How to Open an Assisted Living Facility in Georgia: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting an assisted living facility in Georgia can be a fulfilling and profitable business. With an aging population and a growing demand for care, it’s the right time to get involved—if you’re prepared to meet the state’s strict regulations and operational requirements.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to open a licensed assisted living facility or personal care home in Georgia, from training and inspections to compliance and staffing.

Step 1: Decide Which Type of Facility You’re Opening

In Georgia, there are two types of residential care licenses:

• Personal Care Home (PCH) – For 2 to 24 residents.

• Assisted Living Community (ALC) – For 25 or more residents.

Both provide assistance with daily living activities, but ALCs have additional requirements, such as higher staffing levels and more advanced emergency systems.

📝 Tip: Most small operators begin with a Personal Care Home. It’s easier to manage and less expensive to set up.

Step 2: Complete Administrator Training

To operate an assisted living facility in Georgia, the administrator must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Have a high school diploma or higher (some facilities require associate or bachelor’s degrees)

• Complete a state-approved 40-hour Pre-Licensure course

• Pass a written competency test

• Have relevant experience or training in healthcare or management

Make sure to choose a pre-licensure training provider that is recognized by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH).

Step 3: Find and Prepare a Suitable Property

The property must comply with:

• Local zoning laws

• Fire safety codes

• ADA accessibility standards

• Resident safety and space requirements

You’ll need private or semi-private bedrooms, common living areas, accessible bathrooms, and an emergency evacuation plan.

🔥 Fire and life safety inspections are mandatory before licensing.

Step 4: Submit Your Application to the Georgia DCH

You must apply to the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD) of the Georgia DCH. Your application package must include:

• Completed application form

• Proof of training and administrator qualifications

• Facility floor plans

• Operational policies and procedures

• Staffing plan

• Background checks

Processing time may take several weeks, depending on completeness and inspection availability.

Step 5: Prepare for Inspections

Before receiving your license, your facility must pass:

• Environmental Health Inspection (cleanliness, infection control, kitchen setup)

• Fire Safety Inspection (smoke detectors, alarms, emergency exits)

• Initial Licensing Inspection by HFRD

Inspectors will evaluate the building, records, staffing, and your policies and procedures. It’s essential to be well-organized.

Step 6: Hire and Train Staff

Georgia law requires that you hire qualified staff who are:

• At least 18 years old

• Background-screened

• Trained in CPR, first aid, infection control, and resident care

• Oriented on facility procedures and resident rights

Staff-to-resident ratios depend on the number of residents and the level of care required.

💡 Pro tip: Keep all training documentation in staff files—inspectors will check!

Step 7: Develop Operating Policies and Procedures

Your facility must have written policies for:

• Resident admissions and discharges

• Medication management

• Abuse and neglect prevention

• Emergency procedures

• Staff scheduling and responsibilities

• Fire drills and disaster plans

These documents help ensure safe, consistent care and are required for your licensing approval.

Step 8: Receive Your License and Start Operations

Once you’ve passed all inspections and submitted all required documents, you’ll be issued a license from the DCH. At this point, you can start marketing your facility, admitting residents, and providing services.

 Tips for Success

• Stay Inspection-Ready: Keep documentation updated and complete.

• Network Locally: Build relationships with discharge planners, hospitals, and home health agencies.

• Use a Consultant: Professional help can prevent costly mistakes and delays.

• Join Provider Associations: Stay informed on policy changes and training opportunities.

Opening an assisted living facility in Georgia is a step-by-step process that requires patience, compliance, and attention to detail. But with the right guidance and support, you can build a thriving business that truly makes a difference.

If you’re ready to get started, we can help.