Application

Click here(PDF, 810KB)  for the application for a Building Code Modification Request. 

At no cost, the owner or owner’s authorized agent (In the case of a project requiring the services of a State of Tennessee Architect or Engineer, the application must be completed by the licensed architect or engineer and be signed and sealed in accordance with TN State Board of Architectural and Engineer Examiners--Rules of Professional Conduct(PDF, 219KB) ) shall complete the application filling out all fields and descriptions.

In addition to completing the application, the applicant shall also submit all supporting documentation, drawings, diagrams, interpretations, examples, calculations, test reports, etc., so as to justify the request. Seismic requests must include the ASCE 7 Hazard tool (found here).   Vague or incomplete applications will be returned.

Submission

Completed BCMR Applications shall be submitted via email to bldginspections@knoxvilletn.gov. City staff will review your request as soon as possible, informing you of the results via email.

Background:

The International family of codes, a.k.a. “I-Codes” allow for deviations from the strictest letter of the code where there are practical challenges that can not be met. Where this is decided to be the case, the Code allows for alternative solutions. The 2018 International Building Code section 104.10-MODIFICATIONS states the following:

“Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the building official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, upon application of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent, provided that the building official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical, the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, accessibility, life and fire safety or structural requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the department of building safety.”

Process

In the cause of fairness, consistency, transparency and record keeping, such modifications to the building codes must be properly applied for, documented, substantiated, reviewed and either accepted or rejected by the building official. Upon receipt of a (BCMR) Building Code Modification Request, City staff will gather to discuss the merits of the request, whether the request meets the intent and purpose of the Code, and determine whether the health, accessibility, life and fire safety or structural requirements have not been reduced or harmed. The Building Official with either: APPROVE, REJECT or ask that the applicant REVISE the request. Upon receipt of a REJECTED modification request, the applicant, at his/her discretion and expense has the right to challenge the determination through the appeals process to the Construction Appeals Board as granted by IBC Section 113-BOARD OF APPEALS.

We currently offer two meeting options, depending on your stage of development. 

• Project discussion - This is an informal meeting with a limited group of staff to discuss your project and general submittal requirements.
• Pre-Submittal conference - This is a formal meeting with planning and review staff to discuss the development process and high-level design details for complex construction and renovation projects.

Please click here to navigate to our "Request a Meeting" page.  Please note that you will be required to submit all requested documentation during the application process for your request.  Requests are reviewed and complete applications are scheduled as availability allows; appointments are limited and fill quickly. 

When you submit an application for permit, and associate it to your Citizen Access account, you are defined by the system as the 'applicant'. The applicant is a point-of-contact and does not hold any legal responsibility for the project. The second category on the Contact Information portion of the application, under the heading of License Professional List, is where the information for the person or company legally responsible for the permit and work is located - this is the Permit Holder. All permits must have a permit holder before the permit can be released for work.

Please click here to navigate to our "License and Registrations" page.

You will learn about and be able to apply for the following license types:

• TN Building Contractor - individual or company licensed by the State of TN to perform work.
• Homeowner Registration - individual who owns and resides in a single-family dwelling and is performing work themselves.
• Unlicensed Registration - individual who is NOT licensed by the State of TN but is performing limited work in accordance with State guidelines.
• Mechanical Contractor & Installer - individual licensed by the City of Knoxville to perform mechanical/gas work on residential and commercial mechanical and/or limited gas systems. This individual may hold a comparable license with the State of TN.
• Electrical Contractor & Installer - individual licensed by the City of Knoxville to perform electrical work on residential and commercial electrical systems, including low-voltage systems. This individual may hold a comparable license with the State of TN.
• Plumbing Contractor & Installer - individual licensed by the City of Knoxville to perform plumbing/gas work on plumbing and/or limited gas systems. This individual may hold a comparable license with the State of TN.
• Low-Voltage Installer - individual licensed by the City of Knoxville to perform electrical work on commercial low-voltage systems only. This individual may hold a license with the State of TN to perform work on specific low-voltage systems.

   

Some information for recent or in-process projects are available for public viewing now and can be found on the City of Knoxville Record Search page; other information is still pending conversion to a viewable state. We are actively converting permit data from older permit systems, including paper records, so new information will be available over time.

