Bolthole Index

Davidson County, Tennessee

Building permits, zoning and land rules in Davidson County, Tennessee

50Index Score / 100
#95 of 95 in Tennessee

Davidson County, Tennessee requires a Metro Codes building permit for new homes and many residential alterations1. Metro zoning applies countywide, with allowed uses and development standards determined parcel by parcel2,3. Metro Public Health handles local septic administration4.

Do you need a building permit in Davidson County, Tennessee?

Yes.

Yes. Davidson County requires a Metro building permit for new residential buildings, additions, mobile or modular homes, accessory structures, pools, habitable-space conversions, specified alterations and demolitions; normal maintenance repairs described by Metro are excluded1. A site plan accompanies a residential construction permit application1. Metro adopted the 2024 international building, trade, accessibility and energy standards in 20255. Tennessee's state residential permit program serves jurisdictions without local code enforcement, so it does not replace Metro Codes review in Davidson County5,9.

Who is the Davidson County building department, and how do you reach it?

The Metro Nashville Department of Codes and Building Safety handles building permits, plan review and inspections for Davidson County.

The Metro Nashville Department of Codes and Building Safety handles building permits, plan review and inspections for Davidson County2. Its office is at 800 President Ronald Reagan Way, 1st Floor, Nashville, TN 37210; call 615-862-65002. Residential applications can be made through ePermits2. Metro assigns the application to a Zoning Examiner, routes it for required agency approvals and signoffs, then issues the permit after approval and payment2. New-home fees are valuation-based, remodeling fees use actual improvement value, and separate fees apply to plumbing, electrical and gas/mechanical permits2. A qualifying owner-occupant may use a self-permit, but must accept code responsibility, submit notarized affidavits and cannot self-permit a detached accessory dwelling unit1. The workers' compensation exemption does not waive code compliance, trade permits or inspections7.

Does Davidson County have zoning?

Yes.

Yes. Metro zoning covers Davidson County, and each parcel's allowed uses and development standards follow its zone district2,3. Metro publishes its zoning classifications, while overlays and Specific Plans can add to or change the base district rules3,10. Minimum lot area, setbacks, lot coverage and height are district-specific, not universal county rules10. Metro's RS5 example has a minimum 5,000-square-foot lot, but that example does not govern differently zoned parcels10. Metro's occupancy table limits occupants according to floor area; it does not establish a general countywide minimum dwelling size11. Call Metro Planning at 615-862-7190 for zoning, subdivision or development questions12.

How do septic permits work in Davidson County?

Davidson County is a contract county for septic permit and Certificate of Completion packages, while Metro Public Health administers local septic review and enforcement.

Davidson County is a contract county for septic permit and Certificate of Completion packages, while Metro Public Health administers local septic review and enforcement4,13. Metro Public Health is at 2500 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville, TN 37209; call 615-340-56164. A conventional septic system serving a residence or accessory building requires a permit before installation14. Once installation is complete, the installer must arrange a final inspection before covering the system; approval leads to a Certificate of Completion6. Site evaluation matters because only about 16.1% of mapped Davidson County soils avoid severe limits for a conventional drain field15. If a qualifying bonded sanitary sewer serves the street, the utility may require connection instead of continued use of another sewage-disposal method16.

Can you live in an RV or tiny home on your land in Davidson County?

We could not confirm a general Davidson County rule allowing long-term RV living, private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy.

We could not confirm a general Davidson County rule allowing long-term RV living, private-land camping or tiny-home occupancy. Metro zoning still controls every parcel, and the district, overlays and Specific Plans determine the permitted use and dimensional standards2,10. Ask Metro Planning whether the proposed dwelling and occupancy are allowed on the specific parcel before buying or placing a unit12. A qualifying owner-occupant may self-permit a single-family residence but cannot use that route for a detached accessory dwelling unit1. Metro's floor-area table regulates occupancy loads, not whether a tiny home is an allowed dwelling type on a particular parcel11.

How do you build a home in Davidson County, step by step?

Confirm the parcel's use, lot size, setbacks, coverage, height, overlays and any Specific Plan with Metro Planning.

  1. Confirm the parcel's use, lot size, setbacks, coverage, height, overlays and any Specific Plan with Metro Planning3,10,12.
  2. Check flood mapping early: all development in a Special Flood Hazard Area needs local permits, and residential floors in the floodplain must sit four feet above the base flood elevation17.
  3. If sewer is unavailable, coordinate the septic construction permit with Metro Public Health4,14.
  4. Submit the site plan and residential application to Metro Codes, then complete each required agency signoff and pay the valuation-based and trade-permit fees1,2.
  5. Follow the issued inspection checklist and obtain separate trade inspections where applicable2.
  6. After final building and trade inspections, obtain the Use and Occupancy letter2.

What should you check before buying land in Davidson County?

Start with parcel zoning, sewer availability, septic suitability, flood exposure and legal access.

Start with parcel zoning, sewer availability, septic suitability, flood exposure and legal access. Every development in a Special Flood Hazard Area requires local permits; floodplain fill must be balanced by an equal volume of cut, and floodway development is prohibited with few exceptions8. Altering floodplain land or drainage channels also requires written approval from the Metro water-services director17. For an unsewered lot, ask Metro Public Health about soils and system design before treating acreage as buildable4,15. A driveway connecting to state highway right-of-way requires a separate TDOT entrance permit18. Subdivision review has separate sewage-disposal and site requirements, and accessible public water can trigger infrastructure conditions19,20.

