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.
Yes. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has several designated pet relief areas, including:
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.
The exact layout can be updated over time, but Atlanta’s airport typically provides both curbside/outdoor and indoor post-security options.
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:
These outdoor spaces are especially useful if:
⚠️ 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.
ATL also has indoor pet relief areas behind security, typically in or near the concourses connected by the Plane Train.
These areas commonly include:
You’ll often find them:
Indoor relief areas are especially helpful when:
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.
| Type of Area | Location (General) | Security Status | When It’s Most Useful |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor pet relief area | Near terminal entrances/curbside | Pre-security | Drop-offs, pick-ups, before check-in or after arrival |
| Indoor pet relief area | In concourses, near gates or restrooms | Post-security | During layovers, tight connections, already past TSA |
When you arrive at ATL, you can use several strategies to locate the nearest relief area quickly:
Inside the terminal and concourses, look for:
These signs often appear:
You can ask:
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.
For general guidance, travelers often contact:
You can also use terminal maps available on-site throughout the airport to see icons or labels for animal relief areas.
If you’re connecting through Atlanta with a pet, planning ahead can make a big difference.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