Please click here to navigate to our "Research and Records Request" page to request that a records custodian manually pull any available requested information out of the paper archives or legacy permitting system(s). Research, record collection, and data conversion are performed at an hourly rate.

Information is available at the link above for:

• Building & Structure Research - outstanding violations, permit history, and/or certificates of occupancy on file
• Zoning Research - confirmation of zoning designation, confirmation of current legal use, and/or confirmation of proposed use
• Engineering Letters - site plans, grading and site development permit history

The current ordinance has fees separated out for general plans review, engineering plans review, building permitting fees, engineering permitting fees, MEP fees, etc. and the timing for invoicing of these fees vary. For a project that is required to go through plans review, fees are generated as follows:

1. General plans review fee. This fee varies based on which code (IRC or IBC) is applied to the project and the overall valuation of the project. These fee covers labor associated with the initial standard review by all review groups except Engineering . This is the initial invoice and payment of this fee opens the review portal so plans can be uploaded and submitted for review.
2. Engineering review fee. This fee is calculated and invoiced during the review process based on the submitted plans. This is a supplement invoice that covers the standard review by Engineering.
3. Engineering permit fee. This fee is calculated and invoiced during the review process; generally just prior to Engineering approval being granted. This will cover things like the grading permit and special pollution abatement permit and the associated inspections performed by stormwater/engineering inspectors. This fee is only assessed by the engineering reviewer when a permit fee is required.
4. Additional Review Cycle fee. This is a review fee assessed by both the building office and the engineering office when a plans review requires 4 or more submittals to achieve approval for permit. This fee helps offset the additional labor cost associated with review of these projects; most projects do not require assessment of this fee type.
5. Building permit fee. This fee varies based on which code (IRC or IBC) is applied to the project and the overall valuation of the project. These fees cover the initial standard inspections required for site design and building construction that are performed by the building inspector. This fee is only assessed by the system when a building permit is required.
6. Reinspection fee. This fee is assessed by the inspector when a particular project continues be remain non-compliant after multiple inspections, ie contractor has repeatedly failed the framing inspection. This fee is easily avoided by ensuring the project is ready for inspection prior to scheduling and that all required associated with a particular phase of the project have been completed.

If you are ever unsure why a fee has been assessed or if a fee is valid, please contact the office before paying the fees. Depending on how fees are paid (either through your citizen access account or anonymously), fees made in error may not be recoverable.

Your permit fees cover the initial required inspections and one reinspection for code compliance. Scheduling an inspection before it is ready because you think you can get finished before the inspector arrives or scheduling an inspection before required/associated inspections have been approved (scheduling framing before all MEP rough-in inspections are completed) will result in a failed inspection. Multiple reinspection attempts on same violation will result in reinspection fees. Reinspection fees must be paid before the permit will accept new inspection requests.

Permits are valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Permits must be closed or renewed prior to their expiration to prevent the issuance of a NOV (Notice of Violation) against the property. Having a NOV open on the property can create issues when you want the sell a property, apply for permits for property improvements, seek financing/refinancing with a lending institution, or have an insurance claim at the property.

The following fees are required for the permitting of projects for 1-and 2-family residential buildings, townhouses, and associated accessory buildings. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

The following fees are required for the review of construction drawings associated with an IBC commercial project. These fees help off-set the time invested by the plans examiners to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the inspection process.

The initial fee payment for the review of construction documents provides for the initial evaluation by the review groups and two (2) resubmittals for the verification of corrections or inclusion of additional information. If the plans are not permittable after three (3) review cycles, additional fees will be assessed based on the offices where approvals are outstanding. The following fees will be assessed on review cycle four (4) and greater

The following fees are required for the permitting of projects for 1-and 2-family residential buildings, townhouses, and associated accessory buildings. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

Work beginning prior to issuance of a permit will occur a penalty of an additional 100% of the calculated permit fee (double fees). Trade work performed without permit may result in the building project permit being locked until the appropriate permits are issued.

The following fees are required for the permitting of projects for either commercial buildings or IBC residential buildings. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

Work beginning prior to issuance of a permit will occur a penalty of an additional 100% of the calculated permit fee (double fees). Trade work performed without permit may result in the building project permit being locked until the appropriate permits are issued.

