Building permits are required for most deck projects across Metro Atlanta, and the process is similar whether you're in Fulton, Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Fayette, or Cherokee County — even if the specific office and timeline vary a little.
What Gets Reviewed
Plan review generally checks footing depth and spacing against your soil conditions, ledger board attachment to the house, joist spacing and span for the decking material you're using, railing height and baluster spacing for fall protection, and stair geometry if the deck is elevated. Anything attached to the house or elevated more than a step typically needs engineered plans stamped for your specific design.
Why Skipping It Is a Bad Trade
An unpermitted deck doesn't just risk a stop-work order mid-project — it becomes a disclosure issue at resale. Buyers' inspectors flag unpermitted structural additions, and some lenders and insurers treat them as a liability. What looked like a shortcut during the build can cost more at closing than the permit fee ever would have.
Who Actually Handles the Paperwork
We manage the entire permit process for you at no additional charge — drawings, filing with the correct county or city office, and scheduling every inspection along the way. You never have to make a trip to a permit counter yourself.
Not Sure If Your Project Needs a Permit?
We'll tell you straight during your free on-site estimate.
📞 Call 470-660-4604