Atlanta, GA Building Permits: Review Times, Process and Costs
Atlanta, GA building permit timeline: Initial plan review takes approximately 5 days. Contact the building department for current processing times.
Building permit review in Atlanta, GA takes approximately 5 days for initial plan review. Here is what you need to know about permit timelines, costs, and the review process in Atlanta.
Atlanta Plan Review Timeline
The City of Atlanta has an efficient permitting system, so long as your plan submittals is properly packaged.
The City pulls a report in the morning for all new (ACA Pending) submittals. The intake process can take anywhere from 24-48 hours.
The time to get the initial plan review will depend on the plans that are submitted. If the individual finds a deficiency in your plans, you will be notified to upload revised plans to address their comment(s).
Once satisfied, the deposit fees are assessed. When the fees are paid, the City will route the plans to the necessary reviewers. The reviewers have a 10 business day window, though they may get their initial review done beforehand.
Any revisions requested by the reviewers will add time. When the revisions are submitted, the plan reviewers will have 5 business days for the revisions.
Once all reviews are approved, the final fees will be assessed, usually 24-48 hours after the final review. The permit will be ready to issue, where we check for contractor documentation and final fee payment – usually 24-48 hours, depending on the time the issuance list is pulled.
If your project is a new construction, a Land Disturbance (LD) permit may be needed. This will amplify the timeline, as the LD will need to be issued prior to the building permit. Additionally, if there is an existing structure on the property, then a Demo permit may be required prior to LD issuance. If the LD is needed, the new build permit can only be submitted once the Water Services Review has been completed and there are less than three (3) reviews remaining on the LD.
If your project is in a Historic or Special Public Interest district, then prior approval will be needed from the Office of Zoning and Development prior to Building/Demo/LD submittal. Zoning can be verified using Atlanta’s GIS website.
Last verified: August 2025 | Source: Atlanta Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Atlanta?
Atlanta requires permits for most construction activity. The type of permit depends on your project scope.
Commercial Permits
- New commercial construction: full plan review with the longest timeline
- Tenant improvements and interior buildouts: plan review for structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical changes
- Change of use: required when converting building use (for example, retail to restaurant)
- Shell and core: separate from tenant improvement permits
Residential Permits
- New home construction: full plan review including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
- Additions and remodels: required when modifying structure or adding square footage
- Decks, pools, fences: separate permits with typically faster review
Trade Permits
Individual trade permits are typically required for electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC), and fire sprinkler work.
How the Atlanta Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Atlanta building department. Applications are reviewed for completeness before being assigned to a plan reviewer.
Step 2: Plan Review
The city reviews your submitted plans for building code compliance, structural integrity, fire safety, energy code, and ADA accessibility. Commercial projects are reviewed by multiple departments at the same time.
Step 3: Corrections and Resubmittal
If the city issues correction comments, you will need to revise your plans and resubmit. Each correction cycle adds another review period. Most commercial projects go through 2 to 3 correction cycles.
Step 4: Permit Issuance
Once all review departments approve your plans, the building permit is issued. Schedule inspections as work progresses.
Note: These timelines reflect general review periods. Large or complex projects may take longer. Request a quote from Permit Place for a project-specific estimate, or get an instant due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Atlanta Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Atlanta vary based on project type and valuation.
Commercial
- Tenant improvements: $500 to $5,000+
- New commercial construction: $2,000 to $25,000+ (based on valuation)
- Plan review fee: typically 50-65% of the building permit fee
Residential
- Small projects (decks, pools, fences): $50 to $300
- Home additions and remodels: $200 to $2,000+
- New home construction: $1,000 to $10,000+ (based on valuation)
For a detailed permit cost breakdown specific to your project, get a free due diligence report from PermitNow.io.
Trade Permits
- Electrical: $50 to $500
- Plumbing: $50 to $500
- Mechanical: $50 to $500
Fee ranges are estimates. Actual fees depend on project valuation and scope. Contact the Atlanta building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Atlanta Building Department
Atlanta Building Department
- Website: www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning/office-of-buildings
- City Website: www.atlantaga.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Atlanta?
Plan review in Atlanta, GA takes approximately 5 days for the initial review cycle. Projects that receive correction comments will need additional review cycles, each adding time to the total. Most commercial projects go through at least two review cycles before approval.
Can I speed up the permit process in Atlanta?
The most effective way to speed up the permit process in Atlanta is to submit complete, code-compliant plans on the first attempt. This reduces correction cycles, which are the primary cause of delays. Permit Place helps ensure your application is complete before submission.
Do I need a permit for a tenant improvement in Atlanta?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Atlanta that involve structural changes, electrical work, plumbing, or HVAC modifications require a building permit. Simple cosmetic changes (paint, flooring, non-structural work) typically do not require a permit.
How much does a building permit cost in Atlanta?
Permit fees in Atlanta are calculated based on project valuation and type. Commercial projects typically pay $500 to $25,000+ in total permit and plan review fees. The exact cost depends on project scope, square footage, and any additional trade permits required.
Can a permit expediter help with my Atlanta project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Atlanta and 600+ other jurisdictions. We handle everything from application preparation through plan review, corrections, and permit issuance. Our clients typically get permits faster because we submit complete applications that reduce correction cycles.
What building permits do I need in Atlanta, GA?
Most construction in Atlanta requires a building permit. This includes new construction, tenant improvements, change of use, additions, and major renovations. Separate trade permits for electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and fire protection are also typically required. For a project-specific permit requirements report, use PermitNow.io.
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