The following fees are required for the permitting of mechanical work associated with both IBC commercial and IRC residential mechanical installations. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

Work beginning prior to issuance of a permit will occur a penalty of an additional 100% of the calculated permit fee (double fees).

The following fees are required for the permitting of electrical work associated with both IBC commercial and IRC residential electrical installations. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

Work beginning prior to issuance of a permit will occur a penalty of an additional 100% of the calculated permit fee (double fees).

The following fees are required for the permitting of mechanical work associated with both IBC commercial and IRC residential mechanical installations. These fees help off-set the time and travel for field inspectors who are working to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the construction process.

Work beginning prior to issuance of a permit will occur a penalty of an additional 100% of the calculated permit fee (double fees).

Registrations for building contractor and individuals performing work under a State of TN exemption (the homeowner permit holder and unlicensed permit holder) do not have associated fees. Both the MEP contractor and installer license fees are incurred at license issuance and renewal. Note - the MEP license types are now valid for 365 days from date of issuance and there are no longer penalties assessed for letting a license lapse; you only need to renew if/when you need to pull a permit.

This can be a very difficult to answer because projects differ vastly in scope; thus what needs to be submitted differs. The thing to keep in mind is that the submittal of plans is to document where and how work is being performed. To that end, the basics of submittal are as follows:

New Construction - This is the easiest list to generate since you are going from 'nothing' to a completed structure. You will, at minimum, need:

• site plan,
• foundation plan with footing, piers and slab details (if applicable),
• framing plans for floors, walls, roof/ceiling,
• labeled and dimensioned floor plans and
• insulation details.
• Reviewers may ask for additional details depending on your project design or project location, i.e. details of windows, fire protection assemblies, required parking, etc.

Addition - This is very similar to new construction and all of those requirements will apply. In addition, you may also need details of how you are modifying the existing construction for the addition, i.e. changes to wall framing, foundations, or roof construction.

Alteration, Repair, Interior Demolition - This permit type is the tricky one and most likely to cause issues/delays because work exceeds the permitted scope. ALWAYS BE VERY DETAILED IN THE APPLICATION DESCRIPTION; we don't need to know the color of the walls but being vague, i.e. "Updates to kitchen and framing repairs as needed", is going to cause nothing but issues. A couple notes about this permit type:

1. Repair is classified as limited like-in-kind replacement of building components due to unforseen damage. You cannot rebuild entire walls or change anything when you request classification as a repair.
2. This types of project a notorious for expanding in scope. When you find something unexpected or think you might be getting into something the permit may not cover, request an on-site inspection to discuss the permit with your inspector or ask the office for guidance. It is faster, and generally cheaper, to upgrade a permit than deal with these corrections after-the-fact.

As for plans:

• a site plan not generally required but there are several scenarios where this may be requested; usually it is a change of use that triggers the requirement.
• labeled and dimensioned floor plans. It is preferred that two versions be provided; a 'before' floor plan that shows original layout and designates all areas of demolition/change and an 'after' floor plan that shows how the building will be laid out at completion.
• framing plans for floors, walls, ceilings being affected; especially if the changes affect the load path/a bearing wall.
• mechanical/electrical/plumbing plans are not required but making notes about systems being altered can prevent questions later.

Demolition - This is not limited/interior demolition; this is the total removal of one or more structures on a property. For submittal you will need to upload:

• a site plan with any/all structures to be removed clearly identified and any grading to be performed.
• additional details may be required depending on the size of the structure or the property location. For structures with a basement, the permit release process is considerably faster if the basement is noted and that the basement will be back-filled with clean-fill (construction debris cannot be used).

It seems like such a simple project but decks introduce a lot of opportunity for injury and correcting construction issues after-the-fact can be complicated and/or expensive. It is much faster, cheaper, and easier to flesh out the details on paper than it is to deal with things in the field. To that end, we do have some resources to help with the deck design. Be aware, that these tools will help with most basic deck designs but they are not developed to handle multi-story decks or decks supporting additional loads such as sunrooms, hot tubs, or roofs.

The Residential Prescriptive Deck Guide pulls the associated code and tables associated with deck construction out of the IRC Residential Code and consolidates it in one document. This guide gives you the tools you need to ensure that your project, in most cases, can achieve code compliance.

