Georgia enforces a statewide commercial building code based on the International Building Code with state-specific amendments. Local jurisdictions may amend the code under strict conditions but cannot adopt entirely different commercial building codes.
The City of Atlanta adopts Georgia state minimum codes with Georgia amendments and does not apply additional local amendments. Commercial design standards align with state-adopted codes, and fire/life-safety enforcement is managed by the State Fire Marshal.
Statewide code updates are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026, with the City of Atlanta aligning to the new codes. The updates will include changes to building, fire, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fuel gas, and swimming pool and spa codes, while the energy code remains unchanged at the 2015 edition with Georgia-specific supplements.