Watch-outs

  • A Metro building permit comes with a project-specific inspection checklist, and the final Use and Occupancy letter follows completion of required building and trade inspections2.
  • Floodplain rules reach more than buildings: all development in a Special Flood Hazard Area requires local permits, and larger land-disturbance work can also require a grading permit8.
  • A floodway is substantially more restrictive than the broader floodplain: development is prohibited with few exceptions8.
  • Metro zoning has no single universal lot size, setback, coverage or height rule; the parcel's district, overlays and Specific Plans control10.
  • We could not confirm a general private-well rule or a complete countywide local driveway rule; ask Metro Public Health about a proposed well and Metro Planning about access before relying on either4,12.

Sources

20 official pages, each quoted and re-checked · written October 4, 2026

  1. Residential Building Permit Procedures
  2. Building Permit Process
  3. Building Permit Process
  4. Septic and Sewage Disposal Systems
  5. Adopted Codes for Metro Nashville
  6. Subsurface Sewage Disposal System Frequently Asked Questions
  7. Metro Nashville Codes Administration, Affidavit of Exemption
  8. Build Responsibly to Prevent Flood Damage
  9. Residential Permit FAQs (Tennessee statewide rule)
  10. Understanding the Zoning Code
  11. Property Standards Code Violation Categories
  12. Metro Nashville Planning Department (nashville.gov)
  13. Third-Party Permits & Final Inspections
  14. Online Application for Septic Related Services
  15. Share of soils USDA rates "not limited" for a conventional septic drain field (SSURGO). A strict rating: the median county is about 6% and a tenth of counties are 0%, so a low figure means most lots need a site evaluation or an engineered system, not that septic is impossible. Cite it only with that caveat: Bolthole Index county data
  16. Utility Customers Frequently Asked Questions (Tennessee statewide rule)
  17. Metropolitan Nashville–Davidson County Stormwater Management Manual, Volume 1 - Regulations, 2026, Volume 1 Appendix A
  18. Highway Entrance Permits (Tennessee statewide rule)
  19. Regulations to Govern Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems
  20. Metro Nashville Subdivision Regulations Amended January 21, 2021

Written October 4, 2026 from the rules quoted below, each taken from an official source and re-checked by an independent reviewer. This is research, not legal advice: rules change, so confirm with the office before you buy or build.

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Compared with neighboring counties

Like all 6 of its neighbors, Davidson County requires a building permit for a home.

RuleDavidson CountyCheatham CountyWilliamson CountyRobertson CountySumner CountyWilson CountyRutherford County
Building permitRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
County zoningYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Septic permitsMetro Public Health Dept.TDECWilliamson CountyTDECTDECTDECTDEC

County locator

Davidson County in Tennessee

50
County map
Davidson County highlighted among the Tennessee counties · colored by Index score

How Davidson County scores

50 / 100 · #95 of 95 in Tennessee · six factors, land price, tax, rain and climate

Seclusion18100% ev.
Self-Sufficiency67100% ev.
Admin Boringness46100% ev.
Durability70100% ev.
Property Autonomy71100% ev.
Carry Cost55100% ev.

Evidence strength: 100%. This reports direct-source completeness and fallback use; it is separate from the score and is not a confidence interval. How it works →

$435kTypical home
0.6%Property tax
$12,414Land / acre
52.1"Annual rain
2.5% of yrsSevere drought
12.3 / yr (+11.1)Mid-century 100°F days
15.8 daysMid-century dry spell
2.47" (+8.5%)Mid-century 1-day rain
1.55×Wildfire change factor
100%Forward climate coverage
$1,760Home insurance / yr
1.6% / yrInsurance growth
1.3%Nonrenewal rate
county median (2+ published ZIPs)Insurance basis
910,935People within 30 min
4,158,910People within 2 hr
716,475Radius comparison (15 mi)
1,414.2People / sq mi
5.8%Federal land
72.8%Land at 15% slope or less
16.1%Soils rated "not limited" for septic (strict USDA rating)
47,669 acWorkable land screen
57.5 tonsBiomass / forest ac
59.2°FAvg temp

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Cities and towns in Davidson County

Inside a city or town, that city usually issues building permits and sets zoning; the county’s rules above cover unincorporated land. Septic, wells and floodplain rules usually stay with the county or state everywhere.

Answers from the rulebook for Davidson County

What the ordinances and state agencies actually say — one answer per question, each quoted from the official source and independently re-checked.

Davidson County rules

  • Building permitRequired

    Residential construction and listed residential alterations in Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County.

    • A permit is required for new residential buildings, additions, mobile or modular homes, accessory structures, pools, habitable-space conversions, specified alterations, and demolitions.
    • Normal maintenance repairs described on the official page are not required to obtain a building permit.
    • A site plan is required for residential construction permits.

    construction-plan threshold: > 5000 square feet (Construction plans are required for residences exceeding 5,000 square feet in floor area.) · height-plan threshold: > 3 stories (Plans are reviewed for homes containing more than 3 stories in height.)

    “A building permit is required under the following circumstances:”
  • Owner-builder exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    A permit applicant performing or directly supervising work on the applicant's own property in the applicant's own county of residence.

