Pet Relief Areas at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: What You Need to Know

If you’re flying with a dog or service animal through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), you do not have to leave the terminal every time your pet needs a break. Atlanta’s airport does have multiple pet relief areas, both outside the terminals and inside the secure concourses.

Here’s how they work, where to find them, and what to expect if you’re traveling with animals in Atlanta.

Does Atlanta Airport Have a Pet Relief Area?

Yes. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has several designated pet relief areas, including:

• Pre-security (outdoor) pet relief areas near terminal entrances
• Post-security (indoor) pet relief areas in several concourses

These areas are meant for service animals, emotional support animals (where allowed), and pet dogs traveling with their owners. They are designed so you don’t have to exit and re-clear security just to let your animal relieve itself—especially useful during tight connections.

Because locations and layouts can change, it’s always a good idea to confirm details with ATL’s Customer Service or check terminal signage once you arrive.

Where Are the Pet Relief Areas at ATL?

The exact layout can be updated over time, but Atlanta’s airport typically provides both curbside/outdoor and indoor post-security options.

Outdoor Pet Relief Areas (Pre-Security)

Outdoor areas are usually located near the arrivals/ground transportation levels and may be marked with “Pet Relief Area” or similar signage.

Common patterns you’ll see:

• North and South Terminal curbside: Look for small fenced or landscaped areas marked for pets near the baggage claim/ground transportation exits.
• International Terminal (Concourse F): Often has a designated pet relief space outside near passenger pick-up areas.

These outdoor spaces are especially useful if:

• You’re dropping off or picking up someone traveling with a pet
• You’re arriving in Atlanta and want to give your animal a break before heading into the city
• You prefer to let your pet use grass or an open-air space before entering the terminal

⚠️ Important:
If you use an outdoor area after you’ve already gone through TSA, you will need to go back through security again to return to your gate. For connections, indoor areas are usually more convenient.

Indoor Pet Relief Areas (Post-Security)

ATL also has indoor pet relief areas behind security, typically in or near the concourses connected by the Plane Train.

These areas commonly include:

• Artificial turf or other pet-friendly surface
• Waste bags and trash receptacles
• Cleaning supplies or drainage systems
• Signage indicating that it’s a designated pet relief space

You’ll often find them:

• Along the concourse near certain gates
• In or near restrooms or family rest areas
• Marked on airport wayfinding signs as “Service Animal Relief Area,” “Pet Relief,” or similar

Indoor relief areas are especially helpful when:

• You’re connecting through Atlanta and don’t want to leave security
• You have a short layover and limited time
• Weather outside (heat, storms, cold) makes going outdoors inconvenient

Because the exact gates and concourse locations can shift, follow the overhead terminal signs or ask any ATL airport employee for the nearest service animal or pet relief area.

Quick Reference: Types of Pet Relief Areas at ATL

How to Find Pet Relief Areas Once You’re at the Airport

When you arrive at ATL, you can use several strategies to locate the nearest relief area quickly:

1. Follow Airport Signage

Inside the terminal and concourses, look for:

• “Service Animal Relief Area”
• “Pet Relief Area”
• Icons showing a dog or pet symbol

These signs often appear:

• Along the main concourse walkways
• On overhead wayfinding boards
• Near restrooms or family restrooms

2. Ask Airport Staff

You can ask:

• TSA officers after you clear security
• Gate agents for your airline
• Airport information desk staff or a “May I Help You?” team member

They can usually point you to the closest pet relief area in your current concourse, which is especially important if you’re short on time.

3. Use ATL Airport Information

For general guidance, travelers often contact:

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – General Information
  • Main phone line: (800) 897-1910 (commonly listed for airport info)

You can also use terminal maps available on-site throughout the airport to see icons or labels for animal relief areas.

Using Pet Relief Areas During Connections in Atlanta

If you’re connecting through Atlanta with a pet, planning ahead can make a big difference.

Tips for Layovers with Pets at ATL

• Stay post-security if possible
  Use an indoor pet relief area so you don’t need to clear TSA a second time.

• Check your concourse early
  Once you know your next gate, head toward that concourse and look for signs pointing to the nearest animal relief area.

• Allow buffer time
  Try to give yourself at least 20–30 minutes before boarding to walk to the relief area, let your pet settle, and return to your gate.

• Consider Atlanta’s size
  ATL is a very busy, spread-out airport. Even with the Plane Train, it can take some time to move between concourses, especially at peak hours.

Service Animals vs. Pets at Atlanta Airport

Both service animals and pet dogs may use the pet relief areas at ATL, but it’s helpful to understand how they’re generally treated within the airport environment.

Service Animals

• Allowed throughout the terminal and concourses when accompanying a person with a disability
• May be referenced specifically by signage as “Service Animal Relief Area”
• Handlers are still expected to use designated relief areas and keep the animal under control

Pets (Non-Service Animals)

• Airport rules typically require pets to be in a carrier unless they are in a pet relief area or otherwise specifically allowed out by airline/airport policy
• Each airline (Delta, Southwest, etc.) sets its own rules for pets in the cabin or cargo, including fees and size limits
• You’re responsible for cleaning up after your pet and using the relief spaces appropriately

If you’re flying out of Atlanta, checking your airline’s pet policy ahead of time is important, especially if you live in the metro area and plan to use ATL regularly for travel with your animal.

What to Bring When Traveling with Pets Through ATL

To make the most of the pet relief areas at Atlanta’s airport, it helps to come prepared:

• Leash or harness
  Even if your pet is usually in a carrier, you’ll need a leash to safely use the relief area.

• Waste bags
  Relief areas usually provide bags, but having your own avoids delays or shortages.

• Cleaning wipes or small towel
  Helpful if your pet has an accident outside the designated spot or gets messy.

• Collapsible water bowl
  Atlanta’s airport can be busy and warm; giving your pet water after security or between flights can keep them more comfortable.

• Documentation (if needed)
  For service animals or certain airline pet policies, you may need paperwork or confirmation on file with your airline.

Getting Between the Airport and the City of Atlanta with Pets

Once you’re done using the pet relief areas and you’re heading into the city or back to the airport, it’s useful to know how Atlanta’s local transportation options tend to handle pets:

• MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority)
  Small pets are typically required to be in carriers, while service animals are allowed to accompany passengers. For up-to-date guidance, you can contact MARTA Customer Service at (404) 848-5000.

• Taxis and rideshare
  Policies vary by driver. It’s common practice to notify the driver through the app if you’re traveling with a non-service pet. Service animals are generally allowed with their handler.

• Airport shuttles and hotel vans
  Many hotel shuttles serving ATL operate from ground transportation areas. If you’re staying at an Atlanta hotel, check their pet policy and whether their shuttle can accommodate your animal.

If you live in Atlanta and often pick up visitors with pets, plan to meet them near baggage claim and use the outdoor pet relief areas before starting the drive home.

Key Takeaways for Pet Owners at Atlanta Airport

• Yes, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport has pet relief areas, both inside and outside the terminals.
• Outdoor areas: Useful before check-in or after arrival if you’re heading into Atlanta.
• Indoor post-security areas: Best for connections and when you don’t want to re-clear TSA.
• Look for signs labeled “Service Animal Relief Area” or “Pet Relief Area”, or ask airport staff for directions.
• Plan a little extra time in your itinerary—ATL is large, and pet relief stops can add a few minutes to your route.

With a bit of planning, traveling with a dog or service animal through Atlanta’s airport can be manageable and far less stressful, whether you’re an Atlanta local heading out or a visitor just passing through.