Residential Prescriptive Deck Guide.pdf(PDF, 2MB)

The Residential Deck Submittal Package is a multi-page pdf that will walk you through all of the information that is typically needed for deck construction. You will need to draw a basic framing layout on page 1, answer the questions/circle the appropriate images on the next few pages, and initial the last two statements concerning stair construction; then just scan these as individual sheets and upload. These sheets, along with a site plan, will generally result in a permit on the first try.

Residential Deck Submittal Package.pdf(PDF, 356KB)

The International Residential Code (IRC) was created to serve as a complete, comprehensive code regulating the construction of single-family houses, two-family houses (duplexes) and buildings consisting of three or more townhouse units. All buildings within the scope of the IRC are limited to three stories above grade plane. For example, a four-story single-family house would fall within the scope of the International Building Code (IBC), not the IRC. The benefits of devoting a separate code to residential construction include the fact that the user need not navigate through a multitude of code provisions that do not apply to residential construction in order to locate that which is applicable. A separate code also allows for residential and nonresidential code provisions to be distinct and tailored to the structures that fall within the appropriate code’s scopes.

The IRC contains coverage for all components of a house or townhouse, including structural components, fireplaces and chimneys, thermal insulation, mechanical systems, fuel gas systems, plumbing systems and electrical systems.

The IRC is a prescriptive-oriented code with some examples of performance code language. It is often said that the IRC is the complete cookbook for residential construction. It is important to understand that the IRC contains coverage for what is conventional and common in residential construction practice. While the IRC will provide all of the needed coverage for most residential construction, it might not address construction practices and systems that are atypical or rarely encountered in the industry. The IRC is meant to be all inclusive for typical residential construction and it relies on other codes only where alternatives are desired or where the code lacks coverage for the uncommon aspect of residential construction. Of course, the IRC constantly evolves to address new technologies and construction practices that were once uncommon, but are now common.

The following fees are required for the review of construction drawings associated with an IRC residential project. These fees help off-set the time invested by the plans examiners to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the inspection process.

The initial fee payment for the review of construction documents provides for the initial evaluation and two (2) resubmittals for the verification of corrections or inclusion of additional information. If the plans are permittable after three (3) review cycles, additional fees will be assessed based on the which offices are approvals are outstanding.

The International Building Code (IBC) is a model code that provides minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare of the occupants of new and existing buildings and structures. The IBC is fully compatible with the ICC family of codes.

The IBC addresses structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, accessibility, energy conservation and life safety in regard to new and existing buildings, facilities and systems. The codes are promulgated on a 3-year cycle to allow for new construction methods and technologies to be incorporated into the codes. Alternative materials, designs and methods not specifically addressed in the code can be approved by the building official where the proposed materials, designs or methods comply with the intent of the provisions of the code (see Section 104.11).

The IBC applies to all occupancies, including one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses that are not within the scope of the IRC. The IRC is referenced for coverage of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses as defined in the exception to Section 101.2 and the definition for “Townhouse” in Chapter 2. The IRC can also be used for the construction of live/work units (as defined in Section 419) and small bed and breakfast-style hotels where there are five or fewer guest rooms and the hotel is owner occupied. The IBC applies to all types of buildings and structures unless exempted. 

The following fees are required for the review of construction drawings associated with an IRC residential project. These fees help off-set the time invested by the plans examiners to ensure the contractor and/or owner has clear direction on how to meet the requirements of the code and that the project does not experience delays or additional costs because of preventable issues during the inspection process.

The initial fee payment for the review of construction documents provides for the initial evaluation by the review groups and two (2) resubmittals for the verification of corrections or inclusion of additional information. If the plans are not permittable after three (3) review cycles, additional fees will be assessed based on the offices where approvals are outstanding. The following fees will be assessed on review cycle four (4) and greater

Most of the time it is best to assume you will need a permit. In some cases, the requirement for a building permit can be waived by the building official, after review of the application. Just because a project is deemed 'exempt' from building permit requirement it does not mean that you are prohibited from pulling a permit. Often, homeowners will still pull an alteration permit for exempt work (for example changing out kitchen cabinets, replacing trim and painting) to have a record of work and inspection. Documenting updates with permits is an easy way to increase property value and prevent questions when selling the home or filing an insurance claim.

