The Department of City Planning has moved to a completely electronic process for permit applications and issuance. All permit types must now be submitted online via the Accela Citizen website– except for Express permits, which are only accepted in person. 

To obtain a permit for building a fence (new or replacement without impacting any trees), an application should be submitted to the Department of City Planning, Office of Buildings, Express Permits Division. 

Fence Height – 
 • Required Front Yard – 4’ maximum and 50% or more open (chain link, wrought-iron or picket style fencing). Note: The required front yard is defined by the zoning district’s setback rules and includes not just the front of the property, but also the side areas that fall within the front yard setback distance.   
 • Back and Side Yard – 6’ maximum
Anything higher than the above stated heights requires a variance which can be requested through the Office of Zoning and Development (OZD) with submission of a Variance and Special Exception Consolidated Application. The application can be found HERE.

NOTE: If a property is located in a historic or landmark district, a Certificate of Appropriate is required from the Urban Design Commission or the Office of Design staff. 

The Office of Buildings – Express Permits Division is located at – 
55 Trinity Ave. SW
3rd Floor – Suite 3900
Atlanta, GA 30303
Walk-In Services: Monday – Friday, 8:15 AM – 3:00 PM

If you are applying for a fence permit and wish to submit it electronically, please do so through the standard residential or commercial submission workflow, as applicable. For more information on permitting services, click HERE. 

For status updates on submitted permits, visit the Accela Citizen website. 
 
For additional information, contact the Office of Buildings, Express Permits Division, via email at express-oob@atlantaga.gov or by phone at 404-546-6907.