Do I need a permit for a water heater replacement in Atlanta, GA?

Yes. Water heater remove-and-replace at a one- or two-family home has its own plumbing permit fee line; water heaters are not on the plumbing exemption list.

Cost

Fee not extracted; see the Office of Buildings fee schedule. Unverified, confirm locally

Fee source: https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning/zoning-development-permitting-services/getting-started-with-our-zd-p-services

Where to apply

City of Atlanta Department of City Planning, Office of Buildings (Accela Citizen portal)

Permitting authority: City of Atlanta Department of City Planning, Office of Buildings. Atlanta exempts repair work valued under $10,000 (for exterior work on Chapter 20 landmark or historic-district properties, only repairs under $2,500). New construction is not a repair. See also: how to apply for a building permit.

Official sources

“How Water Tank - (Remove and Replace (ONLY) for One- & Two-Family Residence”

Source: https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning/zoning-development-permitting-services/getting-started-with-our-zd-p-services

“Repair or replacement of existing bathroom fixtures (sinks, lavatories, bathtubs, showers).”

Source: https://www.atlantaga.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/54714/637834584756400000

Verified: 2026-10-19 · Status: verified · Confidence: medium