Rules for Home Additions in Inman Park

Crawl space to basement conversions are one of Atlanta’s most loved and approved home additions—especially in historic neighborhoods like Inman Park. Why? Because they offer the best of both worlds: modern living space without altering the historic façade or footprint of your home. The City of Atlanta encourages them, and local preservation groups appreciate how they protect the neighborhood’s architectural integrity.

At Heide Contracting, we specialize in turning unused crawl spaces into beautiful, functional lower levels—whether you're dreaming of a family room, guest suite, home office, or rental-ready space. It's a smart way to gain square footage without impacting historic sightlines, rooflines, or lot coverage limits.

But even with discreet additions like these, historic homes still come with unique rules. If you're planning any type of home addition in Inman Park—above or below ground—it's essential to understand the city's preservation guidelines.

At Heide Contracting, our mission is to preserve the historic character of your home while giving you the space your modern life demands. We help you design and build additions that honor Inman Park’s legacy—without compromising comfort, style, or code compliance.

Here’s what you need to know before expanding your home in Inman Park:

1. Certificates of Appropriateness (COA)

In Inman Park, any exterior changes visible from a public street, alley, or park require review and approval through a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) issued by the Urban Design Commission (UDC).

There are multiple types of COAs based on the scope of work:

• Type II COA: Required for modifications like fences, rear porches, and small-scale alterations

• Type III COA: Required for major additions, new structures, or anything altering the height or footprint of your home

• Exemptions: Routine maintenance (e.g., repainting with approved colors) generally does not require a COA

Tip: We manage the entire COA process, from documentation to UDC meetings, so your project stays compliant—and stress-free.

2. Design Standards for Additions

Inman Park additions must be visually compatible with the original structure and the surrounding historic context.

Key design rules include:

• Height & Scale: Additions must not exceed the height of the existing structure and should appear secondary in scale

• Setbacks:

  • Front: Must align with the established setbacks of adjacent historic properties

  • Side & Rear: Governed by city zoning, but must not overpower neighboring structures

• Rooflines: New rooflines must match or complement the form and pitch of the original structure

• Materials: Acceptable finishes include wood lap siding, brick, stone, and true stucco

  • Vinyl and corrugated metal siding are prohibited

We specialize in historically appropriate design that blends seamlessly into the neighborhood while reflecting your personal style.

3. Preservation of Historic Features

Preserving the original character of your home is a top priority in Inman Park.

The guidelines require:

• Retention of original windows, doors, chimneys, and trim wherever possible

• New elements must match old in design, texture, material, and finish

• Distinctive features—like decorative brackets or stained glass—must not be removed or altered unless they're beyond repair

We take pride in restoring and replicating these unique architectural elements with craftsmanship that honors the original.

4. Accessory Structures

Thinking about adding a garage, carriage house, or backyard studio? Inman Park has specific guidelines for accessory buildings:

• Must be located behind the principal structure

• Total floor area cannot exceed 30% of the main building’s floor area

• Maximum height: 25 feet or the height of the main structure, whichever is less

We'll help you design structures that enhance your property while maintaining historical harmony.

5. Lot Subdivisions and Consolidations

Any change to your property lines—whether subdividing a lot or combining parcels—must reflect the historic platting patterns of Inman Park as they existed in 1945.

• Subdivisions must not disrupt the spatial rhythm of the block

• Consolidations must maintain the historic character and scale of the streetscape

We perform early zoning and plat research to make sure your plans align with these historic expectations.

6. Tree Preservation

Inman Park’s mature tree canopy is a defining feature—and it’s protected under the Atlanta Tree Ordinance.

• Trees over a certain diameter require permission to remove

• You'll need a tree protection plan and may be required to plant replacements

• Work must be coordinated with the City Arborist

Heide Contracting works with certified arborists and city officials to keep your project on track—and the canopy intact.

7. Parking and Driveways

Inman Park aims to minimize visual disruption caused by modern driveways and front-yard parking.

Rules include:

• Off-street parking is prohibited in front yards

• Driveways must be no wider than 10 feet and end behind the home

• Use of rear alleys for parking access is encouraged

We design parking solutions that follow the rules and blend into the historic streetscape.

8. Environmental and Safety Considerations

Even in a historic home, modern safety and sustainability standards apply.

• Moisture management and foundation waterproofing are required to protect both old and new construction

• Additions must meet current fire safety codes, egress requirements, and ventilation standards

We incorporate discreet, code-compliant upgrades that protect your investment and improve livability.

Build With Confidence in Inman Park

Inman Park is a neighborhood where history lives in the details—and we believe your home addition should honor that. Crawl space conversions are one of the most effective ways to expand your home while staying fully aligned with the area’s strict historic guidelines. They maintain your home’s visual charm while unlocking livable square footage below the surface—making them a favorite of both the City of Atlanta and neighborhood preservation boards.

At Heide Contracting, we combine deep expertise in crawl space renovations with a passion for historical stewardship. Whether you're converting below ground or adding above it, we’re here to help you navigate every requirement—and deliver a finished product that looks and feels like it’s always belonged.

Let’s preserve the past while building your future. Contact Heide Contracting today to explore your crawl space’s potential—or start designing the addition your historic home deserves.