Planning a remodel in Roswell and wondering which permits you actually need? You are not alone. Filing the right permits protects your investment, keeps you on schedule, and helps you avoid costly red tags. In this guide, you will learn which projects require permits in Roswell, what to submit, how long reviews take, and who can pull the permits. Let’s dive in.
Know the rules in Roswell
Roswell’s Community Development Building Division reviews plans, issues permits, and performs inspections for residential remodels. You apply and track everything through the city’s portal and follow Georgia’s state minimum building codes as adopted and amended by the city. You can start with the city’s main Building Permits and Inspections page for permit types and steps.
A key update: Georgia adopted new code elements effective January 1, 2025, including the 2023 National Electrical Code and updated amendments. If you are planning electrical or structural changes, confirm your plans match the 2025 editions now in effect. You can review the state’s adoption notice for details.
- Building Permits & Inspections overview: City of Roswell resource
- 2025 code adoption: Georgia DCA announcement
When a permit is required
Roswell’s “Find Out If a Permit Is Needed” guidance covers common projects. Here are typical cases:
- Additions or new structures. Building permit required.
- Interior remodels with framing, drywall changes, or lighting changes. Building permit required.
- Electrical work such as a new circuit or service change. Electrical permit required; a licensed electrician is typically needed.
- Plumbing work with piping changes or a water heater replacement that alters piping. Plumbing permit required.
- HVAC or furnace/AC replacement. Mechanical permit required. Many small trade jobs are simple to file but still require inspection.
- Decks and screened porches, including new freestanding decks. Building permit required with site plan and structural details. Minor non-structural repairs may be exempt.
- Windows and doors. Most replacements require a permit, whether or not there are structural changes.
- Roofing. Minor patch repairs are usually exempt. Full replacements, structural repairs, or substantial reroofing generally require a permit. Confirm with the Building Division.
- Siding replacement. Permit required.
- Pools and spas. Private pools require permits; public pools involve additional county approvals.
- Driveway enlargements or footprint changes. May require Engineering review. Repairs are usually exempt, but call first.
You can confirm your specific scope using the city’s Building Permits & Inspections page and contact information.
Which permit to file
- Building permits: For additions, major remodels, decks, and pools.
- Trade permits: For electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. These are often separate from the building permit and must be pulled by properly licensed trade contractors or an eligible homeowner.
Apply, upload documents, pay fees, and schedule inspections through the Roswell Permitting & Licensing HUB.
- Permit portal: Roswell Permitting & Licensing HUB
What to submit
Most remodels require these items:
- Application form and scope of work.
- Site plan showing existing and proposed features with setbacks.
- Construction drawings for additions or structural work.
- Contractor information or a property owner affidavit, plus licensed trade details where required.
- Any Fulton County or other agency approvals for pools or land disturbance.
Keep your approved plans, permit card, and inspection records on site in a weather-tight permit box until final sign-off. Some simple trade replacements, like certain HVAC or water heater swaps, may not require full plans, but you still need a permit and inspections.
For current forms and packets, check the city’s Building Permits & Inspections page.
How long review takes
Roswell’s typical plan review timeline for building permits is up to 10 business days. More complex projects or those in the Historic District can take longer, especially if board review is required. Build a little cushion into your schedule.
- Timeline reference: Community Development FAQs
Inspections you must pass
Expect a standard sequence such as foundation, underground, slab, framing or rough trades, insulation, and final. Schedule each inspection through the portal and make sure someone can provide access during business hours. If an inspection fails, you will need to reschedule and may incur re-inspection fees. Inspectors do not accept photo substitutes.
Find the required inspection list and policies on the Building Permits & Inspections page.
Fees and forms
Roswell publishes fee schedules and application packets, including combined packets for decks, additions, and pools. Fees can change and may include technology or re-inspection charges. Always confirm the latest amounts using the city’s fee schedule and packets on the Building Permits & Inspections page.
Who can pull permits
Permits are issued to owners, authorized agents, or contractors. If you are the owner-occupant, you may be eligible to pull your own permit. If you do not live in the home, a licensed contractor typically must apply.
Georgia law also requires state licensing for electrical, plumbing, and conditioned air contractors. Many trade permits must be obtained and the work performed by licensed trades. Do not assume a contractor can handle licensed work without verifying.
- Trade licensing overview: O.C.G.A. 43-14 summary
Best practices:
- Verify licenses and permit history before you hire.
- Track status in the HUB and keep copies of permits and affidavits.
- Require the final Certificate of Completion or Occupancy after the last inspection before making final payment.
Details and certificates are provided through the Building Permits & Inspections page.
Special cases in Roswell
Historic District projects
If your property is in Roswell’s Historic District, exterior changes often need approval from the Historic Preservation Commission before or alongside your building permit. This can add meetings and time, so plan early.
- Design review: Historic Preservation Commission info
Land, trees, and floodplains
Projects with significant grading, tree removal, or work in a floodplain may need separate Engineering approvals, such as grading or land-disturbance permits and tree removal permits. Contact Engineering through the Building Division to confirm requirements.
Driveways, roads, and utilities
Driveway changes that affect the public right-of-way can involve city or state transportation review. Public pools and certain utility connections may require Fulton County or other agency approvals. The Building Division can point you to the correct contacts.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Confirm if a permit is required using the city’s guidance and call if unsure.
- Create your account in the HUB and start your application.
- Gather your site plan, drawings, scope, contractor license info, and any required approvals.
- Plan for at least 10 business days of plan review for building permits.
- Schedule each required inspection. Be ready for access and follow re-inspection procedures if needed.
- Keep approved plans and your permit card on site. Close out with your final certificate.
Plan your remodel with resale in mind
Pulling the right permits and closing them out can protect your home’s value and make future sales smoother. Buyers, appraisers, and insurers look for properly permitted work. If you have questions about which updates add value in your Roswell neighborhood or how to time permits with your move, reach out for guidance.
Ready to map your remodel to your resale goals? Connect with Aretha Langley for a friendly, local strategy session.
FAQs
Do Roswell homeowners need permits to replace windows?
- Yes. Roswell indicates most window and door replacements require a permit, even without structural changes. Confirm details with the Building Division.
How long does Roswell’s permit review take for remodels?
- Plan for up to 10 business days for building permit review. Complex or historic-area projects may take longer.
Can I pull my own permit in Roswell if I live in the home?
- Often yes for owner-occupants, but many trade permits must be pulled and the work performed by Georgia-licensed contractors. Verify eligibility before you apply.
What inspections will my Roswell remodel need?
- Typical inspections include foundation, underground, slab, rough trades, insulation, and final. Each must be scheduled and passed before final approval.
Where do I apply for Roswell remodeling permits?
- Use the Roswell Permitting & Licensing HUB to apply, upload documents, pay fees, and schedule inspections.
