FAQ

City Clerk

How do I apply for a occupational tax license?

Come to City Hall and apply as long as the address is inside the City.

What is the address to City Hall?

56 Malone Street.

What is an Open Record and how do I request one?

An open record is any documents, papers, letters, maps, books, tapes, photos, computer-based, or generated information or similar material prepared and maintained or received in the course of operation of a public office. A person seeking records may fill out an Open Record Request Form.

Community Development

How do I receive a right-of-way enroachment permit?

Download the right-of-way encroachment permit form.

How do I obtain a sign permit?

Download the sign permit application.

How do I get a donation box permit?

Submit a donation box permit application.

Emergency Communications/911

What do I say when contacting 911?

All you have to do is answer the questions. Stay on the phone and answer the dispatcher's questions as calmly as you can. The dispatcher will ask you to:

  • Describe the address of the problem
  • If you do not know the address, be prepared to give directions or describe your location
  • Describe the type of problem
  • Describe the situation/what is happening

Finance Department

How can I change the mailing address on my City of Fairburn property tax bill for future years?

Property tax records are maintained by the Fulton County Tax Assessor's Office. To permanently change your mailing address you must submit a written request to the Board of Tax Assessors. This may be done by mail, fax, or in person. The fax number is 404-893-6626. The mailing address is 235 Peachtree Street, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30303. You may also visit one of the following convenient locations: South Service Center 5600 Stonewall Tell Road College Park, GA 30349 North Service Center 7741 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30350 Alpharetta Service Center 3155 Royal Drive, Suite 175 Alpharetta, GA 30022

When are tax bills mailed and when are they due?

City of Fairburn property tax bills are mailed at the end of October of each year. Payment must be received on or before the due date of December 15 to avoid penalty and interest. Payments can be made in person or mailed to Fairburn City Hall, 56 Malone Street, Fairburn, GA 30213.

What if my property is under appeal?

If your property presently is under appeal you will receive a temporary tax bill with a value set at the higher of the taxpayer return value or 85% of the proposed value set by the Board of Tax Assessors. This bill must be paid by the due date in order to avoid interest, penalty, collection fees, and tax lien. A refund or an adjusted bill will be provided after the appeal is settled.

What additional fees are charged due to non-payment or late payment?

All taxes remaining unpaid after the due date of December 15 are considered delinquent and are subject to interest charges. A ten percent (10%) tax penalty accrues ninety (90) days after the due date. Additional fees and cost accrue as collection actions are taken.

1% interest is added on January 1 and each month thereafter until paid.

A 10% penalty is added on March 16 which is 90 days after the due date of December 15.

Collections fees are charged as they are incurred.

Tax liens are sold on the first Tuesday in September of each year. The location of the sale is the Council Chambers in the Fairburn City Hall.

What is this year's millage rate?

The 2018 millage rate is 9.566 mills, and is comprised of 8.1 mills for M&O and 1.466 mills for G.O. Bonds.

Who should I contact with questions about the payment of City Taxes, Homestead Exemptions or requests for a copy of a Tax bill?

Please contact Adam Rose Property Tax / Accountant I City of Fairburn 770-964-2244 Ext. 115.

When are Occupation Licenses due by?

March 1 annually.

When are Alcohol Licenses due by?

November 1 Annually.

Fire Department

Does Fairburn allow outdoor burning?

Yes; from October 1 through April 30. Individuals should call the Georgia Forestry Commission

Why does a fire truck come when you call for an ambulance?

Because firefighters can and do get there first, and time is critical in a medical emergency. Every Fairburn Fire fighter is cross-trained in Emergency Medical Services.

What is ISO and my fire insurance rating?

The Insurance Services Offices, Inc. (ISO) rates jurisdictions on factors related to fire coverage that include water supply, dispatch procedures, and fire resources. Our current rating for Fairburn is a 1.

Why does the City flow fire hydrants into the street when there's not a fire?

