places of disreputable or harmful character.
- Report to the Probation/Parole Supervisor as directed and permit such Supervisor to visit them at home or elsewhere.
- Work faithfully at suitable employment insofar as may be possible.
- Do not change their present place of abode, move outside the jurisdiction of the Court, or leave the State for any period of time without prior permission of the Probation Supervisor.
- Support their legal dependents to the best of their ability.
- The Probationer shall, from time to time upon oral or written request by any Probation Officer, produce a breath, urine, and/or blood specimen for analysis for the possible presence of a substance prohibited or controlled by any law of the State of Georgia or of the United States.

Depending on the offense, you may also have other special conditions to complete, which will be on your Final Disposition Sheet that you receive at your first appointment.

10. What if I can't pay at my appointment?

If you do not have your payment on your appointment day, you should report to us anyway. We will make arrangements for you to catch up on the payment before the end of the month.

11. What is Parole?

In criminal justice systems, parole is the supervised release of a prisoner before the completion of his/her sentence. This office does not supervise “parolees.” For more information, please contact the Georgia Board of Pardons and Parole at 404-656-5651 or visit the

Georgia Department of Corrections website.

12. What is Probation?

Probation is the suspension of all or part of a jail sentence. The defendant who is "on probation" has been convicted of a crime, but instead of serving jail time, has been found by the Court to be agreeable to probation and will be returned to the community for a period in which they will have to abide to certain conditions set forth by the Court under the supervision of a probation officer.

General conditions may include maintaining employment, abiding to a curfew, living where directed, abstaining from unlawful behavior, following the probation officer's orders, not absconding, and refraining from contact with other individuals, who may include victims of the original crime (such as a former partner in a domestic violence case), potential victims of similar crimes (such as minors when the crime involves child sexual abuse), potential witnesses, or those who have partnered with the offender in the earlier crime.

13. What is the phone number to the Adult Misdemeanor Probation Office

912-754-4155

14. Why am I making my payment after my appointment?

Your officer will put your next appointment in the computer, then after your payment is made it will automatically print on your payment receipt.

Show All Answers

1. Where do I vote on Election Day?

Go to the My Voter Page, it will provide you with your Polling Place name & address.

2. I moved, how do I update my address?

You can update your current voter registration information by going to My Voter Page. This allows you to login so you can view and update your voter registration information. If your information needs to be updated you will be directed to the Online Voter Registration where you can update your information digitally or you can print your application and mail it  or bring it into our office.

3. When and where can I Early Vote?

For more information on Early Voting please look at our Absentee & Early Voting page.

4. Where can I early vote?

The Elections Office is the only Early Voting location. If you do not early vote, you must go to your precinct on Election Day. If you do not know where to vote visit the My Voter Page.

5. I am going to be out of the County on Election Day, can I vote in another County?

No, you must vote in the County that you are registered in. Information on how to vote by mail or early in person can be found on our Absentee & Early Voting Pages.

6. Can someone request an Absentee Ballot for me?

Yes, if you are temporarily residing out of the county (the ballot must be mailed out of county) or are a elderly or physically disabled voter. See out Absentee by Mail Page.

7. How do I get my ballot if I am in the Military and or out of the Country?

Please visit our Absentee by Mail page for more information. You can also visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program page.

8. Does registering to vote qualify me for jury duty?

No. Registering to vote has no direct link to qualifying you for jury duty. Jurors are selected through the Department of Drivers Services. If you have a drivers license you are qualified to be selected for jury duty.

9. How can I see my ballot?

We have copies of Composite Ballots on our Sample Ballot page and in our Office. But to see your specific ballot go to the My Voter Page. 

10. Who are my Representatives?

You can view a list of your local Representative on our Elected Officials page. To view State and Federal Representatives you can go to the Secretary of States Official Directory page. 

11. Can I vote if I am a Felon?

No person convicted of a felony may register, remain registered or vote,except upon completion of the sentence and voting right have been restored.

12. Do I need to registered by Party?

No, Georgia does not require you to registered with a party. You will choose what party ballot you want when you go to vote.

13. How do I get a Voter Registration List?

By law, voter registration lists are available to the public and contain the following information: voter name, residential address, mailing address if different, race, gender, registration date, and last voting date.  Pricing is set by the Secretary of State's Office.  Such data may not be used by any person for commercial purposes.  (O.C.G.A § 21-2-225 (c))

For information about ordering lists of registered voters in your district, please visit the Secretary of State's Website.

Show All Answers

1. How do I start a neighborhood watch in my neighborhood?

See our Neighborhood Watch Checklist (PDF).

2. How can I apply for employment with the Effingham County Sheriff's Office?

The Effingham County Sheriff's Office accepts applications for employment on a continual basis . You may download a copy of the application. Please be sure to complete the application in its entirety. Employment Application (PDF)

3. I am clergy and wish to visit an inmate in the Effingham County Jail. What are the procedures for visitation?

If you are an ordained or licensed minister, please contact the Chaplain's Office to schedule digital visitation.

