Everything you need to know about getting a deck permit in Nashville: fees, requirements, exemptions, and direct links to the Metro Nashville Department of Codes and Building Safety.
Permit Fees
Residential construction: $5.00 per $1,000 of valuation. Minimum fee: $75.00 per permit.
A $10,000 deck project: $50 permit fee (minimum $75 applies).
Processing Time
Varies by project complexity. Self-permit option available for owner-occupied projects under $25,000.
Apply Online
Yes — via Metro Nashville Codes
Building Code
2018 International Residential Code with Nashville amendments
Contact: 615-862-6500
Tearing down a deck without replacement does not require a permit. New construction, replacement, renovation, board replacement above 100 sq ft, and any footings/framing replacement all require permits.
If your deck does NOT meet all exemption criteria, you must obtain a permit before construction. Building without a required permit can result in fines, stop-work orders, and required demolition.
Review the exemption criteria above. If your deck exceeds any threshold, a permit is required.
You'll need a site plan, deck dimensions, framing details, and footing specifications. Check Nashville's specific documentation requirements.
Apply through Metro Nashville Codes . Pay the permit fee at submission.
Once approved, post your permit visibly and schedule required inspections (typically footing, framing, and final).
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Sources
Data verified April 2026. Fees, processing times, and requirements are subject to change. Always confirm current information with Nashville's Metro Nashville Department of Codes and Building Safety.