Georgia 2025-2026 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB318

Introduced
2/6/25  

Caption

Appeal and error; appeal of superior court decisions on zoning decisions of counties and municipal corporations; provide

Impact

The bill repeals existing provisions that allow administrative officers and quasi-judicial boards to exercise certain zoning powers, consolidating this authority instead under defined judicial processes. By revising the definition and scope of zoning decisions, the bill effectively centralizes appeals to higher courts while potentially streamlining local governance by reducing bureaucratic layers. Stakeholders may find this change beneficial as it offers a structured approach to contest zoning decisions, contributing to an enhanced transparency and accountability framework within local governments.

Summary

House Bill 318 aims to amend existing zoning laws in the state of Georgia, particularly focusing on the appeal process pertaining to decisions made by local governments regarding zoning. The bill proposes that decisions made by superior courts concerning zoning issues will now be subject to appeal, thereby allowing for judicial review of these local governance decisions. This adjustment is intended to provide clearer avenues for citizens and stakeholders to contest zoning rulings that may affect their property rights or community dynamics.

Contention

However, there are notable points of contention surrounding HB318. Critics express concerns that shifting zoning appeals exclusively to the judicial system may overwhelm the court system and could lead to delays in addressing urgent local zoning matters. Furthermore, the removal of administrative and quasi-judicial authority is seen by some as a risk to local municipal control and flexibility in managing land use decisions, potentially limiting their responsiveness to the unique needs of their communities. As local governments adjust to these modified powers, the practical implications of this bill will necessitate careful monitoring and evaluation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB126

Appeal and error; judgments deemed directly appealable; change a provision

GA SB450

Courts; property, and wills, trusts, and administration of estates; neither superior court nor a state court shall have appellate jurisdiction pursuant to Chapter 3 of Title 5; clarify

GA HB186

Appeal and error; filing of petitions for review in reviewing courts from lower judicatories; revise an exception

GA SB499

Coordinated and Comprehensive Planning and Service Delivery by Counties and Municipalities; revise provisions

GA HB208

Appeal and error; evidence has been lost or destroyed by the state; provide for remedies

GA SB66

Superior Courts; Atlantic Judicial Circuit; additional judge; provide

GA SB347

Tallapoosa Judicial Circuit; additional judge of the superior courts; provide

GA HB77

Dougherty Judicial Circuit; superior court; provide for a fourth judge

GA HB1267

Georgia Tax Court Act of 2025; enact

GA SB161

Counties and Municipal Corporations; cyber attacks directed at contractors and suppliers by requiring certain provisions in county and municipal contracts; ensure counties and municipalities are protected

Similar Bills

CA AB1521

Committee on Judiciary: judiciary omnibus.

CA SB616

Enforcement of money judgments: exemptions.

CA AB2837

Civil actions: enforcement of money judgments.

CA AB774

Civil actions: enforcement of judgments.

CA AB3283

Enforcement of judgments: claims of exemption.

CA SB1200

Enforcement of judgments: renewal and interest.

CA SB454

Child support: enforcement.

CA SB1477

Enforcement of judgments: wage garnishment.