Chattanooga Residential Building Permit Guide

Chattanooga residential building permits apply to new single-unit construction, ADUs, and work that alters an existing footprint, with contractor licensing and owner-builder requirements.

Permit takeaway

Chattanooga's residential building permit application is used for new construction single-unit detached or attached homes, ADUs, or work altering the existing footprint.

Zoning and placement

Residential building permit review may involve current zoning code requirements, and land disturbing permits follow the new zoning ordinance with no grace period.

Building and trade review

Contractors need the appropriate Tennessee contractor license, workers' compensation proof or exemption, and in some cases a Chattanooga business license.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project is an ADU, addition, footprint change, owner-builder permit, licensed contractor project, or involves land disturbance.

Documents to prepare

• OpenGov application
• Site plan
• Contractor license information
• Workers' compensation proof or exemption
• Owner-builder eligibility information if applicable

Inspection planning

• Apply through OpenGov
• Upload required documents
• Complete zoning and plan review
• Track permit status
• Schedule inspections

Official sources

• Chattanooga Residential Building Permit
• Chattanooga Building Permits
• Chattanooga Commercial Building Permit

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.