The City of Fairburn is required to conduct bi-annual hydrant service. This allows the Fire Department to ensure that the hydrants are in proper working order. Additionally, flowing the hydrants allows any obstructions, sediment, etc. to be flushed from the hydrant line.

When is hydrant service done?

Fire hydrant service is done twice a year, the dates are published on the City website, newsletter, and signage is placed in the affected neighborhoods.

Where does my ambulance come from?

Fulton County government maintains the ambulance contract for the entire County, including the City of Fairburn. Currently, a private vendor, Grady EMS, staff ambulances in the Fulton County zone. Normally, the "closest" ambulance to the emergency is dispatched by Fulton County communications.

Does the fire department charge for coming to my home?

There is no charge for fire department response to citizens of Fairburn. The expense incurred is maintained by the City fire department budget.

Why do so many fire apparatus respond to simple incidents?

Units are dispatched according to information received by Dispatch. Many times the type of situation found upon arrival is very different from the situation dispatched. And, part of responding to an emergency situation means being prepared to deal with the worst case scenario. Discovering that we need more units upon arrival is often too late. Experience has taught us that it's better to have too much help than not enough.

Why do fire trucks respond to motor vehicle accidents?

Automobile accidents present other hazards such as potential fire, ruptured fuel tanks, undeployed airbags and/or the presence of hazardous materials. If any occupants are trapped they will begin the extrication (removal) process. Since all of our firefighters are Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) or Paramedics, they can begin assessing an injured party's condition and assist in providing treatment prior to the arrival of ambulance personnel. Additionally, all fire apparatus carry extrication tools.

Why do fire trucks with full lights and sirens go through red lights at intersections and then, after they go through, they turn off their lights and slow down?

Emergency lights and siren are used only when responding to a call. Sometimes several units are dispatched to the same incident. When the first unit arrives on scene, they may assess the situation and inform the dispatcher they can handle the emergency. All other responding units are then cancelled and put back into service, ready to take another call.

When I see an emergency vehicle approaching with lights and sirens while I am driving, what should I do?

State law, and common sense, dictates that vehicles yield to emergency vehicles that are operating their emergency lights and siren. Emergency vehicle drivers are taught to pass on the left whenever possible when responding in an emergency mode. When safe, slow down, pull over to the right, and stop. However, there are circumstances where that may not be possible (if your car is already stopped, and you don't have anywhere to pull over). Simply stay put until the emergency vehicle goes around you. If you are blocking the route of the emergency vehicle, and you are able to pull ahead and over into a clear area, use your turn signal to indicate your intentions, and proceed at a safe speed. Never slam on the brakes and stop in the middle of the road when you see apparatus approaching. Make no sudden moves. If an emergency vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction, you should pull over and stop. You have no idea if they are proceeding down the road, or are planning on turning into a driveway or intersection right in front of you. You are not required to slow down or pull over for emergency vehicles that are responding in the opposite direction on a divided highway. Do not tailgate, "draft", or follow a responding apparatus closely. Not only is this illegal, you run the risk of collision as vehicles pull back out into traffic after the emergency vehicle goes by.

I live in Fairburn, why do I see fire trucks from different cities responding to calls here?

Fairburn Fire Department participates in an automatic aid agreement with cities within Fulton County and surrounding agencies. When you call 9-1-1, your call and location is entered into a computer at Fulton County Dispatch Center.). The computer will take the information from your call and depending on the closest unit based on the pre-existing automatic aid agreement, the unit closest to your emergency regardless of agency will be dispatched to your emergency. It is not uncommon to see outside agency fire apparatus in Fairburn and vice versa.

Municipal Court - Arraignments

How do I determine my arraignment date?

Your scheduled arraignment date and time will be listed at the bottom of the citation.

What should I do if I plan to plead not guilty?

You should call or visit the Court Clerk's Office in advance to have your court date reset. If you are located out of state, your arraignment date can be reset via e-mail or fax. Once received, you must fax or e-mail the signed copy of your reset notice to the court clerk, in lieu of signing in person.

Municipal Court - Community Service

What If I don't live in the area and cannot complete community service during traditional business hours.

