How Long Does It Take to Get a Building Permit in Atlanta?

If you’re starting a remodel, addition, pool, or new build in the Atlanta area, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: how long will it take to get the permit approved?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a single answer. Permit timelines vary based on project type, jurisdiction, and how complete your submittal is. Some permits can be issued in a day. Others may take months.

This guide breaks down typical turnaround times across Metro Atlanta, explains the biggest causes of delays, and shows how Permit ATL helps keep your project moving.

Why Timelines Vary

Permit review times depend on:

• Type of project (a deck vs. a new home)

• City or county (each has its own staff, backlog, and processes)

• Completeness of application (missing forms or drawings = instant delays)

• Corrections required (most projects get at least one round of comments)

• Staffing and workload (holidays, board schedules, and staff shortages impact timing)

The more complex the project, the longer the review. But even “simple” projects can stall if the paperwork isn’t right.

Typical Turnaround by Project Type

Trade Permits (Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Gas)

• Timeline: 1–3 business days (sometimes same-day)

• Usually applied for by licensed trade contractors.

• Common for equipment replacements, service upgrades, or small system changes.
  See our Trade Permit guide

Decks, Porches & Small Remodels

• Timeline: 2–4 weeks

• Requires scaled drawings showing structure, dimensions, and code notes.

• Often reviewed by zoning and building officials.
  See our Decks & Porches guide

Pools & Spas

• Timeline: 4–8 weeks

• Requires site plan, drainage/erosion details, and multiple trade permits.

• May trigger additional reviews for stream buffers or zoning variances.
  See our Pool Permits guide

Remodels & Additions

• Timeline: 3–6 weeks

• Depends on whether structural changes are involved.

• Plans must include floor plans, elevations, and details for framing, electrical, and plumbing.
  See our Remodels & Additions guide

New Homes

• Timeline: 6–10 weeks (or longer)

• Typically requires both an LDP (Land Disturbance Permit) and a full building permit.

• Multiple rounds of review across planning, zoning, stormwater, and building departments.
  See our New Homes guide

Land Disturbance Permits (LDPs)

• Timeline: 8–12 weeks

• Required for grading, clearing, or site changes.

• Reviews focus on stormwater, erosion control, and buffers.
  See our LDP guide

Variances & Special Approvals

• Timeline: 2–3 months minimum

• Variances require public notice and a hearing before a board.

• Historic district changes require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA).
  See our Variances guide

Biggest Causes of Delays

1. Incomplete Applications

   • Missing forms, signatures, or plan sheets can stall a project immediately.

2. Inaccurate or Unclear Drawings

   • Jurisdictions often reject plans that don’t clearly show dimensions, code compliance, or site features.

3. Ignoring Zoning Requirements

   • Setback violations, lot coverage overages, or unapproved tree removal trigger corrections.

4. Jurisdiction Backlogs

   • Summer pool season or end-of-year rushes often overwhelm staff.

5. Corrections & Resubmittals

   • Most projects get at least one round of comments. Each cycle can add 1–3 weeks if not handled quickly.

How to Speed Things Up

• Do a Zoning Check First
  Know the rules before designing and avoid surprises on setbacks, buffers, or coverage.
  Purchase a Zoning Check Online

• Get a Plan Pre-Check
  Have a professional review your plans for compliance before submitting.
  Purchase Plan Review Pre-Check

• Submit Complete Packages
  Include all required forms, drawings, and supporting documents.

• Respond Quickly to Comments
  Corrections are inevitable and fast resubmittals keep the clock moving.

• Use a Permit Expediter
  Someone who knows the system can track your permit, push updates, and resolve issues faster.

How Permit ATL Helps

We specialize in navigating Atlanta’s permit maze. Our services include:

• Preparing complete submittals

• Reviewing plans before submission to catch errors

• Coordinating with city reviewers

• Handling corrections and resubmittals

• Tracking permits until approval

For straightforward services like zoning checks, plan pre-checks, or inspections, you can purchase online and we’ll deliver within days.

Final Takeaway

Building permits in Atlanta can take anywhere from a few days to several months. The key factors are project type, jurisdiction, and completeness of your application.

With Permit ATL, you don’t have to wonder where your permit stands. We prepare, track, and manage the process so you can focus on the project itself.