Getting Legal Help for an Atlanta Building Permit
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Applying for a Building Permit in Atlanta
Need help with your Atlanta Building Permit? Perigon Legal Services can easily provide the expertise you need to approve your building permit.
Author: Stan Faulkner, Founder, Perigon Legal Services, LLC
Mr. Faulkner is an experienced counselor and litigator with 15 years of experience, having held bar licenses in four states (Mo, Il, Ct and Ga). Stan Faulkner uses this experience and focuses his skills in the pursuit of assisting individuals in probate (trust and estate) matters, guardianships and conservatorships, estate planning, business disputes and contract disputes. Published on August 04, 2022.
Whether constructing or adding to new residences, commercial projects, or existing structures, you must follow local guidelines and requirements, such as getting a legal Atlanta building permit.
Applying for a building permit in Atlanta is not as complicated as it seems. The permitting process can be pretty simple if you have the correct information and pay fees on time.
Most online permit applications are straightforward and easy to follow, but the process can become tedious, especially if you don’t know what permit type is needed.
At Perigon Legal Services, we understand that there are many factors to consider when applying for a building permit in Atlanta. We accept the challenge of helping you through the application process.
Our team of experienced attorneys has extensive knowledge and experience in Atlanta building permit regulations and can help you through each step of the process.
We will work with you to determine the best type of building permit for your project, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed correctly and on time.
City of Atlanta Permits and Inspections
The purpose of building permits is to protect public safety, welfare, and the environment. Additionally, they provide a record of the work performed on a building.
Permits are typically required for projects that modify a building’s structure, use, or pose a risk of unsafe working conditions. Therefore, you need a permit if you are building a new structure, demolishing an existing structure, or altering an existing property. Before beginning all work affecting the exterior walls, roof, or foundation, permits are required.
Furthermore, sheds, fences, decks, porches, windows, roofs, solar panels, and signs require a building permit in the City of Atlanta. A permit is also required for tree removal, subdivisions, work in historical or special districts, and changes to occupancy or use.
A building permit is not required for basic repairs such as interior remodeling, including replacing kitchen fixtures, repaving a driveway, painting your property, electrical work, or installing cabinets or floor coverings.
If you are unsure whether your improvements will be covered or require a permit, consider discussing the issue with a local law office.
How to Get an Atlanta Building Permit
The City of Atlanta issues building permits for new construction and alterations to existing buildings.
You must contact your local zoning department and request a building permit application. You will then need to complete the application and upload documents, fees, and plans for your building project. A building license application also requires a Contractor License Affidavit containing information such as the contractor’s ID, state license, and business license.
Once you have submitted everything, your application will be reviewed by your local zoning department. If the plan reviewers approve, they will then issue you a building permit that will allow you to start construction on your project.
It is important to note that some work does not require a permit but may require approval from the Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD). A knowledgeable attorney can provide additional information.
Atlanta Building Permit Requirements
The building permit process can be long and complicated. Knowing what is required for a building permit before you start is vital and can help you save time and money.
The process of obtaining a building permit varies by location, but some general requirements are common to most cities and counties. The first step is to submit an application and pay the appropriate fee.
This application will include your name, address, contact information, and the property address where you want to build your home or business. You will also need to provide all of the necessary drawings and plans for your project, including:
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Site plans
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Foundation plans
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Floor plans
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Elevation drawings
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Roof layout drawings
Ensure that you provide any other drawings required by your jurisdiction’s regulations.
If you are building or adding to a business structure, you may require the legal services of a commercial property attorney.
Estimated City of Atlanta Building Permit Fees
One of the most common questions is how much a building permit costs in Atlanta. The answer to this question is not as simple as you may think. The building permit price depends on many factors, including the size and type of construction, the location, and whether it will be a commercial or residential property.
There are different types of permits for different types of constructions. A general construction activity permit costs less than an electrical permit and more than a plumbing permit.
In addition, some permits require that your request inspections before they can be issued, which will also increase the cost. Case-by-case circumstances may lead to an increase in the cost of a building permit.
No permit fees are required for a building in an area that does not require zoning approval. If you want professional help, consider getting advice and information from a skilled attorney from a local law firm.
In Atlanta, How Long Does It Take to Obtain a Building Permit?
Once you submit your application and supporting documents to the Department of City Planning, the department will review your application and plans before approving or denying them.
The entire review process typically takes two weeks. If your application is approved, you’ll receive an email from the department confirming that they have received it and that you are now eligible for construction on-site.
Should You Hire an Attorney to Deal With Building Permits in Atlanta?
It is a fact that the building permit process can be confusing and complicated. That is why many people hire a trustworthy real estate attorney to help them with the process.
A lot of people are not aware of this, and they end up wasting time and money on the process. But with an attorney, you will not have to worry about that. The attorney will take care of everything for you and save you from spending too much time on it.
Allow Perigon Legal Services to do the heavy lifting for you. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
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