What is the Permit Shot Clock under SB 447?
Georgia Senate Bill 447, signed into law on May 11, 2026, introduces a statewide permit shot clock, a defined timeline for reviewing and approving applications.
The goal is faster decisions, greater transparency, and more predictable outcomes.
The reality is that local governments are now on the clock for every permit.
Why the Shot Clock matters
The permit shot clock fundamentally changes how agencies operate.
Permitting is no longer flexible. It is time-bound and enforceable.
If your agency misses a deadline:
- Permits may be automatically approved
- Fees may need to be refunded
- Your jurisdiction assumes compliance and legal risk
SB 447 does not just speed up permitting. It introduces real consequences for delays.
How the SB 447 Shot Clock Works
Firm Review Timelines
- 45 days for initial review
- 20 days for resubmittal review
- 14 days for each additional cycle
5-Day Completeness Check
Applications must be reviewed quickly or are treated as accepted and move forward.
Automatic Approval Risk
Miss the clock, and the permit can be approved by law, regardless of internal backlog.
Clear, Code-Based Denials
Every denial must include specific, documented reasons tied to regulation
Real-Time Public Visibility
Applicants must be able to track permit status in real time.
The Challenge: Managing the Shot Clock
For many agencies, the permit shot clock exposes gaps:
- Manual tracking of deadlines
- Disconnected systems across departments
- Limited visibility into review status
- Inconsistent documentation
Under SB 447, these gaps do not just slow you down. They create risk.
How Accela Helps You Stay Ahead of the Shot Clock
Accela gives Georgia agencies the tools to manage the permit shot clock with confidence.
Keep Every Permit on Track
Automated workflows and alerts help ensure every application moves forward on time.
Centralize Permitting Operations
Manage reviews, approvals, inspections, and documentation in one system.
Deliver Real-Time Transparency
Provide live status updates through self-service portals.
Standardize Decisions
Ensure every approval and denial is consistent, documented, and compliant.
Reduce Risk of Automatic Approvals
Gain full visibility into timelines, bottlenecks, and workload so nothing slips through.
Be Ready Before the Clock Starts
SB 447 enforcement begins July 1, 2026.
The permit shot clock is not optional, and it does not pause.
Now is the time to modernize your permitting operations.