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
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
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
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.