Tullahoma

The zoning ordinance requires a building permit for all new free-standing buildings and for existing buildings or structures that are erected, located, moved, added to, or altered when the cost exceeds $500. The permit checklist also flags detached residential accessory structures larger than 200 square feet, decks, retaining walls, pools, signs, demolition, and other work.

• Exempt Face-change only signs do not require a permit.
• Exempt Minor cosmetic occupancy changes such as floor finish, interior paint or wallpaper, and display counters/shelving do not require a separate permit for the use-and-occupancy application.
• Exempt Some small accessory items may be exempt, but the city advises calling ahead when in doubt.

Building code

The city permit forms state Tullahoma has adopted the 2015 International Building Codes.

Permit validity

Many Tullahoma trade permit forms state permits are valid for 180 days after issuance and become void if work does not start within 180 days or is suspended/abandoned for 180 days.

Owner-builder

The forms allow property owner, business owner, homeowner, contractor, subcontractor, or authorized agent as applicant types; a separate owner authorization is required when an agent or contractor applies.

Contractor requirements

Tullahoma permit forms ask for the Tennessee contractor license number on applicable projects, and the sign permit form references state contractor licensing for projects over $25,000.

1. 01
   Determine whether the work requires a permit using the city checklist or the applicable permit form.
2. 02
   If the project needs zoning review, planning review, flood review, land disturbance, or DAC review, obtain those approvals first or in parallel.
3. 03
   Complete the permit application and supporting drawings, ownership authorization, and contractor information.
4. 04
   Submit the application by email or in person to the Building Codes Division.
5. 05
   Pay the applicable permit fee.
6. 06
   City review, corrections if needed, and permit issuance.
7. 07
   Schedule inspections with the Building Codes Division.

Typical processing time: The city does not publish a single general turnaround time on the pages reviewed. The third-party review program is intended to reduce permitting turnaround time.

Source: Building Codes Division, City of Tullahoma Planning and Codes Department ↗

Forms may be submitted to nabbott@tullahomatn.gov or in person. Some permit fees are paid at application.

Fees change periodically. Confirm at the official fee schedule ↗ before budgeting.

• The city states inspections are done within 2 business days of the call, and forms list the Building Codes Division phone number. (phone)

Inspection hours

Not publicly specified in the permit materials reviewed.

Time windows

Not publicly specified in the permit materials reviewed.

Typical sequence: Use and occupancy permits require planning and zoning inspection, building safety inspection, and fire department inspection. Mobile home guidelines also call for building permit, zoning, setback verification, stormwater, and driveway or culvert review where applicable.

Any code deficiencies found in inspection must be corrected before a permanent certificate of occupancy is issued.