Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $200–$600 Calculated at $7 per $1,000 of value; projects under 200 sq ft and freestanding may be exempt.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at City of Atlanta Department of City Planning, Office of Buildings →

What's Required in Atlanta

  • Building permit required for all decks attached to the house or over 30 inches high
  • Exempt if freestanding, under 200 sq ft, and under 30 inches above grade
  • Structural plans must be certified by an Engineer of Record due to 2026 city policy
  • Guardrails required for any deck surface 30 inches or more above grade
  • Footings must reach a depth determined by the local frost line (typically 12 inches)
  • Tree impact plan mandatory if construction occurs within critical root zones

How to Get a Deck Permit in Atlanta

1

Step 1: Plan Certification

Secure structural plans certified by a licensed Engineer of Record.

2

Step 2: Tree Service Review

Obtain approval from the Arborist Division if working near large trees.

3

Step 3: Portal Application

Submit a 'Residential Building' application through the Atlanta Accela portal.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay valuation-based fees ($7/$1,000) and the $25 technology fee.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Schedule footing, framing, and final structural inspections via the portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, unless it is freestanding, under 200 sq ft, and less than 30 inches high.
Minimum fees start at $175; projects over $10,000 in value increase based on $7 per $1,000 valuation.
Yes, if the deck surface is 30 inches or higher above the adjacent ground.