Metro Codes Department

To apply for a permit or to meet with a zoning examiner please schedule an appointment by e-mailing zoningappointments@nashville.gov. Short term rental permit applications may be submitted to david.frabutt@nashville.gov. Registered contractors may apply for building and trades permits, make online payments, check the status of inspections, and renew licenses and registrations via the online ePermits system. The ePermits system can also be used to make online payments for permits, check the status of inspections and reviews, and renew licenses and registrations.

• Pay for a building permit: codespermitpay@nashville.gov.
• Set up an appointment with a Zoning Examiner: zoningappointments@nashville.gov.
• Ask questions about zoning requirements: ZoningQuestions@nashville.gov

Appointments

Our Development Services Center, located on the first floor of the Metro Office Building, is a one stop shop for residents and contractors to apply for building and zoning permits. Due to a high volume of customers, permit applicants and those wishing to meet with zoning staff may request an appointment with a zoning examiner by e-mailing zoningappointments@nashville.gov. Be sure to include your phone number and project address as well as any supporting documents as a site plan and renderings. You will receive a confirmation e-mail with your appointment date and time once it is scheduled.

For help in Spanish, send an email to CodesEspanol@nashville.gov or call 615-862-4078.

Building Codes and Permits

Metro Codes is responsible for licensing building and trade contractors, and inspecting properties and processing various permit applications. Learn more about the commercial building permit process, residential building permit procedures, or apply for construction permits online using the ePermits system.

Zoning Division

The Zoning Division is the first step in obtaining building permits and zoning information. The division is comprised of Zoning Examiners who review building projects and proposed signs for compliance with the Metropolitan Zoning Code. Residents who do not agree with a decision made by the Zoning Division can appeal to the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). Review appeals applications online using the BZA Tracker.

To learn more about the Zoning Code and how you can use Metro’s online tools to find out information about a property parcel in Davidson County, please visit Understanding the Zoning Code.

Property Standards

Homeowners and business owners in Nashville have a responsibility to their neighbors to maintain a safe, clean property. A lack of adequate property maintenance can detract from the quality of life for others and lead to public health and safety concerns. Property standards violations can be reported online via hubNashville or by calling 615-862-6590.

Short Term Rental Properties

Metro Codes is responsible for permitting Short Term Rental Properties (STRP) and ensuring property owners comply with the rules and regulations set forth by the Metro Council. If you have a complaint about a short term rental property in your neighborhood, please contact Host Compliance 24/7 at 435-787-4657 or submit your complaints or tips online. The Metro Department of Codes and Building Safety is required by Tennessee state law § 13-7-604(C) to inform you that any false complaints made against a short-term rental unit provider are punishable as perjury under TCA § 39-16-702.

If you are the owner of a property seeking to apply for a short term rental property permit, visit our Short Term Rental Property page for eligibility requirements and details on how to register.