Zoning

What is zoning?

The City of Atlanta is divided into zones or districts that regulate the physical development of the land and limit the uses to which a property may be put. These zoning districts also regulate the height, overall size, and placement of buildings on a lot, the density at which buildings may be constructed, and the number of parking spaces that must accompany each new building.

Zoning Review Process Infographic
Department of City Planning

The Department of City Planning is the organization that is focused on urban design, plan review and permitting, code compliance, community and economic development, and housing policies. The City of Atlanta, through the Department of City Planning (DCP), is responsible for administering the zoning and building codes within the City of Atlanta. These services are offered through three offices: Design, Zoning & Development, and Buildings.

  • The Office of Zoning & Development regulates and approves compliance within zoning districts for items related to land use. This includes the physical development of the land, and limits the uses to which a property may be utilized. These established zoning districts are regulated by ordinances pertaining land use, such as, height, size, and placement of buildings on a lot, the density at which buildings may be constructed, and the number of parking spaces that must accompany each new building.
  • The Office of Design provides guidance rooted in the values of Atlanta City Design and is responsible for regulations and compliance within the city’s historic and landmark districts.
  • The Office of Buildings authorizes activities on the land like construction, tree removal, sign placement, and technical work through the issuance of building permits. This office also conduct inspections and code enforcement.

*Some projects may interact with one or more offices depending on the specific site and scope of work.

The Department of City Planning website outlines additional information regarding the Department.

How do I find out what a property is zoned?

Interested parties can request official documentation of the zoning on a subject parcel through the following processes. If it is determined by the Office of Zoning & Development the current property is non-conforming, applicants will be directed to the non-conforming zoning verification process listed below. A Zoning Verification Letter is official documentation of a property’s current zoning classification issued by the City of Atlanta’s Department of City Planning – Office of Zoning & Development. The letter content will vary depending on the availability of zoning records for the specific property and represents the status of the subject property as of the date the letter is issued. Any subsequent changes to the property, or changes that occurred with no record contained in the city’s file, are not reflected.

  • Make all requests for a zoning verification letters online through the Accela Citizen Access portal, including non-conforming verification letters.
    • Submit requests via Access Citizens Access portal.  Applications can be found under Create – > Create Planning Application -> Select Digital Submission -> Online Planning Application radio button in Accela Citizens Access.  A PLN-ONLINE application number will be generated when submittal is complete.
  • Email: zoningverification@atlantaga.gov

 
If you need assistance with Permitting and Zoning, please contact the Zoning, Development, and Permitting Staff.

Click Here for Additional Zoning Information and FAQ
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