Apply for Permits and Provide Fees

Verify the entities that might have to approve your demolition. Obtaining a demolition permit in Georgia might require contacting the following entities:

• State of Georgia
• Municipality
• Neighborhood Planning Unit (NPU)
• Condo or homeowner's association
• Historic preservation board

For each relevant entity, you must apply for a permit and provide fees and bonds, if applicable.

Within the metro Atlanta area, municipalities often require having a registered surveyor or engineer prepare a site plan that indicates the building or house to be demolished, accessory structures, the septic tank (if any), trees to be removed, trees to be protected, erosion control measures and tree save fencing. Often, site plan reviewers will add notations that need to be added to the site plan for approval. Our relationships with our surveyors and engineers allow us to obtain a survey quickly and cost effectively.

When Southern Demolition and Environmental secures a demolition permit for a homeowner, builder or investor, we act as expeditiously as possible to engage the vendors required to make submission of application as seamless as possible. Turnaround times for various permit offices vary. Some permit offices, such as Cobb County, City of Lawrenceville and Fulton County can process demolition permits in as little as one day. Other permit offices, such as City of Sandy Springs, City of East Point, DeKalb County, Athens-Clarke County and City of Atlanta can take substantially more time and have more stringent requirements relative to the demolition permit application.

The City of Atlanta routes demolition applications and site plans through Site Development, in addition to the Planning Department, Arborist and Zoning (thus, the cost for demolition permit has increased). Before Nov 1st, 2009, one could get a demolition permit in one day. Now the turnaround time for approval can be as much as 10 business days - or more. It is important to submit multiple copies of site plans (nine are currently required, but have more prepared to be on the safe side). Also, be aware that the Department of Planning is not open to the public five days a week. Check with their schedule before planning to apply for the permit. They do take appointments, however, and it is recommended to make one in advance, should you seek to speak to a city planner.

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This post is one in a series.


Top 10 Tips for Demolishing a House

1. Allow Time for Permits
2. Find an Insured Demolition Company
3. Research Permits & Regulations
4. Apply for Permits & Provide Fees
5. Hazardous Material Inspections
6. Contact Utilities for Disconnection
7. Submit Paperwork to Georgia Environmental Protection
8. Identify Components for Recycling
9. Contact Erosion Control Company
10. Conduct Pre-Demolition Inspection