    • The applicant must sign the department's affidavit of exemption.
    • The exemption concerns proof of workers' compensation insurance; it does not waive building-code compliance or required inspections.
    • The self-building-permit holder remains responsible for code compliance and requesting all required inspections.
    • Separate electrical, plumbing, and gas/mechanical permits are required.
    “A permit applicant may claim an exemption to the requirements of this law because either (a) applicant is not required to obtain workers’ compensation coverage under T. C. A. §§ 50-6-104 through 106, or (b) applicant performs work on the applicant’s own property in the applicant’s own county of residence, or (c) applicant directly supervises work on the applicant’s own property in applicant’s own county of residence.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Available (with conditions) — An owner who presently occupies or intends to occupy a single-family residence.
      “commonly referred to as a "Self Permit."”
    • Available (with conditions) — A property owner who presently occupies or intends to occupy a single-family residence may obtain a self-permit.
      “A property owner who presently occupies or intends to occupy a Single Family residence may obtain a building permit to construct or repair a residence. This is commonly referred to as a "Self Permit."”
  • Building code adoptedAdopted (with conditions)

    Residential, commercial, building-trade, accessibility, and energy work permitted in Davidson County under BL2025-898.

    • The adopted codes include local amendments.
    • The official source lists the 2024 International Building Code, 2024 International Residential Code, 2024 International Existing Building Code, 2024 International Fuel/Gas Code, 2024 International Mechanical Code, 2024 International Plumbing Code, 2024 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, 2024 International Energy Conservation Code, 2023 National Electrical Code, and 2017 ICC A117.1.

    effective date: 2025-07-16 (180-day grace period for projects with preliminary designs under the 2018 International Building Code)

    “The ordinance was signed into law by Mayor Freddie O'Connell on July 16, 2025, and establishes regulatory standards for all building and trades work permitted in Davidson County.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Adopted (with conditions) — Current Metro Chapter 16 code editions after BL2025-898.
      “On July 15, 2025, the Metropolitan Council of Nashville and Davidson County unanimously approved final passage of BL2025-898, officially adopting the 2024 International Codes Council's building, trades, accessibility, and energy standards.”
  • InspectionsRequired

    Permitted residential and trade construction projects.

    • The inspection checklist identifies inspections necessary to complete the project and obtain the Use and Occupancy Certificate.
    • Electrical, plumbing, gas/mechanical, and low-voltage work requires separate permits and inspections.
    “Upon payment and issuance of the building permit, an inspection checklist is also issued identifying which inspections are necessary to complete the project and obtain the Use and Occupancy Certificate.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Permitted residential construction and associated trade work.
      “Upon payment and issuance of the building permit, an inspection checklist is also issued identifying which inspections are necessary to complete the project and obtain the Use and Occupancy Certificate.”
    • Required — Permitted building projects in Metro Nashville and Davidson County.
      “Upon payment and issuance of the building permit, an inspection checklist is also issued identifying which inspections are necessary to complete the project and obtain the Use and Occupancy Certificate.”
  • Certificate of occupancyRequired

    Projects requiring final Metro building and trade inspections.

    • After all building and trade inspections, the applicant must contact the Use and Occupancy Division to obtain the final Use and Occupancy letter.
    • The official page calls this a Use and Occupancy Certificate or Letter.
    “After all building inspections and trade inspections have taken place contact the Use and Occupancy Division to obtain your final Use and Occupancy letter.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Required — Projects requiring building and trade inspections.
      “After all building inspections and trade inspections have taken place contact the Use and Occupancy Division to obtain your final Use and Occupancy letter.”
    • Required — Projects requiring a final Use and Occupancy Certificate or letter after building and trade inspections.
      “After all building inspections and trade inspections have taken place contact the Use and Occupancy Division to obtain your final Use and Occupancy letter.”
  • County-wide zoningPresent (with conditions)

    Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County parcels subject to applicable zone-district classifications.

    • Uses are permitted according to the applicable zone district classification.
    • This claim describes the consolidated Metro countywide system, not a separate county ordinance outside Metro government.
    “Approximately 240,000 parcels of property exist within Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County, and each is currently zoned for a wide array of uses permitted by the applicable zone district classification, as shown in our Zoning Land Use Table.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Present (with conditions) — Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County parcels subject to applicable Metro zone-district classifications.
      “Approximately 240,000 parcels of property exist within Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County, and each is currently zoned for a wide array of uses permitted by the applicable zone district classification, as shown in our Zoning Land Use Table.”
  • Local zoningVaries (with conditions)

    County aggregate of Metro Nashville and Davidson County zoning; parcel rules vary by zone district, overlay, and specific plan.

    • The conclusion aggregates parcel-level Metro zoning rather than asserting that a separate county office administers every local rule.
    • Overlays and Specific Plans may add or alter standards.
    “These overlays are in addition to the base zoning of the property. If that is the case, then the property could have restrictions or rights granted to the property that don’t exist in the base zoning.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning controls across Davidson County parcels.
      “Many properties in Nashville will only have one zoning code current and applicable to their property. At that point, the land use table and bulk district regulations to understand permitted uses, lot requirements, setbacks and more on the property.”
    • Varies (with conditions) — Aggregate local zoning conclusion for Davidson County; individual parcels are governed by the applicable Metro zone district and its use, density, placement, and bulk rules.
      “Zoning classifications for property in Metropolitan Nashville & Davidson County are listed below.”
  • Zoning districtsPublished (with conditions)

    Zoning classifications used in Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County.

