Historic Districts
In city historic and landmark districts such as Grant Park, Inman Park, West End and Cabbagetown, exterior changes go through Urban Design Commission review.
Permits and reviews
Atlanta Deck Permits
Worried a permit will hold up your deck? Know which reviews apply before you build so nothing has to come back down.
Call (470) 427-9259
- When a permit applies
- Historic and tree reviews
- Nearby city rules
When a Deck Needs a Permit
Most new decks in Atlanta need a building permit, and so does structural work on an existing one. Replacing only the surface boards may not, but check before assuming.
Inside city limits, residential permits go through the Office of Buildings. Decks up to 24 by 24 feet built to Georgia's prescriptive deck details can qualify for its Express Lane, an over-the-counter review, at the plan reviewer's discretion.
For help getting a deck built, call the number above. The builder you reach can tell you what your project needs.
Reviews Beyond the Building Permit
Trees
The city updated its tree protection ordinance in 2025. Removing protected trees needs a permit, so plan the deck around large trees where possible.
HOA Rules
Many subdivisions have their own design approval, separate from the city.
Setbacks
How close a deck can be to property lines depends on zoning.
Atlanta Deck Permit Rules in Nearby Cities
Each city runs its own permit office, and the rules differ:
- Sandy Springs: decks more than 6 feet above grade need sealed site plans.
- Brookhaven: deck permits need scaled drawings and DeKalb County easement approval.
- Dunwoody: permits go through Community Development, and trees inside the 75-foot stream buffer need a removal permit.
Unincorporated areas follow county rules.
Not sure what your deck needs? Ask a local builder.
Call (470) 427-9259Permit Questions
Do I need a permit to replace deck boards?
Replacing only the surface boards may not need one, but structural work usually does. Check with the builder or the permit office.
Who applies for the permit?
Ask the builder how they handle it when they quote the job.
What if my house is in a historic district?
Exterior changes in city historic districts go through Urban Design Commission review before the building permit.
What happens if I build without a permit?
Unpermitted work can lead to fines, required changes, or problems when you sell.
Build It Right the First Time
Talk to a builder who knows the permit steps where you live.