Atlanta Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Atlanta, GA. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
498,715
Total Zone Types
38
Planning Department
City of Atlanta Department of City Planning
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Fulton County
Metro Area
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Alpharetta
Atlanta Zoning System
The Atlanta zoning system includes 38 total zone classifications: 12 residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-2A, R-3, R-3A, and others) and 5 commercial zones (C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4, and others), as well as 4 mixed-use zones (MRC-1, MRC-2, MRC-3) and 3 industrial zones (I-1, I-2, I-MIX). Atlanta's zoning is governed by the Atlanta Code of Ordinances Part 16 (Land Development Code), administered by the City of Atlanta Department of City Planning. Atlanta uses a conventional use-based zoning framework with single-family residential (R-1 through R-5), multifamily residential group (RG), commercial, mixed-use residential commercial (MRC), and industrial districts. Atlanta also has numerous Special Public Interest Districts (SPI) that overlay base zoning in areas like Midtown, Buckhead, Sweet Auburn, West End, and other special districts. Georgia has no statewide ADU law, so Atlanta's ADU regulations are entirely local. Atlanta City Council updated its ADU ordinance in recent years to expand housing options and facilitate infill development. Note: Atlanta city proper covers only parts of Fulton County — portions of Atlanta also extend into DeKalb County. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Atlanta Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Atlanta Building Department (City of Atlanta Department of City Planning — Office of Buildings) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (404) 330-6150 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the City of Atlanta Department of City Planning at (404) 330-6145. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Building Department
City of Atlanta Department of City Planning — Office of Buildings
(404) 330-6150
Visit WebsiteFrequently Asked Questions
Can I build an ADU on my Atlanta property?
Yes. Atlanta allows ADUs on single-family residential lots. The maximum size is 750 sqft or 50% of the primary dwelling floor area, whichever is less. Georgia has no statewide ADU law, so Atlanta's local rules apply. No owner-occupancy requirement. Impact fees (transportation, schools, parks) increase costs compared to some other cities. Permits are obtained through the Atlanta Department of City Planning.
What are Atlanta's tree protection rules?
Atlanta has one of the strongest urban tree protection ordinances in the Southeast. Any tree with a trunk diameter of 6 inches or more (measured at 4.5 feet height) is regulated — you need an Atlanta permit to remove it, even on private residential property. Mitigation (replacement planting or payment to the tree bank) is required for permitted removals. Heritage trees have additional protections. Violating the tree ordinance can result in substantial fines.
What zoning district is my Atlanta property in?
Look up your Atlanta property's zoning at ATLMaps.org (the City of Atlanta GIS portal). Most in-town single-family neighborhoods are R-3, R-4, or R-4A. Dense neighborhoods near MARTA stations may be RG or MRC. The Atlanta Land Development Code (Part 16) governs zoning standards. Atlanta also has numerous Special Public Interest (SPI) overlay districts in areas like Midtown, Buckhead, and Sweet Auburn.
Are short-term rentals (Airbnb) allowed in Atlanta?
Yes, with a Short-Term Rental Certificate ($150/year). Atlanta regulates STRs with occupancy limits (2 guests per bedroom), noise ordinance compliance requirements, and registration mandates. Georgia Power and the state collect Hotel-Motel Tax on STR rentals, which platforms like Airbnb collect and remit. Atlanta has both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied STR frameworks.
Does Atlanta have historic preservation requirements?
Yes. Atlanta's Urban Design Commission (UDC) oversees historic preservation in approximately 22 historic districts including Grant Park, Inman Park, Ansley Park, Cabbagetown, East Atlanta, and others. If your property is a Landmark or Contributing Structure in a historic district, you'll need a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior changes. Check your property's status at the Atlanta UDC website.
Source: Atlanta Code of Ordinances Part 16 — Land Development Code; ADU provisions. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source