FAQs • Murfreesboro, TN • CivicEngage

Can I obtain my own permits?: Yes and no. A homeowner may obtain his or her own building, mechanical or plumbing permits. However, a licensed electrical contractor must obtain permits for any electrical work. A licensed gas contractor must obtain permits for any gas work, however, a homeowner residing in their own home and is doing the gas work themselves may obtain a gas permit.

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Building & Codes

1. Is it okay to convert the bonus room into a bedroom?: Converting other rooms of a house into sleeping rooms is not permitted unless the emergency egress window, smoke detector and septic system (if applicable) requirements are met.

2. When do I need a building permit?: A permit is required in order to construct, alter, convert, repair, enlarge, move or demolish any building or structure or part thereof, or any appurtenances connected or attached thereto including, but not limited to fences, storage buildings, pools, decks, and finishing out expandables. Contact the Murfreesboro Planning Department at 615-893-6441 before doing any exterior renovations or modifications to a structure inside the Historic Zoning District.

3. When is a building permit not required?: Normal maintenance repairs of an existing building or structure may be made without a permit, provided such repairs do not violate any provisions of the code. The term, "normal maintenance repairs", means repairs to an existing building or structure, including but not limited to exterior and interior painting, papering, glazing of windows or doors, floor finishing, minor repairs to chimneys, porches, underpinning or roofing. Contact the Murfreesboro Planning Department at 615-893-6441 before doing any exterior renovations or modifications to a structure inside the Historic Zoning District.

4. Can I obtain my own permits?: Yes and no. A homeowner may obtain his or her own building, mechanical or plumbing permits. However, a licensed electrical contractor must obtain permits for any electrical work. A licensed gas contractor must obtain permits for any gas work, however, a homeowner residing in their own home and is doing the gas work themselves may obtain a gas permit.

5. How long is a building permit valid?: A building permit does not become invalid unless the work authorized by it has not commenced within six months of its issuance, or if the work is suspended or abandoned for a period of one year after the time the work commenced.

6. Why do I need a permit to build or remodel my own house/property?: In a word, safety - your safety, and that of your family, visitors and guests.

7. Is it okay to remove the handrails from the steps?: No. Handrails are required where more than two steps occur and removal constitutes a violation of the code. Handrails are important to people's safety and should not be removed.

8. Can a fence be on the property line?: There are no setback requirements for fences - but please take care not to encroach upon your neighbor's property, on a drainage or utility easement or the public right of way. A building permit is required in order to construct the fence. The building and codes department will assist you in determining if easements are located on your property.

9. What is the number for TN One-Call?: Before you dig call TN One-Call at 1-800-351-1111