Building codes are the rules, regulations and specifications the Jefferson County uses to help ensure quality construction and a safe, finished structure.

 

 Jefferson County has adopted the 2006 International Residential Codes.

A building permit is a license required by County codes granting legal permission to construct, enlarge, or remodel a building.

 

A permit is required for substantial repairs, alterations, garages, new buildings and

additions. Question about when a permit is needed please contact the Building Department 865-397-0640 or Zoning Office 865-397-4414.

 

Please bring a copy of each item. Thank-you

 

If you, the Homeowner, obtain the permit, State Law requires you to act as the General Contractor and supervise all phase of the job. You must hire and supervise all Sub-Contractors shall be licensed.

 

If you have the permit in your name and hire a General Contractor to do the work then your permit must be re-issued in the name of your General Contractor who must follow State requirements.  

Yes. A homeowner is allowed one permit every two years to build their own house and act as their own contractor. If a homeowner hires a contractor, the contractor is required to be licensed and obtain the permit.

 

A homeowner should never obtain the permit on behalf of the contractor, as this alleviates the contractor form most liability and insurance requirements. In addition, the contracts should not be split in phases to circumvent the law. Anyone who is paid in excess of $25,000.00 is required to be licensed. Check the consumer tips for further information.

 

Also, make sure the contractor is licensed in the same name as listed on the contract and permit, to prevent the contractor using someone else’s license to circumvent the law. In addition, check the monetary limit and classification to ensure the contractor is legal to build the type and size project. For residential building, a BC-A or BC classification is needed. If a contractor joint ventures with another contractor due to not having a big enough monetary limits, make sure both contractors are properly licensed.

Additional information can be found at www.tennesse.gov/commercel/boards/contractors/.

According to 2006 IRC - Chapter#1-R105.5 Expiration: Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods of not more than 180 days each. The extension must be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

County code requires a permit to be issued when work is to be performed on a structure.  Inspections that follow the issuance of the permit may uncover unsatisfactory work, faulty materials or violations of the codes which could result in unsafe and hazardous conditions for you, your family, your employees or the general public.

 

When calling for an inspection, please have the building permit code number and the type of inspection. If you call before 3:00 p.m. you may receive an inspection the same day; if not, it will be the following day. It will depend on how many inspections are scheduled that day. Please remember inspection codes are specific to the job being performed. Check your inspection card for the appropriate inspection required for your job.

 

It is a document that certifies all inspections were made and approved by the Building Department and that the structure is ready for occupancy.