When do I need a building permit?

Whenever you construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move or demolish any building or structure in the City of Chattanooga you are generally required to obtain a building permit.  In certain cases where you are only painting or maybe doing light decorative alterations, you may not be required to get a building permit.  Check with your local Inspections office to verify this. 

What can I build on my property?

This question is site specific based on the zoning and size of a property.  This information can be obtained by contacting Plans Review in Building Inspection.

Do I have to be licensed?

You are required to be a licensed Plumbing, Electrical, Gas or Mechanical contractor to get permits to do work in any of these fields in the City of Chattanooga.  An owner may apply for a permit, supervise and do the work in connection with the construction, maintenance, repair, alteration and addition to a single-family residence for his own use and occupancy and not intended for sale.    An owner may apply for a permit to repair or renovate a duplex, multi-family home or commercial structure if they can meet certain specifications.  The Plans Review personnel will be able to determine if the owner can perform the work or, if the volume of work exceeds the maximum amount allowed, a State licensed contractor will be required to get the permit. 

Am I required to obtain a permit to build a fence?

No—but please take care not to encroach upon your neighbor’s property or to block the vision of drivers near intersections or along the right-of-way. 

Why do I need a permit to build or remodel my own house / property?

In a word, safety—your safety and that of your family, visitors and guests. 

Where can I get copies of plans for a building that was constructed many years ago?

We comply with State law which means that we only retain plans for one year after issuing a Certificate of Occupancy.  However, since construction plans are not required for single–family and duplex residential houses, these would not be available for viewing. 

At what stages do I need an inspection?

Inspections are required prior to placement of concrete for footing or slab; framing or rough-in; insulation and final stages of a project.  It is the owner/contractor’s responsibility to call for an inspection. 

How long is a building permit valid?

It is generally valid as long as construction continues until the final inspection.   If you stop work for more than six months or no in-progress inspections are scheduled and completed, the permit will be considered invalid and you will have to re-apply for a new permit.