O.C.G.A. § 12-7-9 (2019)

(a) Applications for permits shall be submitted in accordance with this chapter and the rules and regulations, ordinances, and resolutions adopted pursuant to this chapter. Such applications shall be accompanied by the applicant’s erosion and sediment control plans and by such supportive data as will affirmatively demonstrate that the land-disturbing activity proposed will be carried out in such a manner that the minimum requirements set forth in Code Section 12-7-6 shall be met. All applications shall contain a certification stating that the plan preparer or the designee thereof visited the site prior to creation of the plan or that such a visit was not required in accordance with rules and regulations established by the board.

(b) No permit shall be issued to any applicant unless the local issuing authority affirmatively determines that the plan embracing such activities meets the requirements of Code Section 12-7-6. All applicable fees shall be paid prior to issuance of the land disturbance permit by the local issuing authority.

(c) Permits shall be issued or denied as soon as practicable after the application therefor has been filed with the local issuing authority, but in any event not later than 45 days thereafter.