Online Building Permits & Payments - Nashville Guide
Nashville, Tennessee property owners and contractors can apply for building permits, submit plans, and make payments through the city’s official online system. Start by reviewing permit types, documentation requirements, and fee schedules on the Metro Codes & Building Safety permits page: Apply for permits online[1]. This article explains each step, how to pay online, how inspections are scheduled, and how enforcement and appeals work so you can avoid delays and fines.
How to apply online
Before you apply, collect site plans, contractor license numbers if required, and contact information for the responsible party. Create an account on the city portal, upload required documents, complete the application form fields, and submit payment electronically. After submission you receive a tracking number and can monitor review status online.
- Prepare plans and documents in accepted formats.
- Complete the online permit application and attach files.
- Pay permit fees by credit card or electronic payment when prompted.
- Schedule inspections through the portal once the permit is issued.
Penalties & Enforcement
Metro Nashville enforces building regulations through the Department of Codes and Building Safety. Specific fine amounts for work without a permit are not listed on the cited municipal permit pages; see the City Code for ordinance provisions and penalties.[2]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited permit page; consult the municipal code for section-specific penalties.[2]
- Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing-offence treatment is not specified on the cited permit page and depends on ordinance provisions.[2]
- Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, correction orders, permit revocation, and court actions may be used by the enforcing department.
- Enforcer and inspections: Department of Codes and Building Safety handles inspections, compliance, and complaints; contact details are on the department contact page.[3]
- Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set by ordinance or departmental rules and should be confirmed on the municipal code or by contacting the department; where not specified, see the cited code.[2]
Applications & Forms
The city’s online permits page provides application entry points and system access. Specific printable form names or form numbers are not listed on the primary permits landing page; use the portal to start an application or contact the department for PDF forms and special permits.[1]
FAQ
- Do small repairs need a permit?
- No simple rule is universal; minor repairs may be exempt but many structural, electrical, plumbing, or mechanical changes require permits—check the permit types on the official page and the municipal code for exemptions.[1]
- How do I pay permit fees online?
- Payments are accepted through the city’s online permit portal during application or via the city payment system linked from the permits page.
- How do I report unpermitted construction?
- File a complaint or request an inspection with the Department of Codes and Building Safety using their contact page and complaint procedures.[3]
How-To
- Create a user account on the Metro permits portal.
- Start a new permit application and select the correct permit type.
- Upload plans, specifications, and contractor information as required.
- Submit the application and pay fees electronically.
- Monitor review status and schedule inspections when the permit is issued.
- If you disagree with enforcement action, follow the appeal steps in the municipal code or contact the department for review timelines.
Key Takeaways
- Use the official Metro permits portal to apply, pay, and track your permit.
- Major projects typically require licensed contractors and detailed plans.
- Contact the Department of Codes and Building Safety for inspections, complaints, and appeals.
Help and Support / Resources
- Metro Codes & Building Safety - Permits
- Codes & Building Safety - Contact
- Metro Nashville Code of Ordinances
- Metro Planning Department