Georgia Water/Laws/Safe Dams Act of 1978
Georgia Safe Dams Act of 1978, O.C.G.A. §§ 12-5-370 to 385
General Description[edit | edit source]
This Act provides for the regulation and inspection of dams. The Director of EPD has the responsibility for ensuring that all dams are designed by a competent engineer, approving plans for inspection and maintenance, and otherwise monitoring the condition of the dam.
Permitting[edit | edit source]
Anyone wishing to construct a dam must obtain a permit from EPD. Permission is also required before removing a dam. Dams receiving federal funds or under federal regulation are not governed by this act. Small artificial barriers, less than six feet high are also outside the act.
Dam Classification[edit | edit source]
Dams are classified into two categories. Category I is where improper operation or dam failure would probably cause loss of human life. Category II is where dam failure would be unlikely to cause deaths. Category I dams are monitored more closely by EPD.