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Roofing FAQ

🏠 Do You Need a Permit to Replace Your Roof in Georgia? Here’s What to Know

Replacing your roof is a big investment, and knowing whether you need a permit can save you time, money—and potential headaches. If you’re in Georgia, here’s a helpful guide.

1. It Depends on Your Local Jurisdiction

Georgia has no statewide rule requiring roof‑replacement permits, but local governments do. For instance:

• Atlanta: A complete roof replacement requires a permit, as it falls under the city’s building permit rules. Minor repairs (like replacing a few shingles) usually do not require one

• Roswell: Homeowners must obtain a permit before any significant roof repair or replacement

• Unincorporated Hall County: Re-roofing (stripping old shingles and adding new ones) doesn’t require a permit—unless you’re replacing the decking or doing structural work 

• Paulding County: No permit is required for normal roof or siding replacement—provided no structural elements (sheathing, rafters, trusses) are touched 

✅ Bottom line: Check with your city or county building department about your specific situation.

2. Where the Line Is Drawn: Repairs vs. Structural or Full Replacement

Most jurisdictions draw a clear line between:

• Minor repairs/maintenance (shingle or small-area replacement): often permit exempt.

• Major projects (full tear-off, structural changes, decking replacement, adding weight from new materials): permit required 

For example, replacing decking or structural elements triggers a permit even in counties that otherwise allow shingle re‑roofing without one.

3. Why Permits Matter

Pulling a permit isn’t just red tape—it brings real benefits:

• Code compliance & safety: Ensures work meets local building codes and safety standards.

• Insurance protection: If your roof is damaged later, insurers may deny coverage for unpermitted work 

• Resale benefit: Unpermitted work can delay or block home sales; buyers want documentation 

• Avoid fines: Contractors skipping permits may attract penalties and force a halt to your project 

4. Typical Permit Process & Costs

While specifics vary by city, here’s a general idea:

1. Scope review – Local building department reviews your project.

2. Fee payment – Permits usually cost between $100–$500, depending on roof size and scope 

3. Inspections – May include pre‑ and post‑installation checks.

4. Sign‑off – Once inspections pass, the permit is closed.

Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to pull permits themselves—but contractors often handle it, especially for larger jobs .

5. What Should You Do?

• Call local authorities: Your city or county building department will clarify their rules—even minor details matter.

• Ask your roofer: A licensed contractor will usually know local requirements.

• Get it in writing: If your contractor says “no permit needed,” request documentation stating why (e.g., only shingle replacement).

6. The Risks of Skipping a Permit

Choosing to skip a permit might seem like savings—until it comes with:

• Fines or stop‑work orders

• Voided insurance claims

• Costly retroactive compliance fixes

• Delays or obstacles when selling your home

Final Word

In Georgia, roof replacement permit requirements vary widely:

• Minor shingle repairs are often permit‑free.

• Full replacements, decking/structural work almost always require one.

• Local authority rules take precedence—so always verify before beginning.

Securing a permit is about more than bureaucracy—it protects your investment, keeps you legal, and ensures your roof is done right. A licensed contractor not only brings expertise but often handles permits for you—letting you focus on enjoying a safe, durable roof.