    • The official classification page lists agricultural, single-family, one- and two-family, multifamily, mobile-home park, mixed-use, office, commercial, shopping-center, and industrial classifications.
    • District-specific rules and overlays must be checked for the parcel.
    “Zoning classifications for property in Metropolitan Nashville & Davidson County are listed below.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Metro Nashville and Davidson County zoning districts and parcel overlays.
      “Below are some examples of zoning codes you might encounter when reviewing properties that might result in different rules than those out outline in Zoning Code:”
    • Published (with conditions) — Current parcel zoning and associated land-use and bulk-regulation tables.
      “Many properties in Nashville will only have one zoning code current and applicable to their property.”
  • Minimum dwelling sizeSpecified

    Dwelling units subject to Metropolitan Code Section 16.24.400 and its minimum-area occupancy requirements in Davidson County.

    • Section 16.24.400 applies minimum area requirements to dwelling-unit occupancy; it does not state a single universal minimum gross floor area for every dwelling.
    • Each bedroom occupied by one person must contain at least 70 square feet; a bedroom occupied by more than one person must contain at least 50 square feet per occupant.
    • Table 16.24.400 specifies minimum living-room areas of no requirement for 1-2 occupants, 120 square feet for 3-5 occupants, and 150 square feet for 6 or more occupants.
    • Table 16.24.400 specifies minimum dining-room areas of no requirement for 1-2 occupants, 80 square feet for 3-5 occupants, and 100 square feet for 6 or more occupants.
    • Table 16.24.400 specifies minimum kitchen areas of 50 square feet for 1-2 occupants, 50 square feet for 3-5 occupants, and 60 square feet for 6 or more occupants.
    • Combined living-room and dining-room spaces must equal the area required for separate rooms and function as a combination living/dining space.
    • An efficiency living unit occupied by not more than two occupants must have at least 220 square feet of clear floor area; a unit occupied by three occupants must have at least 320 square feet, exclusive of the areas required for the kitchen and bathroom facilities described in Section 16.24.400(M)(2)-(3).
    • An efficiency living unit has a maximum occupancy of three.
    • The official Metro property-standards page states that dwelling units may not be occupied by more occupants than permitted by Table 16.24.400.

    bedroom area for one occupant: >= 70 square feet · bedroom area per occupant when more than one occupant: >= 50 square feet per occupant · living room area for 3-5 occupants: >= 120 square feet · living room area for 6 or more occupants: >= 150 square feet · dining room area for 3-5 occupants: >= 80 square feet · dining room area for 6 or more occupants: >= 100 square feet · kitchen area for 1-2 occupants: >= 50 square feet · kitchen area for 3-5 occupants: >= 50 square feet · kitchen area for 6 or more occupants: >= 60 square feet · efficiency unit area for up to 2 occupants: >= 220 square feet (exclusive of kitchen and bathroom areas) · efficiency unit area for 3 occupants: >= 320 square feet (exclusive of kitchen and bathroom areas) · efficiency unit maximum occupants: <= 3 occupants

    “An efficiency unit may be occupied by not more than two (2) occupants, provided the dwelling contains a clear floor area of at least two hundred twenty (220) square feet excluding the kitchen and bathroom.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Specified — Dwelling-unit occupancy in Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County under the Metropolitan Code's property-standards occupancy provisions.
      “Dwelling units shall not be occupied by more occupants than are permitted by the minimum area requirements of Table 16.24.400 of the Metropolitan Code of Laws.”
    • Specified — Efficiency living units and occupied dwelling units subject to the Metropolitan Property Standards Code in Davidson County.
      “An efficiency living unit occupied by not more than two occupants shall have a clear floor area of not less than two hundred and twenty (220) square feet. A unit occupied by three occupants shall have a clear floor area of not less than three hundred and twenty (320) square feet. These required areas shall be exclusive of the areas required by Items 2 and 3.”
  • Minimum lot sizeSpecified

    Residential zoning districts in Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County.

    • The minimum varies by zoning district; the official classification page lists examples including RS80, RS40, RS30, RS20, RS15, RS10, RS7.5, RS5, and RS3.75.

    RS5 minimum lot size: 5000 sq ft · RS40 minimum lot size: 40000 sq ft · MHP minimum lot size: 2 acre (minimum 2-acre lot size for the mobile home park district)

    “Zoning classifications for property in Metropolitan Nashville & Davidson County are listed below.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Specified — Example RS5 single-family parcel described by the Metro zoning guidance.
      “In the example given, the property at 141 Elmhurst Ave is zoned RS5, which encourages medium density residential properties, with a minimum of 5,000 square feet per lot intended for single-family dwellings.”
  • SetbacksSpecified

    Residential development subject to Metro zoning district and overlay standards.

    • The example official guidance states 20-foot rear and 5-foot side setbacks for an RS5 example parcel.
    • Street setbacks are 20 feet on minor-local and local streets and 40 feet on all other streets in the cited example.
    • Overlay, specific-plan, and established-development-pattern rules may alter the applicable standards.

    example RS5 rear setback: 20 ft · example RS5 side setback: 5 ft

    “Street setbacks for single and two-family structures are listed in Metro Code 17.12.030, which shows a minimum 20 foot setback on minor-local and local streets, and a 40 foot setback on all other streets.”
  • Lot coverageSpecified

    Residential development subject to the applicable Metro zoning district and overlays.

    • The official page provides a 50% building-coverage example for an RS5 parcel; actual coverage depends on the parcel's district and overlays.

    example maximum building coverage: 50 percent (RS5 example parcel)

    “The District Bulk Tables (Metro Code 17.12.020) show that this parcel is approved for a single-family dwelling with a maximum height of 3 stories, a maximum of 50% building coverage on the lot, a minimum 20 foot rear setback, and 5 foot side setback.”
  • Building heightSpecified

    Residential development subject to Metro zoning district and overlay standards.

