Sandy Springs, GA Building Permits: Review Times, Process and Costs
Sandy Springs, GA building permit timeline: Plan review takes 5 to 10 days depending on project type. Contact the building department for current processing times.
Building permit review in Sandy Springs, GA typically takes between 5 and 10 days depending on project type and complexity. This page covers review timelines, required permits, costs, and how to speed up the process.
Sandy Springs Plan Review Timeline
- Time to review first submittal: Each round of Plan Review may take anywhere from 3 to 10 business days, depending on the complexity of your project.
- Time to review subsequent submittals: Each resubmission of construction drawings will initiate a new round of Plan Review, also taking 3 to 10 business days per review.
- Additional time-related details: After approval by all applicable Review Teams, it can take up to 5 business days for the City to stamp the approved construction drawings and issue a Permit Card. For commercial construction, the Fire Marshal's Office plan review usually takes three to five business days.
- Special note: A resubmittal fee of $200 is assessed upon the third resubmission.
- Inspection and documentation: The stamped construction drawings, Permit Card, and Noise Ordinance must be made available on-site for the duration of construction. The Inspections division verifies compliance at project milestones.
If commercial projects require Fire Marshal review, that adds an additional layer and time frame to the process.
Last verified: June 2025 | Source: Sandy Springs Building Department
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What Building Permits Do You Need in Sandy Springs?
Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs Permit Review Process Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Submit your permit application through the Sandy Springs 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.
Sandy Springs Building Permit Costs
Permit fees in Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs building department or Permit Place for exact costs.
Sandy Springs Building Department
Sandy Springs Building Department
- Website: www.sandyspringsga.gov/building-and-construction
- City Website: www.sandyspringsga.gov
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandy Springs Building Permits
How long does it take to get a building permit in Sandy Springs?
Plan review in Sandy Springs, GA takes 5 to 10 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.
What is the difference between residential and commercial permit review in Sandy Springs?
Commercial projects in Sandy Springs require review by multiple departments (building, fire, public works, and sometimes health), which adds time. Residential projects typically involve fewer review disciplines and can be processed faster. Tenant improvements fall between the two depending on scope.
Can I speed up the permit process in Sandy Springs?
The most effective way to speed up the permit process in Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs?
Yes. Most interior buildouts in Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs?
Permit fees in Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs project?
Yes. Permit Place expedites building permits in Sandy Springs 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 Sandy Springs, GA?
Most construction in Sandy Springs 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.
Need Help With Sandy Springs Building Permits?
Permit Place has helped hundreds of businesses get permits in Sandy Springs and across Georgia. We handle everything from application to approval so you can focus on building.
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