Zoning means your city or county allows a dealer or broker business at your location. Georgia's dealer application includes a zoning certification that your local zoning authority must complete. Always ask the office owner whether the space is properly zoned for a broker or dealer office before you rent.
What zoning means
Cities and counties decide which kinds of businesses can operate in which areas. A location can be perfectly nice and still not be zoned for a dealer or broker office.
Why it matters
You need a zoning certification when you complete your dealer license application. It is part of the application, and your local zoning office completes and signs it. If your office is not properly zoned, you cannot get it signed, and your application stalls. Zoning is one of the most common causes of delays.
How to check before you rent
- Ask the person giving you the office: "Is this office properly zoned for a broker or dealer?"
- Look for offices that are already designated for brokers and dealers. They usually include extras such as a landline and a lockable cabinet in the rent.
- Contact the local zoning office before signing a lease if you are unsure.
Why say "broker" to your city or county
A broker license and a dealer license are essentially the same: same authority, same plates. They are just two different names. When you talk to a city or county, using the word broker is often smoother, because the word "dealer" can sometimes get you a harder time. See broker vs dealer.
What else the location needs
Besides zoning, plan for a proper sign with your business name, a public restroom, a working landline phone, a lockable file cabinet, and a desk and chairs. See the lot and office requirements guide.
Amounts and rules change. Confirm current requirements with the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers at (404) 424-9966 before you pay for anything.
Official sources
- Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers (Secretary of State)
- Secretary of State: How-to guide for used motor vehicle dealers
- Georgia Department of Revenue: Dealer registration (dealer license plates)
- GIADA: Pre-license class
Frequently asked questions
What is a zoning certificate for a Georgia dealer license?
It is a zoning certification, included in the dealer application, that your local zoning authority completes to confirm your location is zoned for a dealer or broker business.
When do I need the zoning certification?
When you complete your dealer license application.
How do I know if an office is zoned for a dealer?
Ask the office owner whether it is properly zoned for a broker or dealer, and confirm with your local zoning office if unsure.
Do I need a lot for zoning?
No. A properly zoned broker or dealer office is enough to get a license.
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