City of Knoxville - Building Codes Permits Inspections

BUILDING CODES, PERMITS, & INSPECTIONS

Public Works Department

Plans Review & Inspections Division

Building Permits & Inspections
Construction Codes Price List [PDF]
Contractor License Fees [PDF]
Current Codes in Effect
Fast Fact Sheets
Fee Schedule [PDF]
Frequently Asked Questions
Interactive Voice Response Info [PDF]
Plans Review & Inspections Boards
Sign Permits and Inspections
State Licensing Board
Trust Account
Zoning Complaints and Inspections
Zoning Ordinance

Permits/Licenses/Forms/Apps

This office is responsible for the review, permitting, licensing and inspection of all construction projects within the City of Knoxville and consists of Plans Review, Building Inspections, Electrical Inspections, Signs and Zoning Inspections, Mechanical/Gas Inspections and Plumbing Inspections.

What Are Building Codes?

Building codes are the rules, regulations and specifications that the City of Knoxville uses to help ensure quality construction and a safe finished structure.

What Is a Building Permit?

A building permit is a license required by city code that grants legal permission to construct, enlarge, alter repair or demolish a structure or equipment (such as heating, plumbing or electrical systems) installed in a building. Permission to change the use of a building, excavate or fill land, or develop in a floodplain also requires a permit.

Why Are Inspections Needed?

City code requires a permit be issued when work is to be performed on a structure. The inspections that follow the issuance of the permit may uncover unsatisfactory work, faulty materials or violations of the code that could result in unsafe and hazardous conditions for you, your family, your employees or the general public.

When Do I Need a Permit?

A permit is required for any substantial repairs, alterations, new buildings and additions; most excavation and filling of land; signs; and paved parking areas. Minor work (under $100 in value) such as painting, wallpapering and routine maintenance of heating, air conditioning, plumbing or electrical systems typically do not need a permit. Questions about when a permit is needed for minor repair to a residence should be addressed to the Inspections Bureau at 215-2999.

Separate permits are necessary for plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilating and air conditioning work; signs; and excavation, whether the work is done in conjunction with other work performed under a building permit or not. Permits are also required for relocating or replacing plumbing fixtures or plumbing appliances which are built into a structure, such as dishwashers.

Who Can Get a Permit?

Contractors must be licensed in their particular specialty (for example, electrical, gas or plumbing) to obtain a permit. Homeowners do not need a license to obtain a permit. However, they must sign an affidavit stating they own and live in the house on which the work will be performed.

Where Do I Apply For a Permit?

Applications for permits, certificates or licenses can be made at the Inspections Bureau in Room 505, City-County Building, 400 Main St., From 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

What Is Plans Review?

Applicants for most building permits must submit project plans for the Plans Review process. Check with the Building Inspections office to determine whether your permit(s) require Plans Review. This process ensures compliance with the city's building codes (see below), zoning rules and other regulations. All plans typically are reviewed within 14 working days of their receipt in the Building Inspections Office.

How Long Is a Permit Valid?

Permits are valid for the duration of the project, provided construction begins within six months of obtaining the permit. If a project is abandoned for more than six continuous months, the plans must go through Plans Review again and new permits must be issued before work can begin again.

What Types of Inspections Are Required?

Typically, builders are required to call for three types of inspections during the building process, prior to covering up their work: footing/underground; framing/rough-in; and final. The number to call to schedule an inspection is listed on the permit.

Where Should I Call to Schedule an Inspection?

Call the Interactive Voice Response System at 215-4830 to schedule an inspection. Before calling you will need; a touch tone phone, a site specific permit number and an inspection type.

If I Have Questions About My Ongoing Building Project, Who Should I Contact?

First, contact your field inspector. They have cellular phones and will be glad to assist you. If you need further assistance, contact the Chief Inspector of each trade.

What Is a Certificate of Occupancy?

It is a document that certifies all inspections were made and approved by the various Inspections Bureau Offices and that the structure is ready for occupancy.

What Codes Are Enforced in the City of Knoxville?

City of Knoxville Zoning Ordinance (with amendments) adopted by City Ordinance 3369 (available online at www.knoxmpc.org)

2003 ANSI A117 as adopted by City Ordinance 0-248-07

2006 International Energy Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-249-07

2006 International Building Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-248-07

2006 International Residential Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-247-07

2005 edition of the National Electrical Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-253-05

2006 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-79-07

2006 edition of the International Mechanical Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-80-07

2006 edition of the International Plumbing Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-81-07

Knoxville Code of Ordinances: Chapter 6 Buildings and Building Regulations, Article I. Section 6-5. Fire district

In addition, the Fire Inspection Bureau reviews plans for compliance with:

2006 edition of NFPA 1Uniform Fire Code & NFPA 101 Life Safety Code as adopted by City Ordinance 0-245-07