ADU rules in Georgia
Representative cities: Atlanta, Savannah.
ADU permit rule
Permit requiredCase by casecity authority
Fee basis
Atlanta minimum permit cost $150 plus $25 technology fee; total scales with cost of construction. Municipal fees vary.
Typical timeline
Varies
Setback
—
Area threshold
Not size-exempt
Exempt if
Not exempt
Go / no-go
case-by-case
Georgia’s mandatory 2024 IRC with Georgia Amendments (eff. Jan 1, 2026) governs construction; ADUs need a building permit plus local zoning approval. Verify with your city (e.g., Atlanta Office of Buildings).
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to build an ADU in Georgia?
Per Georgia rules, an ADU is "yes" for a permit and the authority is "city". Georgia’s mandatory 2024 IRC with Georgia Amendments (eff. Jan 1, 2026) governs construction; ADUs need a building permit plus local zoning approval. Verify with your city (e.g., Atlanta Office of Buildings). Always confirm with the issuing building department.
How big can an ADU be in Georgia?
Size limits for an ADU in Georgia are set by local zoning — verify with your city building department.
What are the ADU setbacks in Georgia?
Setback rules vary by city in Georgia; confirm with the local planning or building department.
How much does an ADU permit cost in Georgia?
Fee basis: Atlanta minimum permit cost $150 plus $25 technology fee; total scales with cost of construction. Municipal fees vary.