Common Violations

The Code Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing the City’s zoning and property maintenance regulations, which define permitted activities on residential, commercial, professional office, industrial, and agriculturally zoned properties.

Below are some of the most common residential code violation complaints received by the City.

Common Residential Code Violations

Abandoned or Salvaged Vehicles

Unless otherwise permitted by City regulations, inoperative or unlicensed vehicles may not be parked, stored, or kept on a property.

Vehicles missing a current registration or valid license plate decal are considered junk or salvaged vehicles and are prohibited.

Vehicles in a state of major disassembly, disrepair, stripping, or dismantling are also considered code violations.

Accumulations of Trash and Debris

Exterior property areas, premises, and the interior of structures must be kept free of excessive accumulations of rubbish or garbage.

Illegal Signs

Signs that do not comply with the City of Sandy Springs Sign Code Ordinance are prohibited.

Noise

Noise that is excessively loud or disturbing and that interferes with the comfort, peace, health, or safety of others may be considered a nuisance.

Residential activities are permitted only during the following hours:

• Daytime noise: 7:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. Cannot exceed 65 dB(A)
• Nighttime noise: 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. Cannot exceed 55 dB(A)

Commercial Mixed Used District activities are permitted only during the following hours:

• Daytime noise: 7:00 a.m.–11:00 p.m. Cannot exceed 80 dB(A)
• Nighttime noise: 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. Cannot exceed 60 dB(A)

Construction and Commercial Landscaping activities are permitted only during the following hours:

• Monday–Friday: 7:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Sundays and holidays: No permitted hours

Anyone seeking to work outside of these permitted hours must first obtain a variance from the Community Development Department.

Overgrown Grass and Weeds

Grass and weeds must be kept trimmed and may not exceed the maximum height allowed by City regulations.

Outdoor Storage Associated with a Permitted Use

Furniture, appliances, supplies, and equipment stored outdoors must be screened from adjoining properties using a solid fence or vegetative screen.

Outdoor Storage Not Associated with a Permitted Use

Outdoor storage of tires, auto parts, appliances, machinery, or building materials is prohibited.

Parking on Grass

Vehicles must be parked on approved all-weather surfaces.

Residential Structures

• Residential structures must not show visible signs of decay.
• Exterior wood surfaces, except decay-resistant materials, must be protected from weather and deterioration using paint or another approved protective covering.
• Vacant accessory structures, including garages, must be maintained in good repair.
• A permit is required when a building or structure is enlarged, altered, repaired, moved, or demolished.

For a complete explanation of code violations in Sandy Springs, review the City’s Code of Ordinances through Municode.

• City of Sandy Springs Code of Ordinances (Municode)