    • The official example states a maximum height of three stories; accessory-structure height varies by lot size and overlay.
    • Overlay and Specific Plan standards may add or change height restrictions.

    example maximum height: 3 stories (RS5 example parcel)

    “The District Bulk Tables (Metro Code 17.12.020) show that this parcel is approved for a single-family dwelling with a maximum height of 3 stories, a maximum of 50% building coverage on the lot, a minimum 20 foot rear setback, and 5 foot side setback.”
  • Who permits septicMixed (with conditions)

    Subsurface sewage disposal systems in Davidson County, where Tennessee establishes the SSDS framework and Davidson County is identified as a contract county for permit and certificate-of-completion packages.

    • TDEC rules and statutes govern the statewide SSDS program.
    • For Davidson County contract-county sites, permit and Certificate of Completion packages are submitted directly to the contract county.
    • Metro Public Health Department provides local septic and sewage-disposal services.
    “Permit packages and Certificate of Completion Packages for sites located in the contract counties listed below should be submitted directly to the contract county.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Local — On-site subsurface sewage disposal systems in Davidson County.
      “the division seeks to develop, review, and enforce”
    • Local (with conditions) — On-site subsurface sewage disposal administration in Davidson County through the Metro Public Health Department.
      “Working alongside landowners, developers, surveyors and other governmental agencies, the division seeks to develop, review, and enforce the rules and regulations designed to minimize public health hazards, as well as, the environmental impact of subsurface sewage disposal systems.”
  • Septic permitRequired

    Installation of septic tanks, disposal fields, or individual/private sewage disposal systems under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County.

    • Septic systems may be constructed where no public sewerage system is available or is unlikely to become available within a reasonable time.
    • Private domestic sewage treatment and disposal systems must be discontinued and adequately abandoned when public sewers become available to the building served.
    • No plumbing permit may be issued until satisfactory evidence of approval by the Metropolitan Department of Health is submitted to the Department of Codes Administration.
    • For approved and recorded subdivisions, the approval notification consists of a Health Department letter covering each subdivided lot.
    • Commercial and public buildings proposed in an unsewered area must submit detailed sewage-disposal plans and specifications to the Sanitary Engineering Division of the Metropolitan Health Department for approval before construction.
    • Plans must include the building and system location, distances to wells, lot lines, lakes, streams or other watercourses, ground slope, expected use and occupancy, soil borings, and percolation-test data; one stamped set must remain at the project site.
    “No plumbing permit shall be issued for the installation of any septic tank or disposal field or for any individual or private sewage disposal system until satisfactory evidence of approval of such system, by the Metropolitan Department of Health, has been submitted to the Department of Codes Administration.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — Residential building permit applications in Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County involving a private sewage disposal system, including a septic tank and overflow.
      “A typical example of this is an applicant applying for a permit which is served by a private sewage disposal system (septic tank and overflow). This will require an approval from the Metropolitan Health Department prior to issuance of a permit that involves items 1-7, above.”
  • Mandatory utility hookupConditional

    Subdivision utility infrastructure and sanitary-sewer connection requirements.

    • See the separate utility-connection claim for the one-acre residential-lot exception and Health Department approval condition.
    “Where a public water main is within reasonable access of the subdivision, the applicant shall install water facilities, including fire hydrants, subject to the construction and materials specifications of the Metropolitan Department of Water Services, or applicable Utility District.”
  • Building in a floodplainLimited

    Alterations, fill, buildings, and other development within regulated floodplain areas of Metropolitan Nashville-Davidson County, including areas demonstrated by competent engineering to lie within a floodplain.

    • Uses permitted within the floodplain must comply with Article V of Chapter 17.36 of the Metropolitan Code.
    • No alteration of floodplain land or drainage channels may be made without written approval of the Director of the Department of Water and Sewerage Services.
    • A registered and licensed Tennessee professional engineer must prepare a plan showing existing and proposed elevations, drainage channels, and structures.
    • The Director must approve the plan and certify that the proposed alteration or construction will not increase flooding in other areas.
    • Human-occupancy portions of structures must have a minimum floor elevation at least four feet above the base flood elevation.
    • Portions not intended for human occupancy and related electrical, water-service, and sanitary-sewer facilities must be at least one foot above the base flood elevation.
    • Floodproofing for structures not intended for human occupancy is authorized only as an individual exception by the Director when engineering evidence shows it is acceptable.
    • Excavation, filling, or channel realignment under U.S. Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction requires Corps approval.
    • The Metropolitan Planning Commission must approve the plan, taking the stated conditions and other pertinent factors into account.
    • Land demonstrated by competent engineering to lie beyond the floodplain is not subject to Article V floodplain regulations.

    minimum floor elevation for human occupancy: >= 4 feet above base flood elevation · minimum elevation for non-human-occupancy portions and related utilities: >= 1 foot above base flood elevation

