Need-to-know guide
Do You Need a Permit to Remodel in Sandy Springs?
Sandy Springs is its own city, so residential building permits for most remodels go through the City of Sandy Springs, not Fulton County. Here is a plain-language overview of what usually needs a permit and how inspections fit into a project schedule.
Work That Usually Needs a Permit
As a rule of thumb, anything structural, anything that adds or moves electrical, plumbing, gas or HVAC, and anything that adds square footage needs a permit. Purely cosmetic work usually does not. Always confirm with the City for your specific project; requirements can change.
- Removing or altering walls, especially load-bearing walls
- Finishing a basement
- Home additions and sunrooms
- New decks and deck replacements
- New or relocated plumbing and electrical
- Kitchen and bath remodels that change layout or systems
Work That Usually Does Not
Painting, replacing flooring, swapping a faucet or light fixture in the same location, and replacing cabinets or countertops without changing plumbing or electrical are typically considered cosmetic. If you are unsure, ask before work begins.
How Permits Affect Your Timeline
Permit review happens before construction starts, and inspections happen at set points during the job, for example before walls are closed up. A good schedule plans for both. During Design & Scope Development we identify which permits your project needs and build that time into the plan.
The City of Sandy Springs publishes current residential permit requirements on its website. We recommend reviewing them, and we handle the application process for the work we perform.
Who Pulls the Remodeling Permit?
For work we perform, we handle the remodeling permit application and schedule the required inspections. Homeowners should still understand the process, because permits affect the schedule and protect the value of the home. Unpermitted work can create problems when you sell, refinance or file an insurance claim.
Before applying, the scope needs to be clear enough to describe the work accurately. That is one reason we finish Design and Scope Development before construction: it gives the City a complete picture and reduces back-and-forth during review.
Sandy Springs Permit FAQ
Who issues residential building permits in Sandy Springs?
The City of Sandy Springs issues residential building permits for properties inside city limits.
Do I need a permit to finish my basement?
Typically yes, especially when framing, electrical or plumbing is added.
Do I need a permit to replace kitchen cabinets?
Replacing cabinets in the same layout is usually cosmetic. Moving plumbing, gas or electrical, or removing walls, usually requires a permit.
Will you pull the permits?
We handle the permit process for the work we perform and schedule the required inspections.
Planning permitted work in Sandy Springs?
Tell us the room, the budget range and the timing. We will follow up to schedule a consultation.