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.

The term “light commercial” generally applies to commercial construction that is not above four stories and less than 10,000 square feet. 

To obtain a light commercial construction permit, stamped and sealed architectural and site plans must be submitted to the Department of City Planning, Office of Buildings. Additional documentation is required based on the type of permit needed. Checklists, detailing requirements for obtaining specific permits, and forms can be found HERE. 

The minimum cost for a permit is $150, plus a $25 technology fee. The permit fee schedule for the City of Atlanta, found in the Code of Ordinances, can be accessed by clicking HERE. The ATL Permit Navigator is a useful tool for determining the types of permits needed for a project and the costs for said permits. 

Listed below are types of projects that are submitted to the Light Commercial Permits Division:    

 • New construction and additions up to three (3) stories and 25,000 square feet

 • Pre-engineered steel buildings less than 50,000 square feet

 • 3 and 4-story townhomes

 • Commercial conversions up to 10,000 square feet

 • Interior alterations (T.I.) up to 10,000 square feet (w/M.E.P. drawings)

 • Retaining walls / Modular block walls

 • Modular trailers / Classroom trailers / Sales trailers

 • White-box (w/M.E.P. drawings)

 • Spec Suite (w/M.E.P. drawings)

 • Interior demolition

 • Paint booth

 • Canopy/Awning addition to existing building

The Office of Buildings, Light Commercial Permits Division is located at –

55 Trinity Ave. SW

3rd Floor – Suite 3900

Atlanta, GA 30303

Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 8:15 AM – 5:00 PM

For status updates on submitted permits, visit the Accela Citizen website. 

For additional information, contact the Office of Buildings, Light Commercial Permits Division via email at lightcommercial-oob@atlantaga.gov or by phone at 404-330-6920.