If you're planning to add a garage or shop to your property in Middle Tennessee, one of the first questions you'll face is whether you need a building permit. The short answer is yes — most garages and shop buildings in Tennessee require a permit before construction begins. But the specifics depend on your county, the size and use of the building, and how it's built. Here's what you need to know before you start your project in Waverly, TN and surrounding areas.
What triggers a building permit requirement in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, building permit requirements are set at the county and city level, not statewide. Most counties in Middle Tennessee require a permit for any structure that meets one or more of these conditions:
- The building is larger than 100 to 200 square feet (the threshold varies by county)
- The structure has a permanent foundation, including pole barn posts set in concrete
- You plan to run electricity, plumbing, or HVAC to the building
- The building will be used for commercial purposes or as a workshop with equipment
- The structure is attached to your home or another permitted building
In Humphreys County and most neighboring counties, even a detached garage sitting on skids may require a permit if it exceeds the square footage threshold or if you're adding utilities. The safest approach is to check with your local building department before you commit to a purchase.
Do I need a permit for a prefab metal garage or a custom-built shop?
Yes, in most cases. The type of construction — whether it's a delivered prefab metal garage or a custom pole barn or stick-built garage built on your property — doesn't usually exempt you from permits. What matters is size, foundation, and utility connections.
Prefab metal garages: These are pre-manufactured structures that are delivered to your site and typically set on gravel, concrete piers, or a slab. PAC Building Pro offers rent-to-own prefab metal garages with no credit check and free delivery within 30 miles of Waverly. Even though these buildings arrive ready-made, they still trigger permit requirements in most Middle Tennessee counties if they're over the size threshold or have a permanent foundation.
Custom pole barn and stick-built garages: PAC also builds custom post-frame (pole barn) and stud-frame (stick-built) garages directly on your property. These projects almost always require a permit because they involve a permanent foundation — either treated poles set in concrete or a concrete slab with wood framing. Financing and cash payment options are available for these custom builds. Pole barns are often faster and more economical for larger shops, while stick-built garages offer more flexibility for interior finishes and insulation.
Get a free, no-pressure quote at pacbuildingpro.com or call (931) 296-2777.
How do I get a building permit in Middle Tennessee?
The permit process is usually straightforward, but it does take a little time and paperwork. Here's the typical sequence in Humphreys County and neighboring areas:
- Contact your local building department. Call or visit the county building office to confirm permit requirements and fees. In Humphreys County, that's the Humphreys County Building Department in Waverly.
- Submit a site plan and building specs. You'll need a simple drawing showing where the building will sit on your property, setback distances from property lines, and the building's dimensions and construction type. Your builder can often help prepare this.
- Pay the permit fee. Fees in Middle Tennessee typically range from $50 to $300 depending on the size and value of the structure.
- Schedule inspections. Most counties require at least a foundation inspection and a final inspection. If you're adding electrical service, you'll also need an electrical inspection.
- Receive your certificate of occupancy (if required). Once inspections pass, the county issues final approval.
A reputable builder like PAC Building Pro can walk you through the permit process and coordinate inspections. We've worked with counties across Middle Tennessee and know what local inspectors look for.
What happens if I build without a permit?
Building without a permit can create serious problems down the road. If the county discovers an unpermitted structure, you may face fines, be required to remove the building, or have to obtain a retroactive permit (which is often more expensive and complicated). Unpermitted buildings can also hurt your property value and make it difficult to sell your home, since buyers and mortgage lenders often require proof that all structures were permitted and inspected.
In Tennessee, building inspectors sometimes discover unpermitted garages and shops during routine property assessments or when neighbors report construction activity. It's always worth the time and modest expense to do it right from the start.
What about setbacks and zoning?
Beyond the building permit, you also need to comply with local setback and zoning rules. Setbacks are the minimum distances your garage or shop must be from property lines, roads, and other structures. In most Middle Tennessee counties, accessory buildings like garages must be at least 5 to 10 feet from side and rear property lines, and often 20 to 30 feet from the road.
Zoning rules can also limit the total square footage of accessory structures on your lot, or restrict certain uses (like a commercial shop in a residential zone). Your county planning or zoning office can provide a zoning map and answer questions about your property's restrictions.
| Requirement | What to Check | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| Building Permit | Size threshold, foundation type, utilities | County building department |
| Setbacks | Minimum distance from property lines | County zoning or planning office |
| Zoning Restrictions | Allowed uses, max square footage | County zoning office or online map |
| Electrical Permit | Required if adding service or outlets | County electrical inspector |
Does PAC Building Pro help with permits?
Yes. When you work with PAC Building Pro on a custom pole barn or stick-built garage, we help you understand what permits are needed and provide the building plans and specs required by your county. For prefab metal garages delivered to your site, we'll advise you on permit requirements and can provide manufacturer specs and engineering documents if your county requires them.
Every county is a little different, so we recommend reaching out early in your planning process. We've been building in Middle Tennessee for years and have relationships with local inspectors, which helps keep your project on track and compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a small 12x20 garage in Tennessee?
Most Middle Tennessee counties require a permit for any accessory structure over 100 to 200 square feet. A 12x20 garage is 240 square feet, so it typically requires a permit, especially if it has a foundation or utilities. Check with your county building department to confirm.
How much does a building permit cost in Humphreys County?
Building permit fees in Humphreys County and surrounding Middle Tennessee counties usually range from $50 to $300 depending on the size and value of the garage or shop. Your county building office can give you an exact quote based on your project details.
Can I put a garage on my property if I don't own the land?
If you're renting or leasing the land, you'll need written permission from the property owner before applying for a building permit. The county may require proof of the owner's consent, and the building permit will typically be issued in the landowner's name.
What inspections are required for a new garage in Tennessee?
Most counties require at least a foundation or footing inspection and a final inspection. If you're adding electricity, you'll also need an electrical inspection. Your builder will schedule these at the appropriate stages of construction.
Ready to start your garage or shop project in Middle Tennessee? PAC Building Pro offers both delivered prefab metal garages with rent-to-own and no credit check options, plus custom pole barn and stick-built garages built on your property with financing available. Get a free quote today at pacbuildingpro.com or call us at (931) 296-2777. We'll help you navigate permits, design the right building for your needs, and deliver quality construction you can count on.