    “No alterations of floodplain land and drainage channels may be made without the written approval of the director”
    6 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Development in designated floodway areas within Metro Nashville-Davidson County.
      “Development in the floodway is prohibited (with few exceptions).”
    • Required — All development in Special Flood Hazard Areas within Metro Nashville-Davidson County, including land disturbance, new structures, and improvements or additions to existing structures.
      “All developments in Special Flood Hazard Areas (not just construction of buildings) require local permits.”
    • Limited — Residential structures, fill, development in the floodway, and new or significant redevelopment in Metro Nashville-Davidson County floodplains.
      “Metro's Stormwater Management Regulations require that all residential structures built in the floodplain must be constructed with the lowest finished floor elevation located four feet above the 1-percent-annual chance flood elevation. Any fill placed in the floodplain must be offset with an equal volume of cut removed from the floodplain. Development in the floodway is prohibited (with few exceptions).”
    • Limited — New structures and other development within regulated floodways in Metropolitan Nashville-Davidson County.
      “No new structure shall be constructed within the floodway. [...] the stormwater division may allow the construction of the following types of structures within the floodway,”
    • Limited — Residential structures and other development in floodplains and floodways within Metro Nashville-Davidson County.
      “Development in the floodway is prohibited (with few exceptions).”
    • Required — Development in Special Flood Hazard Areas in Metro Nashville-Davidson County.
      “All developments in Special Flood Hazard Areas (not just construction of buildings) require local permits.”
  • Short-term rentalsLimited

    Owner-occupied short-term rental properties in Davidson County under the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County zoning and permit system.

    • The property must be an owner-occupied residence or be on a lot with an owner-occupied residence.
    • The rental is limited to up to four sleeping rooms, or, if only part of the unit is rented, at least one sleeping room and a bathroom; rental is limited to a single party.
    • The owner must permanently reside at the property and be a natural person; LLCs, corporations, trusts, partnerships, joint ventures, and other entities are ineligible for owner-occupied permits.
    • Four current proof-of-owner-occupation documents are required, with two from Group A and two from Group B; the documents must show the owner's name and address matching the property.
    • Primary-residence documentation must match the deed as recorded with the Register of Deeds office.
    • Only one permit may be issued per lot in single-family and two-family zoning districts.
    • Two-family units cannot have divided ownership; they must be owned by the same person and one unit must be the owner's primary residence. Detached duplexes divided under a Horizontal Property Regime may qualify.
    • Specific Plan and Planned Unit Development properties receive permits only if allowed by the applicable SP or PUD.
    • Applicants must provide proof of payment of all taxes due, including property taxes and, for renewals, applicable room, occupancy, and sales taxes.
    • Written notification is required to the owner of each adjacent property; adjacent means the property in front, behind, and to the sides, and if applicable above and below.
    • Homeowner's fire, hazard, and liability insurance is required, with liability coverage of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence.
    • The property must comply with applicable state and local building and fire safety codes; signs, noise, waste management, occupancy, responsible-party, tax, and other operation rules apply.
    • The maximum occupancy is twice the number of permitted sleeping rooms plus four, with a maximum of 12; simultaneous rental to more than one party under separate contracts is prohibited.
    • The principal renter must be at least 21 years old; no compensation may be received for occupancy of less than 24 hours.
    • The permit expires 365 days after issuance unless renewed before expiration, may not be transferred or assigned, may be revoked after three violations or false or misleading application information, and changes in ownership cancel the permit.

    maximum sleeping rooms: <= 4 rooms (Owner-occupied STRP permit.) · maximum occupants: <= 12 persons (Also limited to twice the number of permitted sleeping rooms plus four.) · minimum liability coverage: >= 1000000 USD per occurrence · permit duration: 365 days (Unless renewed before expiration.) · minimum renter age: >= 21 years · minimum rental period: >= 24 hours (No compensation may be received for occupancy of less than 24 hours.)

    “To qualify for an owner-occupied permit, the owner of the property must permanently reside at the property and be a natural person or persons.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Limited — Short-term-rental properties operating in Davidson County under Metro STRP rules.
      “The maximum number of occupants permitted on a property at any one time shall not exceed more than twice the number of permitted sleeping rooms plus four (maximum of 12).”
    • Limited — New and existing not-owner-occupied short-term rental properties in Davidson County under the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County zoning and permit system.
      “New not owner-occupied permits are not permitted in AR2A, R, RS, or RM zoned properties.”
  • Permit feesPublished

    Metro building permits and related trade permits.

    • New residential building-permit fees are based on valuation figures.
    • Residential remodeling and commercial-work fees are based on actual improvement value.
    • Separate trade-permit fees apply for plumbing, electrical, and gas/mechanical work.
    • The page directs applicants to the Fee Schedule for current amounts.
    “Fees for building permits involving new residential structures are charged based on the valuation figures. Fees for residential remodeling and all commercial work are based on the actual value of the improvements. Separate fees are charged for trade permits: plumbing, electrical, and gas/mechanical.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published (with conditions) — Metro building and trade permit fees.
      “Fees for building permits involving new residential structures are charged based on the valuation figures. Fees for residential remodeling and all commercial work are based on the actual value of the improvements. Separate fees are charged for trade permits: plumbing, electrical, and gas/mechanical.”
    • Published (with conditions) — Metro building permits and related trade permits.
      “Fees for building permits involving new residential structures are charged based on the valuation figures. Fees for residential remodeling and all commercial work are based on the actual value of the improvements. Separate fees are charged for trade permits: plumbing, electrical, and gas/mechanical.”
  • Permit processPublished (with conditions)

    Residential and commercial building-permit applications in Metro Nashville and Davidson County.

