What it is

DeKalb County Georgia eliminated its Homeowner Electrical Affidavit process as of January 2025, now requiring all electrical work requiring permits (including EV charger installations with new circuits and panel modifications) be performed by state-licensed electrical contractors under O.C.G.A. Title 43 Chapter 14.

Why it matters

County-level interpretation of state contractor licensing laws creates inconsistent permitting requirements across jurisdictions (neighboring Fulton and Fayette counties still allow affidavits). Electrical contractors gain mandated market share for residential EV charger installs, while homeowners face mandatory labor costs ($1300+ quoted for single charger install). This AHJ friction point affects permit pathway decisions and installer scheduling in electrification rollout.

Evidence from source:

  • DeKalb County ended Homeowner Electrical Affidavit process January 2025, citing O.C.G.A. Title 43 Chapter 14 state contractor licensing requirements
  • EV charger install with new circuits, panel modifications, 60-amp breakers now requires licensed electrical contractor and permit
  • Neighboring counties (Fulton, Fayette) still offer homeowner affidavit forms online, showing inconsistent enforcement

Open questions

  • Are other Georgia counties following DeKalb’s interpretation or maintaining homeowner affidavit processes?
  • What specific language in O.C.G.A. Title 43 Chapter 14 allows or prohibits this county-level policy change?