The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has designated an area in downtown Douglas as a Revitalizing Underdeveloped Rural Areas Legislation (R.U.R.A.L.) Zone. A map showing the area eligible for R.U.R.A.L. Zone incentives can be found on the city’s website at cityofdouglasga.gov. This designation enables the city to implement the R.U.R.A.L. Zone incentive program, which aims to stimulate investment, create jobs, and promote economic development in the historic downtown area.
Douglas' R.U.R.A.L. Zone designation will be in effect for five years, allowing eligible businesses to start earning tax credits. The program includes three tax incentive options: the job tax credit, an investment credit, and a rehabilitation credit. With three distinct tax incentive options available—Job Tax Credit, Investment Credit, and Rehabilitation Credit—now is the perfect time to invest in our community. Applications will be accepted beginning January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2029.
The process for a business to be approved for the incentives is an easy 4-step process. To apply for the R.U.R.A.L. Zone tax credits, businesses should apply with the City of Douglas Community Development Department located at City Hall, 302 S. Madison Avenue. After the application has been submitted, local officials will certify the business is located in the R.U.R.A.L. Zone and meets all qualifications. Once certified, the city will submit the application to the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for acceptance. Once certified by DCA, a copy is submitted to the applicant, local jurisdiction, and Georgia Department of Revenue. If approved, certification should be attached to the business tax return when the credit is claimed.
A map of the area that is eligible for R.U.R.A.L. Zone incentives is located on the city’s website, link here, https://www.cityofdouglasga.gov/261/RURAL-Zone. Anyone interested in applying for the R.U.R.A.L. Zone tax credits, please contact Georgia Henderson, Community Development Director, 912-383-0277 or email ghenderson@cityofdouglasga.gov.