The following types of work may be provided an exemption from the requirement for a building permit, when associated with an approved zoning plans review:

1. Fences not over 7 feet high.
2. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24 inches deep.
3. Swings and other playground equipment.
4. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches from the exterior wall and do not require additional  support. 

Receiving an exemption from permit requirements does not that any work being done will not have to meet current code requirements, just that you will not have permit or inspection requirement. Another perk to pulling a permit for exempt work is that you will gain access to a City inspector to help guide you in your project. 

Permits are valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Permits must be closed or renewed prior to their expiration to prevent the issuance of a NOV (Notice of Violation) against the property. Having a NOV open on the property can create issues when you want the sell a property, apply for permits for property improvements, seek financing/refinancing with a lending institution, or have an insurance claim at the property.

Yes.  You will need to submit a site plan that shows the dimensions of the lot, all existing structures, the size of the structure and the setbacks.  You will also need to provide an elevation or details documenting the height. This information will be reviewed and, once approved, will result in the appropriate permit. Some projects may qualify for exemptions provided by the code and will only require a certification permit be issued.

Submittal requirements will vary depending on the scope of your project. New construction and additions to a home will require the most information, minor alterations and accessory building will generally require less detail.

This is a minimum plan review checklist, additional information may be added by the applicant, required by the plans examiner or requested in the field, by the inspector, to determine code compliance. Permit holders remain responsible for meeting all code requirements, regardless if the subject item was a review item or not. This minimum review checklist is intended to help prevent any major non-compliance issues from being built in the field, which typically results in significant cost and delays on a project.

All plans submitted for permitting are required to match site plan layouts exactly, including I-Joist, floor and roof truss layouts. 

General

• Name of the person preparing the construction documents; such as the designer, engineer, or architect, with address and phone number.

• If plans are stamped by a State of Tennessee architect or engineer, their seals are required to be signed and dated.

• Indicate heated square footage, garage square footage, unheated square footage, deck/porch square footage.

• Number of bedrooms on the plans are required to match permit application.

• All options being used need to be clearly marked. Please eliminate or mark out options not being used.

• Drawings to scale (minimum 1/8").

• Details demonstrating compliance with energy code requirements for insulation (slab, floors, walls and ceiling) and windows/doors. 

Elevations / Floor Plans

• Front, sides and rear elevations

• Building height, mean roof height and story height

• Roof pitches

• Glazing U-Factor

• Rooms labeled as to their intended use. Please do not use bonus, flex or office.

• Mark all unheated / unfinished areas.

• Room, hallway and stair dimensions

• Window and door sizes and locations

• Label and show all fireplaces, prefab or masonry. 

Foundation / Floor Framing

• Continuous exterior footing width and thickness, installation depth and reinforcement (if required/provided).

• Foundation wall type, size and reinforcement (if required).

• Pier footing size width and depth, reinforcement (if required). 

• Pier sizes and solid cap

• Slab footings and layouts for mono-slabs

• Slab thickness and details, reinforcement (if required). 

• Crawl space ventilation or enclosed crawl space marked on plans with installation details

• Crawl space access size

• Girder size, number of members, species, grade and spans

• Floor joist direction, size, on-center spacing, species, grade and spans

• If using I-Joist, plans or layout will need to list manufacturer, series, size and on-center spacing. I-Joist design is required to be approved by architect or engineer of plans.

• If using open web floor trusses, layout from manufacturer required.

• Openings in floors, headers and trimmers marked

• Floor sheathing type and thickness 

Wall & General Framing

• Wall stud size, on-center spacing, species and grade

• Wall header size, number of members, species, grade and spans

• Number of jack and king studs for each opening

• Beam type or species/grade, size, number of members and span

• Stud column size, number of members, species and grade for beams and point loads

• Wall sheathing type and thickness

• Wall bracing method used

• Portal/narrow wall bracing detail, if required

• Point loads marked with load path and blocking requirements

• If brick veneer used, list lintel requirements. 

Roof Framing

• Roof rafter plan or layout from manufacturer if using engineered roof trusses

• Roof rafter direction, size, on-center spacing, species, grade and spans

• Roof tie down method and continuous load path

• Collar ties and rafter ties size and spacing

• Ridge board, hip and valley sizes

• Ceiling joist direction, size, on-center spacing, species, grade and spans

• Openings in ceilings or roof, headers and trimmers marked

• Roof sheathing type and thickness

• Roof ventilation or plans marked as unvented with installation details

• Attic access size and location 

Decks and Porches

• Dimensions – outside dimensions, spans between supports posts and footings.