You may complete your community service through any Georgia non-profit (501c3). This includes, but is not limited to: churches, Goodwill, animal rescues, Salvation Army, etc. Please communicate any issues or questions through the Court Services Office. In order for our office to accept the community service hours, you must turn in an official letter from the organization with your name and the hours you completed with them. The letter must be on official letterhead and you must turn it in to the Court Clerk's Office, with a time sheet, signed by representative of organization. It must include contact information and/or business card. Please do not contact Mr. Stokes if you are completing community service through a non-profit. Please note: this office does not accept 2-for-1 credit for community service hours.

Park & Recreations

When is the Fall Festival

The Fairburn Fall Festival is held the 1st Saturday of October of each year.

Planning and Zoning

How do I find the zoning of a property?

Call the Planning and Zoning Department.  770-964-2244

Is my property located in the City of Fairburn

Go to the Fulton County GIS website and type in your address.

 

 

Rezoning application

Located in the Document section of Planning and Zoning.

Rezoning application

Police Department

Short Term Rental

What properties are eligible to become short term rentals?

Single-family and residentially zoned properties are allowed to be used for short term rentals. This includes the following zoning districts: AG (Agricultural) , R-1 (Single-family Residential), R-2 (Single-family Residential), R-3 (Single-family Residential) and R-4 (Single-family Residential).

Where can I find the Short Term Rental Ordinance?

The complete ordinance can be found at the end of this guidebook, or you can find it online on Fairburn’s website: www.fairburn.com.

How do I register my short term rental?

Your first step will be to meet with the Planning and Zoning Office to obtain a short term rental affidavit for your property. The next step will be to set up a site inspection with the Building Official and Fire Marshall. Finally, you will apply for your STR permit and occupational tax license.

How many people can rent my home at one time?

The number of people who can rent your home, or occupancy, will be set by the Building Official. The occupancy rate shall be limited to two (2) adults per bedroom plus an additional three (3) adults for the short term rental property. The occupancy rate only applies to short term rentals. The bedroom(s) shall be inspected by Building Official prior to issuance of the issuance of the short term rental permit.

What is the role of the Local Contact Person?

Each owner of a short term rental is required to designate a Local Contact Person (must be age 25 or older) who has access and authority to assume management of the property. The Local Contact Person is the primary liaison between the city officials, including code and law enforcement, and will be required to provide their contact information. Local Contact Persons are required to respond to violation notifications 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and within two (2) hour of being notified of a complaint.

Does the Owner have to be the Local Contact Person?

No, owners may retain a managing agent, managing agency, operator or representative to serve as the Local Contact Person. However, the owner is ultimately responsible for compliance with all the requirements of the law governing short term rentals.

What if the Local Contact Person changes?

No problem. Notify the City of Fairburn Occupational Tax License Office in writing immediately upon a change in the contact information for the Local Contact Person.

What about parking?

No vehicles of any type shall be parked on the City right of way or along any roadways at any time. Vehicles shall be parked on designated hard surface areas including gravel, concrete and asphalt; no parking on the grass or dirt. Parking in enclosed garages is permitted. A breach of these parking requirements may result in a violation under the ordinance.

What about neighbor complaints?

A notice from the STR owner must be mailed to the closest ten (10) surrounding property owners that are located on both sides, directly to the rear, and directly across the public right-of-way of the STR property to inform the property owners of the STR. This letter will include the name and contact information for the Local Contact Person and the 24 hour hotline that citizens can call to report a complaint. The hotline will document the complaint and contact the Local Contact Person to help resolve the concern. If the complaint is not resolved within two (2) hours of being notified the short term rental may be issued a violation.

What are the consequences for a violation of the code?

Judicial penalties for violations cited by the City of Fairburn are outlined in detail in the STR Ordinance and include citations issued in any twelve month period: 1st violation = $250 fine; 2nd violation = $500 fine; 3rd violation = $1,000 fine and revocation of the business license for 24 months.

What happens if I don’t register my property?

