Memphis ADU Design & Inspection Checklist

Housing and Building Standards Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee homeowners and contractors planning an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) must follow city building and zoning rules to obtain permits and pass inspections. This checklist highlights design considerations, permit and inspection steps, enforcement contacts, and common violations to help you prepare compliant ADUs in Memphis. Where specific fines, fees, or deadlines are not published on the cited official pages, the text notes that fact. Current as of February 2026.

Design & Inspection Checklist

Use this checklist during design, permit application, and inspection planning. Confirm local zoning and setback rules before finalizing plans.

  • Site and setbacks: verify lot coverage, rear/side yard setbacks, and accessory structure placement.
  • Zoning use: confirm whether an ADU is allowed on the parcel under current Memphis zoning rules [2].
  • Building code compliance: structural design, foundations, framing, and roof load per adopted codes.
  • Fire and life-safety: egress windows/doors, smoke detectors, and separation where required.
  • MEP systems: plumbing, electrical, and HVAC plans sized for the ADU and tied into permits.
  • Inspections schedule: rough inspection, mechanical/plumbing/electrical inspections, final inspection and certificate of occupancy.
  • Timing: allow lead time for plan review and inspection scheduling; contractor timelines should include permit processing.
Confirm zoning and setbacks with the planning office before preparing construction drawings.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement for unlawful ADUs, construction without permits, or unsafe structures is handled by City of Memphis enforcement units and building inspection authorities; contact the city for complaints and case intake [1]. Specific fine amounts and daily penalties are not specified on the cited pages.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to abate or remove illegal structures, revocation of permits, and civil court actions may be applied by city authorities.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Code Enforcement and Building Inspections receive complaints, inspect, and issue orders; contact details and complaint intake are available from the city [1].
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and statutory time limits are not specified on the cited pages; check the municipal code for appeal procedures [2].
  • Defences and discretion: permits, variances, approved plans, and timely permit applications are typical defenses when enforcement actions are contested.

Applications & Forms

  • Building permit application: submit plans and permit applications through City of Memphis Permit Services; specific fee schedules or form numbers are not specified on the cited page [3].
  • Plan review: follow submittal checklist and plan review instructions provided by Permit Services; allow time for corrections and resubmittals.
  • Fees and escrow: see Permit Services for applicable fees and payment methods; if a fee is not listed on that page, it is not specified on the cited page [3].
File permit applications before starting construction to avoid stop-work orders.

FAQ

Do ADUs in Memphis require a building permit?
Yes. ADUs are subject to building permits and inspections; submit plans and applications through City of Memphis Permit Services [3].
How do I check whether my lot allows an ADU?
Check the Memphis municipal zoning code and consult Planning and Development for parcel-specific guidance [2].
What inspections will my ADU need?
Typical inspections include footing/foundation, framing, rough mechanical/plumbing/electrical, and final inspection for certificate of occupancy.

How-To

  1. Confirm zoning and allowable uses for your parcel by reviewing the municipal code and contacting Planning.
  2. Prepare architectural and engineering plans that meet building code and fire-safety requirements.
  3. Submit permit applications, plans, and required documents to Permit Services and pay applicable fees [3].
  4. Schedule and pass required inspections during construction; correct any deficiencies promptly.
  5. Obtain the final approval and certificate of occupancy before renting or occupying the ADU.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify zoning and setbacks before design.
  • Permits and inspections are required; submit through Permit Services.
  • Contact Code Enforcement or Building Inspections for complaints or clarifications [1].

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Code Enforcement - official complaint and contact page
  2. [2] Memphis Code of Ordinances - municipal zoning and code provisions
  3. [3] City of Memphis Permit Services - permits, plans, and fee information

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