• Footing sizes – width, depth and locations.

• Posts size.

• Beam sizes, number of members and spans between supports.

• Post-to-Beam attachment details

• Floor joist direction, size, on-center spacing and spans.

• Floor joist-to-Beam attachment details.

• Bracing details for free standing decks and decks attached to structures with a floor height 4’ or taller.

• Deck to house band attachment details.

• Header size, number of members and spans between posts

• Ceiling joist direction, size, on-center spacing and spans

• Roof rafter direction, size, on-center spacing and spans

• Ridge size
   

Note: All structural information must comply with the 2018 International Residential Code and all adopted ordinances. Structural elements not found in 2018 International Residential Code must be sealed by a professional engineer or architect registered in the State of Tennessee or comply with the requirements of the 2018 International Building Code.

A preliminary site plan is required before permits are issued. A final (as-built) site plan may be required prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy and/or release of a bond. A good resource for a site plan is a survey issued for a recent mortgage or refinance closing or KGIS maps. 

A site plan includes the entire lot, drawn to scale, with the following:

• Lot lines with dimensions and road frontage shown.

• All existing and proposed buildings and structures with overall dimensions and, for proposed buildings and structures, the distance measured from all adjacent lines to the closest point of the proposed construction.

• Existing and proposed driveways, parking spaces, patios, pool decking, and walkways with area and surface material identified.

• All existing and proposed impervious surfaces clearly itemized and listed in square feet and as a percentage of the net lot size. This can be shown on the site plan or an attached impervious calculation worksheet.

• All easements, buffers and flood hazard areas (FEMA or flood-prone soils).

• Parcel identification number (PIN), address of property, north arrow, scale of the site plan, bar scale, and date map prepared (and any revision dates). 

• If parcel is less than 5 acres, scales of 1" = 20', 30', 40', 50', 60' or 100' are acceptable..

• For a parcel of 5 acres or more, scales of 1” = 100’, 200’, 300’, 400’ or 500’ are acceptable in addition to the scales listed above and may be on any size paper. If the paper is larger than 11” x 17”, or the scale is smaller than 1”=100’, an inset or separate sheet must also be provided showing the proposed construction at a scale of 1” = 20’, 30’, 40’, 50’, 60’ or 100’.

• As-built surveys must be labeled as such, be completed by a professional land surveyor and include all the above. The date the as-built is prepared must be on or after the initial building final.

Further information regarding requirements of the Storm Water Programs may be obtained from City of Knoxville Development Services at 865-215-3669.

**These are minimum requirements. Special circumstances or small lots may necessitate further requirements**

We live and work in an environment which is largely manmade. Tennessee law recognizes the need "to safeguard life, health and property, and to promote public welfare" in that environment by ensuring that design professionals — architects, engineers, landscape architects, and registered interior designers — who shape that environment are properly qualified. Through the State Board of Architectural and Engineering Examiners, the State sets standards for the education, experience, and performance of those who wish to practice these professions. 

In general, all structures must have plans prepared by design professionals registered by the Board. Plans and specifications for all structures classified as "assembly," "educational," and "institutional" in the Building Code must also be prepared by architects or engineers.  

The only exceptions to this requirement are:

• Structures classified as "business," "factory-industrial," "hazardous," "mercantile," "residential" and "storage" occupancies which are:

1. Less than three (3) stories in height; AND
2. Less than five thousand square feet (5,000 sq. ft.) in total gross area;

• One-family and two-family dwellings and domestic outbuildings pertaining thereto; 
• Farm buildings not designed or intended for human occupancy; and
• Sign that do not exceed either of the following limits (unless failure of the support system for the sign is likely to cause harm to people or property):

1. Any portion of the sign is twenty feet (20') or more above the ground level; or
2. Any portion of the sign is fifteen feet (15') or more above the ground level, and the sign has more than one hundred twenty square feet (120 sq.ft.) of total sign face area.

It should be noted that the law provides that any awarding authority, public or private, may require the services of a design professional for any project.

Whenever your project involves multiple permitting options you should always pick the most involved permit option to ensure all your bases are covered. 