4. Can I pay a traffic citation online?

Yes you can. Find specific instructions at the Effingham County Traffic Citation Payment portal.

5. Does the Sheriff's Office have a House Watch Program for vacationers?

Yes. The Effingham County Sheriff's Office is pleased to offer the House Watch Program to citizens who live within the county jurisdiction. Please complete the House Watch Form and bring it to the Communications Division located at:
130 1st Street West Springfield
GA 31329

They are located in the Jail Complex building. House Watch Form (PDF)

6. Where can I download an application for the "Are You Okay?" Program?

Download the Are You Okay Form (PDF).

Show All Answers

1. How do I get a public defender?

You can apply for a public defender on your Arraignment court date.  The public defender will make an announcement before court is in session for applications and process.

Show All Answers

1. Can I file homestead for my spouse?

Only one person is required to actually come in the office or apply online to file for homestead. However, that person must be listed on the deed of the property to sign the application. That person must provide a copy of driver’s license for themselves, their spouse, and all other persons listed on the deed. Click here to apply online. (Note: you have to search for your specific property, once found, there will be a blue button in the upper left corner labeled "Apply for Homestead") 

2. Can I have homestead on two properties?

No you cannot have homestead on two properties. Neither you or your spouse can legally claim homestead on two separate properties by claiming one property in one spouse's name and the other property in the other spouse's name. Homestead may be granted on the property considered to be your primary residence. If any taxpayer is found to be receiving homestead on two or more properties, or on a property they do not permanently reside in, the Tax Assessor's office reserves the right to fine them two times the savings per year for three years that double exemption was received. 

3. Do I qualify for a Disabled Veterans Exemption?

In order to qualify for the Disabled Veterans Exemption, you must have documentation from the Department of Veteran Affairs stating that you are 100% disabled from a wartime conflict.

4. Will everyone receive an Assessment Notice?

Yes. Every property owner in the state of Georgia will receive a standardized Assessment Notice from the county where your property is located. Stay abreast by checking our website page for the announcement of when they are mailed out and the Appeal deadline date. 

5. What is a Real Estate Property Tax Return?

Every property owner in Georgia has the right to declare your fair market value every year between January 1 and April 1.

6. Does it have anything to do with my Income Taxes?

No. Property Tax Returns do not have anything to do with your income taxes.

7. What will happen to my assessment if I improve my property?

Your property values may go up or down depending on the changes made to your property.

8. What do I need to bring to file homestead?

When coming in the office or going online to file for homestead, you must provide proof of identity and residency. Please provide a valid driver's license for yourself, your spouse, and all other persons listed on the deed, and a current utility bill with your name and property address on it. Please make sure vehicle registration and voters registration have an up to date address. If you are 62 or older and claiming the senior exemption with income requirements, you will need to bring in a copy of your most recent combined household federal income tax return (1040 form). The authorized income values are determined by the Georgia Department of Revenue and may change annually. Contact our office for the most accurate figures. For addition information on what to bring - please click here or call our office at 912-754-2125.

9. When do I need to contact the Tax Commissioner's office?

If you are inquiring about the amount due on your property taxes; need a receipt of payment of property taxes or to discuss a lien on your property, you will need to contact the Tax Commissioner's office at 754-2121 or by referring to their website.

10. What is the deadline to file for Homestead Exemptions?

The Tax Assessor's office accepts homestead exemption applications year round. The applicant applying for homestead exemption must have owned and permanently resided on the property as of January 1st, and must have applied by April 1st for the homestead to take effect that year. If the application did meet those deadlines, the homestead application will go into effect the following year. The file deadline is NOT ADJUSTABLE for any circumstance. (NOTE: homestead is NOT automatically given. The taxpayer MUST sign the application and provided the appropriate supporting documents by these deadlines in order for the homestead to be applied to their account.) 

11. Can I appeal my property tax bill?

A tax appeal is not an appeal of your tax bill. The amount of taxes you pay is never an issue during an appeal because neither the Tax Assessor nor County Tax Board has control over budgets submitted by municipalities, schools, counties or fire districts. You may however appeal your property value.  Please go to our Assessment Appeals Process page for more information.

12. Can I be present when an Appraiser reviews my property?

Yes. Due to the large number of parcels we serve, please contact our office to speak with an appraiser. They will be able to set up an appointment that is feasible for both parties. Our office phone number is 912-754-2125 

Show All Answers

1. How can I find out if there are wetlands on my property.

Visit our County's GIS service which displays wetland areas, floodplains, and property information.

2. What is the National Wetland Inventory?

The National Wetland Inventory is a map of areas that may be possible wetlands that have been created by the National Army Corps of Engineers. Any construction activity within these areas will require a "Wetland Specialist" to survey the area and determine if wetlands are present before construction can begin. If actual wetlands are present and disturbed then the National Army Corp of Engineers reserves the right to restore these or other wetlands at the expense of the developer. For more information, please visit here.