Atlanta Remodel & Renovation Permitting Guide

Everything Atlanta homeowners need to know about building permits in 2025

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$1450+ Minimum Permit Fee
1-96 Days Processing Time
100% AWR *ALWAYS* Requires a Permit
Prices Vary Permit Prices Vary per Project
Permit Requirements
Costs & Timelines
The Process
Why It Matters
FAQs

When You Need a Permit in Atlanta

Understanding Atlanta's permit requirements protects you from costly mistakes. The City of Atlanta requires permits for most structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.

⚠️ Important Update for 2025: Starting June 25, 2025, any project potentially impacting trees requires an arborist meeting BEFORE permit submission. Applications without this documentation will be automatically rejected.

Projects That ALWAYS Require Permits

Project Type Permit Required Minimum Fee
Deck Construction (attached or >30" high or >200 sq ft) YES $1450+
Kitchen Remodeling (with electrical/plumbing changes) YES $1450+
Bathroom Remodeling (structural or utility changes) YES $1450+
Basement Finishing YES $1450+
Home Additions YES $1450+
Garage Construction YES $1450+
Siding Installation YES $1450+
Concrete Patios YES $1450+
Sunrooms YES $1450+

Projects That DON'T Require Permits

Cosmetic Updates

  • Painting and wallpaper
  • Flooring installation
  • Cabinet replacement (no utility changes)
  • Countertop installation
  • Trim work and molding

Minor Repairs

  • Faucet replacement
  • Light switch changes
  • Minor exterior renovations
  • Freestanding decks <200 sq ft

Permit Costs and Processing Times

All Weather Renovations calculates permit fees start at $1,450 for projects under $100,000, $1,750 for projects between $100,000-$150,000, and $2,000 for projects between $150,000 and $200,000, with minimum fees varying by project type.

2025 Atlanta Permit Fee Structure

Fee Category Cost
Building Permit Minimum $250 minimum
Electrical Permit $250 minimum
Plumbing Permit $250 minimum
Mechanical/HVAC Permit $250 minimum
Deck Permit $1450 minimum
Pool Permit $1450 minimum

Processing Timelines

Submission Type Processing Time Additional Details
Online Standard 21-35 business days Most residential projects
Walk-in Applications 1-30 business days Some counties prefer walk-in
Historic Districts 42-96 business days Varies by district
⚠️ All Weather Renovations Alert: All Weather Renovations will never begin a project without a permit. A permit is required for almost all of our remodeling or renovations projects.

The Permit Process: Step by Step

At All Weather Renovations, we handle the entire permit process for you. Here's what happens behind the scenes:

Required Documents

📋 For All Projects

  • Proof of property ownership
  • Completed application form
  • Construction drawings/plans
  • Contractor's physical license card
  • Site plan

📐 Additional for Major Work

  • Survey by GA-registered surveyor
  • Energy compliance documentation
  • Structural calculations
  • Arborist meeting record (after June 2025)
  • HOA approval (if applicable)

The 7-Step Process

  1. Pre-Application Research: We verify all requirements for your specific project and location
  2. Document Preparation: Our team prepares detailed plans and gathers required documentation
  3. Online Submission: We submit through Atlanta's portal at permits.atlantaga.gov
  4. Review Period: City reviews application (View our detailed permit costs and timelines)
  5. Permit Issuance: Once approved, we display permit at job site
  6. Inspections: We schedule required inspections at each phase
  7. Final Approval: Pass final inspection for project completion

Why Proper Permits Matter

Permits ensure that projects are completed within certain standards - and that they're built right, and built to last.

🚨 Real Consequences of Unpermitted Work: The city government requires permits for almost all projects. All Weather Renovations could lose their GC license if we did not use permits on work where it is required to do so.

Benefits of Permits

Property Value Protection

  • Permitted work adds documented value
  • Full square footage counts in appraisals
  • Faster, smoother home sales
  • Buyers gain confidence in your home
  • Lenders can approve financing without issues

Insurance Coverage Maintained

  • Claims processed without complications
  • Policy remains valid and enforceable
  • Full coverage for your investment
  • No disputes over unpermitted work
  • Peace of mind during storms and damage

Quality & Safety Assurance

  • Code-compliant work built to last
  • Professional inspections verify quality
  • Structural safety confirmed
  • Electrical and plumbing meet standards
  • Documentation protects future buyers

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions Atlanta homeowners ask about building permits:

Do I need a permit to build a deck in Atlanta? +

You need a permit if your deck is: attached to your home, or exceeds 200 square feet. Freestanding decks under 200 sq ft typically don't need permits. Deck permits start at $1450.

What happens if I remodel without a permit? +

All Weather Renovations will NEVER remodel without a permit, for almost ALL of our projects. We could lose our General Contractors license, and face massive fines. AWR uses a permit for all projects that require one.

How long does it take to get a permit in Atlanta? +

Online standard permits take 21-35 business days when submitted online. Walk-in application permits may take 1-30 business days. Projects in historic districts or special zones may take 42-96+ business days. We recommend starting the permit process while finalizing project details.

Can I pull my own permits as a homeowner? +

Yes, homeowners can pull their own permits, but you become responsible for ensuring all work meets code, scheduling inspections, and handling any issues. Most homeowners find it worth having their contractor handle permits - we know exactly what's needed and have established relationships with permit offices.

Do kitchen remodels always need permits? +

Permits are required if you're moving plumbing, adding electrical outlets, removing walls, or changing ventilation. Simple cabinet replacements, countertop installations (without moving utilities), and cosmetic updates like painting don't need permits. Most kitchen remodels involve at least some permitted work.

Skip the Permit Headaches - We Handle Everything

Our veteran team knows exactly what permits your project needs. We handle all the paperwork, submissions, and inspections so you can focus on enjoying your newly renovated home.

Licensed & Insured • Serving Atlanta Since 2019

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