    • Applications go to the Zoning Help Desk or ePermits.
    • The application is assigned to a Zoning Examiner.
    • Required Metro-agency approvals and signoffs must be obtained.
    • Commercial plans generally require electronic submission through the e-plan system.
    • Payment and issuance occur after approvals; the inspection checklist then identifies required inspections.
    “Once received, the permit application will be assigned to a Zoning Examiner.”
    2 more reviewed findings on this topic
    • Published — Residential and commercial building-permit applications handled through Metro Codes.
      “To apply for a Residential or Commercial permit, submit your permitting documents to the Zoning Help Desk or Registered contractors can apply for residential building permits by visiting ePermits.”
    • Published — Metro residential and commercial building-permit application, review, approval, payment, inspection, and closeout process.
      “Once received, the permit application will be assigned to a Zoning Examiner.”

Tennessee rules that apply here

  • Camping on your landLimited

    Overnight camping on Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency-controlled Wildlife Management Areas and related lands where overnight camping is allowed.

    • Overnight camping may be permitted only in designated areas and by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor.
    • Camping is subject to limitations prescribed in the permit if required.
    • Camping may not exceed three weeks from the beginning to the end of the camping stay.
    • Owner contact information or a TWRA ID number and date of arrival must be displayed on a camper, tent, vehicle, or similar item at all times.
    • Where overnight camping is allowed, firearms and archery equipment must remain in camp except during legal hunting hours.

    maximum camping stay: <= 3 weeks

    “May be permitted in designated areas by permission from the area manager, park ranger, lake manager, park superintendent, or national forest supervisor. Such camping is subject to the limitations prescribed in the permit if required.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Limited — Camping and use of trailers or other camper units in Tennessee state forests administered by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Division of Forestry.
      “Camping and the use of trailers or other camper units are allowed only at designated locations. The district forester will issue written permits to persons to camp in backcountry or other isolated sections of a forest area.”
  • Tiny homesAllowed (with conditions)

    Preassembled permanent tiny homes delivered to a homeowner as a completed unit, including a tiny home built off-site on a chassis or installed on a permanent foundation.

    • The State Fire Marshal’s Office says its inspection program allows construction, inspection, and permanent consumer use of tiny homes and similar structures.
    • The program inspection is described as similar to inspections of a site-built home and provides a decal reflecting compliance with adopted statewide building and electrical codes.
    • State residential-code regulations apply to new construction; additions over 30 square feet have been covered since October 1, 2011.
    • A state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of a local ordinance; local zoning or other local requirements may independently control placement or occupancy.
    • If a subsurface sewage system will serve the residence, a conventional septic-system permit is required for installation of a conventional system or approved substitute product; an alternative-system permit is required for installation of an alternative system.
    • If a water well is drilled or a well pump or water-treatment device is installed, the work must be performed by a licensed person.

    addition area triggering state residential-code regulation: > 30 square feet (Applies to additions beginning October 1, 2011.)

    “The new tiny home inspection program was developed to allow for the construction, inspection and use of tiny homes and similar structures for permanent use by consumers.”
  • Manufactured homesLimited

    HUD-labeled manufactured homes installed in Tennessee under the state manufactured-housing program.

    • Manufactured homes must be installed by licensed installers and have an installation decal applied after setup.
    • A state residential building permit is not required merely to place a manufactured or modular home in the state program, but a Manufactured/Modular Site Work Permit is required for a custom addition, site-built deck, porch, or stoop next to the home.
    • A state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of a local ordinance; local zoning or other local requirements may independently control siting or occupancy.
    • If a subsurface sewage system will serve the residence, state septic-system permitting applies.
    “Ensure your application is approved and your license is active prior to installing any manufactured home in the state of Tennessee”
  • Septic inspectionRequired

    Installation of subsurface sewage disposal systems in Tennessee.

    • The installer must notify the Division when installation is complete.
    • A final inspection is scheduled before the system is covered.
    • TDEC inspects each SSDS installation for compliance with permit conditions and regulatory requirements.
    • Inspection fees vary by system type: $100 for new conventional or large-diameter graveless pipe systems, $200 for alternative systems, and $100 for repair construction inspections.

    new conventional construction inspection fee: 100 USD · alternative construction inspection fee: 200 USD · repair construction inspection fee: 100 USD

    “The applicant or SSDS installer must notify the Division when a system has been installed so that it can be inspected and approved.”
    One more reviewed finding on this topic
    • Required — A permitted septic-system installation in Davidson County.
      “When installation is complete, the installer will contact the local Environmental Scientist to schedule a final inspection before the system is covered. If the septic system installation is approved, the Environmental Scientist will issue a Certificate of Completion.”
  • Off-grid sanitationLimited

    Construction, modification, or repair of an on-site subsurface sewage disposal (septic) system, including systems serving residential, commercial, and industrial properties in Tennessee.

    • A septic-system permit is required for construction, modification, or repair.
    • An applicant planning a new system, or repair or modification of an existing system, must apply for a permit.
    • A TDEC Environmental Scientist conducts a site evaluation and may request a detailed site plan or soils map from a private licensed soil consultant.
    • If a permit is issued, the applicant provides it to a licensed installer; after installation, the installer contacts the local Environmental Scientist for a final inspection before the system is covered.
    • A Certificate of Completion is issued if the installation is approved.
    “A septic system permit is required for the construction, modification or repair of a septic system.”
  • Well permitRequired

    Drilling a water well for production of water from underground sources in Tennessee.

