On the local level Fatland was mayor of Strand during the term 1979–1983, and then became a member of the executive committee of Strand municipality council from 1983 to 1987. From 1983 to 1987 he was also a deputy member of Rogaland county council.
Outside politics he mainly worked as a banker. He was a member of various public boards and committees, and of the local sports club in Tau.
