Maya Jensen
Office of Health Planning Design and Construction
Design and Construction of Healthcare Facilities
The following information applies to health care facilities, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical treatment centers and nursing homes/skilled nursing facilities:
Construction projects involving renovations, alterations or additions, and new construction projects must be submitted to the Office of Health Planning, Design and Construction Unit, for review and written approval before construction begins. These projects are also subject to review and approval by the State Fire Marshal and any local fire and/or building authorities.
Guidelines for Design and Construction of Hospitals and Outpatient Facilities (including Ambulatory Surgical Treatment Centers)
State rules require that construction projects comply with the current edition of the FGI Guidelines/Code for the design and construction of health care facilities that is accepted by the Department and in force when a project is submitted to the State Architect for review.
The 2026 FGI Code for Planning and Design of Hospitals and the 2026 FGI Code for Planning and Design of Outpatient Settings have been accepted by the Department and will be enforced beginning August 31, 2026.
Guidelines for Design and Construction of Nursing Homes/Skilled Nursing Facilities
State rules require that Nursing Home/Skilled Nursing Facility construction comply with the rules and regulations of the Department’s Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD). Please refer to the links below regarding nursing homes/skilled nursing facilities:
https://dch.georgia.gov/divisionsoffices/hfrd/hfrd-laws-regulations
GA R&R - GAC - Rule 111-8-56 Nursing Homes
GA R&R - GAC - Rule 111-8-56-.18. Physical Plant Standards
In addition to the regulations referenced above, application of the 2026 FGI Code for Planning and Design of Residential Care and Support Settings is encouraged as best practice.
Guides and Forms
Plan Review Guidelines - Updated 10/23/24
Plan Transmittal Form - Updated 05/22/26
Program Narrative Form - Updated 10/23/24
Request for 100% Inspection Form - Updated 10/23/24
Submit all plans and correspondence to: DCH Office of Health Planning, Design and Construction Unit, using the contact information provided below: