Clayton County Commissioners Approve Temporary Restrictions on Seven Business Categories

CLAYTON COUNTY, GA — Business owners, entrepreneurs, and commercial property developers considering new projects in unincorporated Clayton County will face additional restrictions following two decisions by the Clayton County Board of Commissioners.

During its November 3, 2026, regular business meeting, commissioners approved two resolutions establishing temporary moratoriums on applications involving several categories of businesses.

The measures affect seven types of commercial establishments and are part of the county’s ongoing review of land-use regulations.

Which Businesses Are Affected?

Under Resolution 2026-260, the county approved a temporary moratorium affecting applications related to the establishment or expansion of:

• Small-box discount variety stores

• Car washes

• Tire shops

• Automotive repair shops

• Storage units

A separate measure, Resolution 2026-261, establishes similar restrictions for barber shops and beauty supply stores.

Both resolutions were introduced by District 1 Commissioner Alaina Reaves.

How Long Will the Restrictions Last?

According to the county’s official Planning & Zoning Department, both moratoriums will remain in place until Clayton County adopts revisions to its code governing the affected business categories or until 180 days have elapsed, whichever occurs first.

The restrictions apply specifically to unincorporated Clayton County, not automatically to businesses within the incorporated municipalities of Forest Park, Jonesboro, Riverdale, Morrow, Lake City, Lovejoy, or College Park.

The county’s published notices describe restrictions on accepting applications for establishing or expanding affected businesses. They do not announce the closure of existing businesses.

What Does This Mean for Local Business Development?

The decisions could influence future commercial development along several of Clayton County’s major business corridors.

For entrepreneurs planning to open barber shops, beauty supply stores, automotive service businesses, or other affected establishments, the restrictions introduce another consideration when evaluating potential locations.

Commercial property owners and developers may also need to reconsider proposed uses of vacant retail spaces and undeveloped properties.

The moratoriums come as Clayton County continues examining land-use policies and development standards across multiple business categories.

Where Residents and Business Owners Can Learn More

Residents, prospective business owners, and commercial developers can review the county’s official notices through the Clayton County Planning & Zoning Department⁠.

The November 3 meeting agenda and supporting documents are also summarized by OpenGeorgia⁠. That source describes the proposals as agenda items; the county’s official website independently confirms their subsequent approval.

For questions about whether a particular property or proposed business is affected, contact Clayton County Community & Economic Development at 770-477-3569.

Best of Clayton County continues to follow local government decisions, economic development, and community changes affecting residents and businesses throughout Clayton County.