Navigating the permitting process in Tennessee requires contractors and developers to understand statewide building codes while also accounting for the fact that most permitting authority rests with local jurisdictions.
Learn which projects require permits in Tennessee, who issues them, application requirements, costs, unique considerations, and how to obtain a permit successfully.
Who issues building permits in Tennessee?
Building permits in Tennessee are issued by local governments — either city building departments or county codes offices. Larger municipalities often manage their own permitting, while rural areas may rely on county administration.
Examples of permitting authorities in Tennessee include:
- City of Nashville (Metro Codes Department)
- City of Memphis (Code Enforcement)
- City of Knoxville (Plans Review & Inspections)
- Shelby County Construction Code Enforcement
- Hamilton County Building Inspection Division
Tennessee building permit requirements
Tennessee requires permits for most construction, renovation, and installation work that affects a building’s safety, structure, or utility systems. Requirements are set at the local level, but common projects needing a permit include:
- New residential or commercial buildings
- Structural additions or remodels
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical system work
- Roofing, siding, or window replacement (depending on the municipality)
- Garages, decks, carports, and accessory structures
- Demolition of existing structures
- Commercial tenant build-outs
Projects that may not require a permit include cosmetic repairs like painting, flooring replacement, cabinets, or small non-structural maintenance.
Permit application requirements vary by jurisdiction, but typically include:
- Completed local permit application form
- Construction drawings and specifications (engineer/architect seal required for commercial projects)
- Site plan showing setbacks, utilities, and lot dimensions
- Contractor’s Tennessee license and insurance information
- Estimated project valuation and description of work
Some jurisdictions may also require:
- Zoning approval before permit issuance
- Energy compliance documentation per the adopted IECC cycle
- Floodplain development permits in designated areas
- Septic and well permits for projects outside city utility service areas
Tennessee building permit costs
Permit fees in Tennessee are generally based on project valuation, square footage, or flat rates for specific types of work. Each jurisdiction sets its own fee schedule.
Typical fee structures include:
- Residential construction: $5-$10 per $1,000 of project valuation
- Commercial construction: $6-$15 per $1,000 of project valuation
- Flat fees for small projects (HVAC, water heaters, reroofing)
- Plan review fees – commonly charged at 25-50% of the building permit fee
Example: Nashville’s Metro Codes Department calculates permit fees based on total construction cost, with additional charges for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.
Unique considerations when permitting in Tennessee
Local code adoption
Tennessee adopts statewide minimum codes (including the International Building Code, International Residential Code, and International Energy Conservation Code), but enforcement and code cycle adoption may vary by jurisdiction.
State vs. local enforcement
In smaller counties without their own building departments, the State Fire Marshal’s Office may handle permitting and inspections for commercial projects.
Floodplain development
Tennessee has many flood-prone areas, and local permitting often includes FEMA floodplain compliance checks.
Contractor licensing
Contractors must hold the appropriate Tennessee state license for projects over $25,000 (commercial) or $3,000 (residential). Local licensing may also be required.
How to get a building permit in Tennessee
The permitting process in Tennessee generally follows these steps:
- Determine jurisdiction – Verify whether the project falls under city, county, or state review.
- Confirm local requirements – Review building and zoning requirements specific to the AHJ.
- Prepare application materials – Gather plans, contractor licensing, project valuation, and site details.
- Submit application – Many larger jurisdictions, including Nashville and Memphis, offer online application portals.
- Plan review – Building officials review for code compliance, zoning, utilities, and fire safety.
- Pay permit fees – Fees are assessed based on valuation or square footage.
- Receive permit – The approved permit must be posted visibly on the job site.
- Schedule inspections – Inspections are required for framing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and final completion.
- Certificate of Occupancy – For new builds and major remodels, a CO is issued once all inspections are passed.