    • Before drilling, the property owner or licensed well driller must submit a Notice of Intent to the Director in the Department-prescribed manner.
    • A driller must have documentation that the Notice of Intent was submitted to the Division of Water Resources before beginning operations at a drill site.
    • The Notice of Intent fee or a receipt must accompany the driller's report; no well or borehole may be drilled unless the driller has documentation that a Notice of Intent has been filed.
    • A Notice of Intent and fee are not required for well closure, deepening, or reworking of a water well or closed-loop geothermal borehole.
    • The Notice of Intent fee requirement does not apply in a qualifying local jurisdiction authorized to regulate well location and construction that has a Commissioner-approved inspection fee.
    • The Notice of Intent fee does not apply when the property owner filed a notice and paid the fee for the same property within the previous five years, provided the new notice identifies the first notice's identification number.
    • A Notice of Intent expires 180 days after its original filing date.

    Notice of Intent fee for water wells for production of water per property site: 75 USD (Not required for qualifying local jurisdictions or when the same property satisfies the five-year prior-notice exception.) · Notice of Intent expiration: 180 days

    “A Notice of Intent to drill a water well must be submitted by the property owner or the licensed well driller to the Director in the manner prescribed by the Department, prior to commencement of drilling a water well in Tennessee.”
  • Agricultural exemptionConditional

    Buildings or structures on land used for agricultural purposes and subject to county zoning regulation in Tennessee.

    • The building or structure must be located on lands devoted to agricultural uses.
    • The building or structure must be incidental to the agricultural enterprise.
    • The exemption does not apply to agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state or federal-aid highways, public airports, or public parks.
    • The exemption does not apply to land located within the one-hundred-year flood plain.
    • The Attorney General opinion states that the provision applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    • There is no blanket exemption for cotton gins, grain elevators, slaughterhouses, processing plants, or milk bottling plants; those structures qualify only when the statutory conditions are met.
    “it must be located on lands “devoted to agricultural uses;” and (2) it must be “incidental to the agricultural enterprise.””
  • Shed and accessory-building permit exemptionAvailable (with conditions)

    State residential building permits for detached garages, sheds, barns, and other detached structures that are not used for living purposes.

    • This is an exemption from the state residential building permit, not an exemption from all state or local requirements.
    • The State Residential Building Code Enforcement Program applies only in areas that have not received an SFMO exemption through local-code enforcement and have not opted out by a two-thirds vote of the city or county legislative body.
    • The exemption stated by the Department is limited to detached structures not used for living purposes; the opened official page does not state an accessory-structure size threshold.
    • The state residential building permit is not zoning approval and does not authorize violation of state law, regulation, or local ordinance.
    “A state residential building permit is not required for detached garages, sheds, barns or other detached structures that are not used for living purposes.”
  • Subdividing landRegulated (with conditions)

    Subdivision approval and individual lots using subsurface sewage disposal systems in Davidson County.

    • Tennessee SSDS rules include subdivision approval and additional site requirements for individual lots and construction permits.
    “0400-48-01-.03 Subdivisions | | 0400-48-01-.04 Additional Site Requirements and Limitations for Subdivision Approval and Individual Lots and Issuance of Construction Permit”
  • Driveway accessLimited

    Construction, modification, revision, or change in use of a driveway on Tennessee state highway right-of-way.

    • The requirement applies to state highway right-of-way and does not establish a permit requirement for every driveway on every road.
    • Property owners must obtain the permit from TDOT.
    • County or municipal land-use regulations may also apply.
    “Under state law, a permit is required before construction of a driveway on state highway right-of-way, including the modification, revision, or change in use”
  • county zoning authorityGeneral

    County legislative bodies adopting zoning regulations for portions of Tennessee counties outside municipal corporations.

    • The authority is exercised under the conditions and procedures in Tennessee Code Annotated §§ 13-7-101 through 13-7-119.
    • The grant applies to portions of counties outside municipal corporations.
    • County zoning authority does not authorize county building permits or regulation of buildings or structures on agricultural land when the building or structure is incidental to the agricultural enterprise, except on agricultural lands adjacent or in proximity to state federal-aid highways, public airports or public parks.
    • The agricultural-land limitation applies to counties only and has no application to municipalities.
    “Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-101, et seq., the General Assembly has expressly delegated the authority to county legislative bodies to enact zoning regulations and create a board of zoning appeals.”

Still unanswered

We looked and could not find an official answer yet. Silence is not permission — ask the county directly.

  • Living in an RV — Long-term RV occupancy on private land in Metro Nashville-Davidson County
  • Accessory dwellings — Accessory dwelling units in Davidson County.

Each answer was extracted from an official source and independently re-checked against that source by a second reviewer. That is an evidence check, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you buy or build.

Living off-grid in Davidson County, Tennessee

Is Davidson County a good place to live off-grid or homestead?

Davidson County scores 50/100 on the Bolthole Index, a solid county profile. Its strengths: a stronger property-autonomy legal backdrop and mixed durability signals. Watch-outs: about 910,935 people within a 30-minute drive.

How much does land cost in Davidson County, Tennessee?

Land in Davidson County runs about $12,414 per acre, based on the latest county data.

What is the water situation in Davidson County?

Davidson County gets about 52.1" of rain a year, with severe drought in roughly 2.5% of years.

How remote is Davidson County?

A representative private-land location has about 910,935 people within a 30-minute drive and 4,158,910 within two hours. The road-network catchments count population across county lines and clusters of smaller cities; straight-line radius values remain available as a comparison.

How Davidson compares in Tennessee

Compare side-by-side →See all 95 Tennessee counties ranked →