Research and Records Request

The Plans Review & Inspections office is currently working to consolidate permitting and inspection history from multiple permitting systems into a single database. Conversion of these electronic and paper records is a process which will take time but, until the work is completed, a means to acquire needed information is still available through a formal research and records request. 

The following links will provide direct access to applications for research and records related services provided by the Plans Review & Inspections office. 

What type of records or research do you need?

 

 

Common Questions:

Who can request access to public records?

Any resident of Tennessee may request access to public records. The requestor must submit a copy of a valid State of TN issued photo ID that includes an address to verify residency. By law, non-citizens of Tennessee do not have a right to inspect or copy public records.

Because of questions regarding the validity of requests for information from request fulfillment services, particularly those located outside the State of Tennessee, the City is not required to provide copies of public records through such entities.

 

How do I get access to public records for property in the City?

Records research can be requested by completing a document request form. The request needs to be clear as to the information needed and the time period you would like researched. Research cannot be performed at the taxpayers expense so the requestor will be billed for the records custodians time.

Are there fees associated with records and research requests?

A combination of security issues and system complexity mean that a records custodian is needed to perform the requested research. Research is purchased in one hour (1) increments, the first hour prior to beginning the requested work. If the records custodian finds that the request is going to require additional time to complete, someone will contact you with an estimated time for completion and permission to continue before proceeding or invoicing you for additional time.

Fee schedules differ slightly depending on the information needed due to local/state requirements for records types involved/organization. Building and structure research are billed per legal address. This can lead to higher than expected research cost if a parcel contains multiple structures that are included in the request. Zoning research options are broader in scope and does not involve the same level of research as Building and Structure will. As such, these requests can be billed by parcel, regardless of the number of structures involved.

Additional information on fees is available on the specific research request pages.

Can I access records myself?

We are working to provide a more convenient means to access records but we still have a substantial amount of records in paper format. Until we can arrange for all of these records to be digitized, access to records will be through a records custodian. This individual will compile and return your requested information.

How do I get the results of my research request?

Your research results will be provided via email. The form the results take will depend on the type of research requested and its scope. Additional details are available on the specific request-type pages.

Returning the results in print or physical disc (DVD) will incur additional copy/production fees. 

For security purposes, records custodians may not accept or use open, out-of-the-box or previously used electronic storage devices (flash drives, memory cards, etc.) provided by requestors.

 

What public information can be accessed?

Most property records are available as public record and include active or closed permit details, contractor information, inspections records, approved construction plans, complaint or violation records, and Certificates of Occupancy.

Where public records requested include any information made confidential under state or federal law, the records custodian will work in coordination with the Law Department to ensure that confidential information is redacted prior to release.