Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? These FAQs are designed to provide a better understanding of our programs and incentives. They provide basic information with links to more detailed information. If you have a specific question that is not answered in our FAQs then please contact us and one of our staff members will respond to your request.
Enterprise Zones Program Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Enterprise Zone (EZ) program?
The EZ program is a tax exemption vehicle designed to stimulate economic development in depressed areas of the county.
Where are the Enterprise Zones located?
Mostly in South DeKalb in the vicinity of I-20. There are also EZ’s located around Chamblee, Scottdale and Pine Lake. To see a more specific street map, you can access the EZ map at the DeKalb County Website www.co.dekalb.ga.us under Economic Development, or come by the Office of Economic Development for a hard copy.
What kinds of businesses are eligible for an EZ designation?
Commercial service enterprises are eligible to apply for the designation, however, the actual building/premise must be owned by the applicant.
Is there any other criteria I must meet?
Yes. You must either 1) create five new full time ongoing jobs in the Zone, or 2) make improvements on an existing structure such that the improvements made to the structure exceeds the present appraised value of the land (as determined by the DeKalb County Tax Assessor) by a 5:1 ratio.
The jobs and/or investment must be completed prior to submitting an application.
If I own a business, but lease the space, am I eligible for the EZ designation?
No. The exemptions for the ad valorum taxes, and owners pay ad valorum taxes, not lessees.
What are the advantages of having an Enterprise Zone designation?
Starting in the year following the designation, the project will receive 10 years of tax exemptions based on the following schedule:
How do I receive an Enterprise Zone designation?
The process is summarized in the Enterprise Zone illustration guide. Click here to review.
How long does the process take to receive an Enterprise Zone designation?
The length of time to process is determined by the complexity of the application.
Who do I contact for EZ information?
Contact the Office of Economic Development at 404-687-2730.
How much does it cost to apply?
All applications must be accompanied by a certified check for $250.00 made out to DeKalb County Government.
Film & Entertainment Frequently Asked Questions
How can DeKalb save me money?
Our large and experienced crew base, production resources, vast array of locations and largely permit-free shooting policies already make DeKalb a smart economic choice. Now with our new generous financial incentives, potentially upwards to 30 percent, shooting in Georgia will save you even more money!
How do I find a crew?
A good resource is the Georgia Film, Video and Digital Entertainment Sourcebook, our annual directory of local production services and staff. If you can’t find what you are looking for, our office will be happy to assist you.
Do I need a permit in DeKalb?
The Development Authority of DeKalb County Office does not issue filming permits. In general, permits are not required for shooting on private property (beyond the owner’s permission) unless public property is impacted. Some municipalities and state and federal agencies may require permits to shoot at certain locations within their jurisdiction. You can contact the Camera Ready Liaisons or call the appropriate municipality or agency to inquire about rules, restrictions, and permitting for your desired location. You can also check our Film Permit list to see which agencies or municipalities have posted filming guidelines.
Can you help me make a movie?
Our office is not involved in the actual production or funding of films. But we’d be happy to assist you with finding locations, production resources, contact information or whatever information you need to get your project off the ground.
Can my property be used in a movie?
Our office contains a large photo library of locations from around the state. We send these photos out to specific productions based on their location needs. If you would like us to consider your property as a filming location, visit the List Your Property page on our website.
How can I connect with the media?
There are several media networking groups in Georgia. Visit the web sites for Atlanta Film Festival 365 and Georgia Production Partnership (GPP) for starters. Both sites offer bulletin boards where you can read and post messages with other local professionals, along with a calendar of events, workshops, etc.
International Partnerships Frequently Asked Questions
Any tips for visiting other countries?
Do you have resources for exporting?
There are several resources available for new and existing exporters. For a complete list of resources please click here.
How do I finance my exports?
A variety of export finance programs are available for Georgia exporters. Please click here for a complete list of resources, and to determine which services are best for your business.
How many exporters are in GA?
Georgia is home to more than 10,080 exporters, located in 86% of the state’s counties. Georgia companies are active exporters of a variety products and services. For a comprehensive report on Georgia’s top export products and export markets, please click here.
What are the major export markets?
The state of Georgia experienced its fourth consecutive record year in international trade during 2012, exceeding the previous year’s milestones in both imports and exports. With the total value of goods exported from Georgia totaling $35.8 billion in 2012, the state retains its ranking as the nation’s 12th leading U.S. state by dollar value of exports.
What products are ready for export?
The State of Georgia is currently developing a comprehensive list of exporters in Georgia. Their trade services and export directory pages have more updates.