Residences found to be in non-compliance with the regulations will be issued a citation that is subject to a judicial penalty of $500 with the fine compounding daily for every day the property is marketed or rented after the citation.

Taxes

How can I change the mailing address on my City of Fairburn property tax bill for future years?

Property tax records are maintained by the Fulton County Tax Assessor's Office. To permanently change your mailing address you must submit a written request to the Board of Tax Assessors. This may be done by mail, fax, or in person. The fax number is 404-893-6626. The mailing address is 235 Peachtree Street, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30303. You may also visit one of the following convenient locations: South Service Center 5600 Stonewall Tell Road College Park, GA 30349 North Service Center 7741 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30350 Alpharetta Service Center 3155 Royal Drive, Suite 175 Alpharetta, GA 30022.

When are tax bills mailed and when are they due?

City of Fairburn property tax bills are mailed at the end of October of each year. Payment must be received on or before the due date of December 15 to avoid penalty and interest. Payments can be made in person or mailed to Fairburn City Hall, 56 Malone Street, Fairburn, GA 30213.

What if my property is under appeal?

If your property presently is under appeal you will receive a temporary tax bill with a value set at the higher of the taxpayer return value or 85% of the proposed value set by the Board of Tax Assessors. This bill must be paid by the due date in order to avoid interest, penalty, collection fees, and tax lien. A refund or an adjusted bill will be provided after the appeal is settled.

What additional fees are charged due to non-payment or late payment?

All taxes remaining unpaid after the city and county due dates are delinquent and are subject to interest and penalties. Interest accrues on the day after the due date and each following month thereafter. The interest rate as of July 1, 2016 changed to "an annual rate equal to the bank prime loan rate as posited by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System in statistical release H.15 or any publication that may supersede it, plus 3% to accrue monthly." Interest accrued prior to July 1, 2016 will remain at one (1%) per month.

The penalty schedule also changed on July 1, 2016 as follows:

  1. Within 120 days after the due date, then a first penalty of 5% of the amount the tax due and unpaid is assessed;
  2. After 120 days of the date of imposition of the first penalty, a second penalty of 5% of any tax amount remaining due is imposed;
  3. After 120 days of the dates of imposition of the second penalty, a third penalty of the 5% of any tax amount remaining due is imposed; and
  4. After 120 days of the date of imposition of the third penalty, a fourth penalty of 5% of any tax amount remaining due is imposed.

What is this year's millage rate?

The 2019 millage rate is 9.73 mills and is comprised of 8.1 mills for M&O and 1.63 mills for G.O. Bonds.

Who should I contact with questions about the payment of City Taxes, Homestead Exemptions or requests for a copy of a Tax bill?

Please contact Stephanie Gibson Property Tax / Sr.Accountant City of Fairburn 770-964-2244 Ext. 113

Utilities FAQs

Who do I call when my electric power is out?

Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm., call the City of Fairburn Utilities at 770-969-3481. After-hours, please contact 770-854-0110 to report any power outages.

How do I apply for new service?

Please visit City Hall at 56 Malone Street S.W. Fairburn, GA 30213 to start a new service or make payments on your account. Learn more and access the: 

 

What should I do during a power outage?

After reporting the outage to the Utility Department at 770-969-3481 during business hours or the after-hours number at 770-854-0110, unplug all non-essential appliances. Also, keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed. Continually opening and closing these doors will result in faster loss of cold air.

Can I make utility payments with a credit card?

Yes, credit card payments are accepted with Visa, Mastercard, Discover, PayPal, and American Express. Pay utility bills online here.

Who is responsible for the repair to the water and sewer lines coming into my house?

The City maintains the water lines in the street up to the curb box. The curb box is the shut off valve located near the sidewalk or street. The property owner is responsible for water lateral repairs from the curb box to the house. The water meter is maintained by the City. The City maintains the sewer mains in the street. The property owner is responsible for repairs to the sewer from its connection to the main into the house.

How can I request a new container?

To request a new container please contact 770-969-3481