Demolition permit in Franklin, TN
Yes — you need a permit for demolition work in Franklin.
| Permit needed? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Where the line falls | No size threshold in the code |
| Fee | Not in the ordinance — the department quotes it |
| Review time | Not in the ordinance |
| Code section | Sec. 12-101 (IBC 2024 governs removal and demolition of every structure) |
| Based on | IBC 2024 / IEBC 2024 |
How to pull the permit
- Put together a site plan showing where the work goes, with dimensions.
- Apply through the Franklin building department.
- Pay the permit fee when the permit is issued. Work done before that isn't covered.
- Book each inspection listed on the permit as the job reaches that stage.
If you skip it
Demolishing a structure without a required permit is unlawful; the fine is set in Appendix A (comprehensive fees and penalties).
Nearby cities, same job
Rules stop at the city line. If your lot is near a boundary, or you work across several towns, this is where they differ.
| City | Distance | Permit? | Where the line falls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franklin | — | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
| Brentwood | 7 mi | Yes | 90-day waiting period before a permit issues if the struc… |
| Smyrna | 18 mi | Yes | Demolishing a structure or part of one needs a permit. De… |
| Hendersonville | 31 mi | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
| Farragut | 150 mi | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
| Memphis | 184 mi | Yes | You cannot tear down any house or building in Memphis wit… |
Other work in Franklin
Questions people ask
I already built it without a permit. What now?
Franklin can issue a stop-work order and require you to apply after the fact, sometimes with an extra fee. Work that was covered up may have to be opened for inspection. Full walkthrough here.
Does unpermitted work cause problems when selling the house?
Often, yes. A buyer's inspector or the title company may flag it, and lenders can balk at financing a home with open or missing permits. What to do about it.