• If you are adding a master suite (addition) and remodeling the kitchen (alteration) you would pick - Residential Addtion
• If you are building a detached garage (new) and adding a deck on the house (addition) you would pick - Residential New Construction

If you have questions please call the office at 865-215-3669 or email us at bldginspections@knoxvilletn.gov

A demolition permit is required when any building or structure is to be completely demolished. Partial demolitions or interior demolition is classified as an ALTERATION.

Typically, a demolition permit can be issued over-the-counter. In some instances, a site plan documenting the building(s) to be removed and/or a certificate of appropriateness needs to be submitted into the permanent records before the permit can be released. When this is the case you will be provided a link to upload your documents.

Any person who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure is required to first make application to the Building Inspections office.  In some cases, the requirement for a building permit can be waived by the building official, after review of the application.

The following types of work may be provided an exemption from the requirement for a building permit, when associated with an approved zoning plans review:

1. Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high. 

2. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route. 

3. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work. 

4. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery. 

5. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground. 

6. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems. 

7. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings. 

8. Window awnings in Group R-3 and U occupancies, supported by an exterior wall that do not project more than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the exterior wall and do not require additional support. 

9. Nonfixed and movable fixtures, cases, racks, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height.

Exemption from permit requirements does not grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of the code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. 

Projects for construction or alteration of buildings will be evaluated using both the construction codes and the zoning ordinance during the plans review process. 

Examples of IBC commercial type of projects would be:

1. Building any new structure other than a one-family dwelling, two-family dwelling, or townhouse. If you are working on an IRC residential project please back up and choose the residential projects option.

2. Changing the use or occupancy of an existing building or structure. 

3. Alterations, additions, or repairs to existing commercial buildings or structures.

Projects that do not involve the modification of a building will likely end up being a Certification project. These projects are primarily evaluated using the Zoning Code and do not generally permit any associated work or only allow work classified as exempt by the construction codes. 

Examples of this type of permit include:

1. Site reconfigurations not impacting a building or structure and not impacting accessibility of the site. 

2. Exterior modifications that are exempt from permit in established form districts throughout the city.

3. Accessory structures under 200 sq. ft. that exempt from building permits. 

Permits are valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. Permits must be closed or renewed prior to their expiration to prevent the issuance of a NOV (Notice of Violation) against the property. Having a NOV open on the property can create issues when you want the sell a property, apply for permits for property improvements, seek financing/refinancing with a lending institution, or have an insurance claim at the property.

The first time you are invited to join a project in KnoxPlans, you will receive an email notification. This email will contain a temporary password and a link to KnoxPlans. KnoxPlans uses pop-up windows (browser windows with no toolbars). If no KnoxPlans window appears when logging on, there may be a pop-up blocker installed that is preventing the main project window from opening. Allow pop-ups for the KnoxPlans site (pop-up blockers can be configured to allow pop-ups for specified sites).

To log in:

1. Click on the “Login to KnoxPlans” link. This will automatically open a login screen web browser. You can also open a web browser and type in your KnoxPlans URL (https://knoxville-tn-us.avolvecloud.com/Portal/Login/Index/KXTN-Prod).

2. Type or paste the temporary password into the Password Field and click Login. The password is case sensitive and must be entered exactly as it was provided to you in the email. If you have never logged into KnoxPlans with your default password, then you will not be able to reset your password. Once a successful login has occurred with a default (unencrypted) password, you will be taken to the Profile screen to enter a security question and answer, then the "Forgot Password?" link will be available to you. 

3.  Once you successfully log in, you will be taken to your user profile, where you will need to reset your password, create a security question    and answer, and enter some additional information about yourself.

4. Fill in the required fields (those marked with a red asterisk * (and highlighted), and click “Save.” You can return to this screen at any time by clicking on the “Profile” button on the Main Tool Bar.

5. After saving your profile information, you will be taken to the homepage, where your list of active projects will display.  If workflow is part of the configuration, then assignments, referred to as tasks may also display on the home page in the Task tab.

Logging in to KnoxPlans a second time (and every time after that); you will use the password that you entered in your User Profile page. After logging in, you will be taken to your home page. From this page, you can view the projects you have been invited to and all tasks for you to complete.

