ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit in Jackson, TN
Yes — you need a permit for adu (accessory dwelling unit) work in Jackson.
building an accessory dwelling unit (garage apartment, casita); habitable dwelling unit, not an exempt <=200 sqft accessory structure
| Permit needed? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Where the line falls | building an accessory dwelling unit (garage apartment, ca… |
| Fee | Not in the ordinance — the department quotes it |
| Review time | Not in the ordinance |
| Code section | IRC R105.2 / 12-1001 |
| Based on | IRC 2018 as adopted (Ord. #2021-7; amended Ord. #2024-16, May 2024) |
How to pull the permit
- Put together a site plan showing where the work goes, with dimensions.
- Apply through the Jackson 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
Misdemeanor to erect or construct a structure in violation of the adopted codes (12-106).
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson | — | Yes | building an accessory dwelling unit (garage apartment, ca… |
| Germantown | 66 mi | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
| Memphis | 74 mi | Yes | Building an accessory dwelling unit, such as a garage apa… |
| Clarksville | 104 mi | Yes | A new accessory dwelling unit is new residential construc… |
| Franklin | 113 mi | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
| Brentwood | 118 mi | Yes | No size threshold in the code |
See every Tennessee city on adu (accessory dwelling unit) work
Other work in Jackson
Questions people ask
I already built it without a permit. What now?
Jackson 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.