If you ever forget your password, click on the “Forgot Your Password?" link below the Login button. The use of the “Forgot Your Password?” link requires that the user has logged in at least once and no longer has a temporary password associated to their account

It is possible that the project you are looking for is listed under another email address. When you complete an application, if you enter an address other than the one that you usually use (maybe your personal email as opposed to the company email) the system will create a new account and attach the project there. 

If you contact the system administrator they should be able to locate your project and relocate it to the correct account. Note: Relocating projects to another account cannot be done to groups of projects.

The new version of KnoxPlans has a particular naming convention which is designed to provide better information to the review groups and allows for new tools which can speed up review times. All construction drawings uploaded into the drawings folder will have to adhere to the following standards:

• Files must be .pdf sheets
• Files must be single page pdf files
• Files must follow the naming convention of the system

The file naming convention is: one or two characters (see list) and three digits, optional period and two digits, dash, sheet name.

Examples of file naming:

• Sheet# is A201, File Name: A201-Exterior Elevations
• Sheet# is C1.1, File Name: C001.01-Grading
• Sheet# is T00, File Name: G000-Cover Sheet

Naming Convention Characters

• A: Architectural sheets
• S: Structural sheets
• E: Electrical sheets
• P: Plumbing sheets
• M: Mechanical sheets
• C: Civil sheets
• AS: Architectural Site Plan
• LS: Life Safety Plan
• FP: Fire Protection Plan
• L: Landscaping Plan
• G: General Sheets or Cover Sheet

The projects most likely to require a permit are those that change the structure or use of a building or have the potential to create unsafe working conditions. For example, you will likely need a building permit to:

• add or remove walls
• change the use of a room (such as by converting a garage to a living room)
• change the piping in your house
• re-roof your house, or
• demolish a portion of your house.

Projects that usually won't require a permit include:

• repainting your house
• adding kitchen cabinets
• replacing certain kitchen appliances

installing floor coverings

Timeframe for receiving a trade permit is often a few business days, construction related permits will vary depending on the complexity of the project. Our new online services are helping speed up this process but we live in a busy and ever growing city so the demand for permits is high. Please be patient when applying for permits. Please remember to monitor the email provided during the application phase as pertinent information and links will often be communicated through that email. 

Permits fees are based on the scope of work and valuation of the project. In computing the job cost, the estimate should include the total value of the work for which a permit is being issued including materials (both building materials and associated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment and other permanent systems) and all associated labor.  

Fee Schedule

Work should not begin until a permit has been issued. Application of a permit does not allow work to be started. If work is started without obtaining a permit additional fees may be added or a stop work order can be issued.

Work should not be started with the intent that a permit will be obtained later. Only in rare emergency repair occurrences outlined in IBC and IRC chapter 1 can work take place and a permit be issued after work is completed. 

The project scope and valuation will determine who can pull a permit. There are licensing laws from the state level, and guidelines from the City of Knoxville, which have been put in place in an attempt to help to protect property owners and the general public by ensuring that only qualified individuals are performing work on property in our community. Permits must be pulled by an individual who has been issued a valid license for the type of work they want to perform.

Temporary structures and uses are regulated by the Zoning ordinance and require, at minimum, some oversight to ensure compliance with local codes and ordinances. Examples of temporary structures and uses include a carnival or circus, christmas tree lot, tent or canopy, seasonal sale of farm produce, temporary construction lots or trailers, and portable storage containers. These uses are permitted using the Code Compliance Certification permit type. All requests will have supplemental information which must be uploaded and reviewed prior to release of permit. Requirements for permitting will vary depending on the structure or use being requested; the application process will provide additional details on these requirements.

Inspections can generally be scheduled for the next day if requested prior to 2pm. If the next day is not available prior to 2pm it means that the department already has more inspections scheduled than there is staff available.

All permits require a final inspection. If your project is a commercial property (not a 1-and 2-family dwelling), you will need final inspections from both the fire inspections office and the building inspections office. You may schedule the 940-Fire Final Inspection and 960-Building/Sign Final Inspection the same day IF you provide notice on both requests that you have doubled-up inspections.

The permit type and scope of work will determine what other inspection types are required. Your inspector is the best person to talk to about when they need to be involved. If your project included the review of plans, the back of your permit will provide you a basic list of required inspections based on the construction drawings submitted.