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Franklin TN Building Permit Guide
Britain Jacobson
Last updated:
Jun 13, 2025
Franklin, Tennessee is booming — and if you’re a builder, developer, or trade contractor looking to keep up with demand, understanding the city’s permitting process is essential. Between zoning checks, MEP coordination, and navigating applications, it’s easy to hit delays without a clear roadmap.
This guide breaks down what contractors, homebuilders, and home services pros need to know about pulling Franklin TN building permits so your next project starts without surprises.
Simplify permitting in Franklin with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Franklin, TN?
The City of Franklin requires permits for most construction and trade work.
A Franklin TN building permit is typically required for:
- New residential or commercial structures
- Additions to existing structures
- Interior remodels that include framing, plumbing, or electrical changes
- Detached accessory structures (garages, sheds, carports, etc.)
- Decks, porches, or patios over 30” high
- Electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC) work
- Swimming pools (in-ground and above-ground)
- Demolitions
- Change of use or occupancy for commercial spaces
You can confirm your project’s permit requirements by contacting the Franklin Building and Neighborhood Services Department.
What doesn’t require a building permit in Franklin?
Minor or cosmetic improvements may not require a permit.
Examples include:
- Painting, wallpapering, or flooring
- Replacing fixtures (like sinks or toilets) without moving plumbing
- Non-structural siding repair
- Cabinetry or countertops
- Detached sheds under 120 square feet (if no utilities or foundation)
That said, it’s always best to verify your specific scope with the city. Projects may still require zoning or HOA review even if exempt from building permits.
Franklin, TN building permit fees
Permit fees in Franklin are based on project type, scope, and valuation. The city separates fee structures for single-family residential and all other structures (commercial, multifamily, tenant build-outs, etc.).
Single-family detached homes and additions
For new construction and additions to detached single-family homes (including garages and porches), permit fees include all sub-trades:
| Fee Type |
Rate |
| Building permit (includes MEPs) |
$0.77 per square foot under roof, including storage accessible by permanent stairs or doors |
Note: Fee is adjusted annually based on CPI.
All other buildings and structures (commercial, multifamily, etc.)
| Valuation |
Permit Fee |
| $1 – $4,999 |
$50 (simple permit) |
| $5,000 – $14,999 |
$64 for first $5,000 + $6.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $15,000 – $39,999 |
$132 for first $15,000 + $4.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $40,000 – $99,999 |
$251 for first $40,000 + $4.00 per $1,000 beyond |
| $100,000 – $499,999 |
$491 for first $100,000 + $2.50 per $1,000 beyond |
| $500,000 – $999,999 |
$1,491 for first $500,000 + $1.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $1,000,000+ |
$2,366 for first $1M + $1.25 per $1,000 beyond |
Valuation is verified using ICC building valuation data; the greater of stated or calculated value is used.
Plan review fees
| Valuation |
Review Fee |
| $0 – $100,000 |
$50 flat |
| $100,001 – $5,000,000 |
0.05% of valuation |
| $5,000,001+ |
$2,500 + 0.01% of value above $5M |
| Additional plan review cycles after initial and 1st re-reviews |
50% of calculated plan review fee |
Simple permits
Franklin offers a simplified $50 flat-fee permit for small-scope work in existing buildings. These are known as simple permits and are applicable for limited scopes across multiple trades:
| Permit Category |
Examples |
Fee |
| Building |
Accessory buildings, demolitions, renovations |
$50 for each category that applies |
| Electrical |
Up to 5 devices, 3 circuits or fewer, temporary service, low voltage systems, and residential service releases < 200 amps |
| Plumbing |
Up to 5 devices, water/sewer repair, water heater changeouts, gas piping pressure tests |
| Mechanical |
Up to 5 devices, equipment changeouts, gas piping pressure tests |
| Other permits |
Any code-required permits not separately listed, administered by the Building and Neighborhood Services office |
Additional fees
| Fee Type |
Amount |
| Technology fee (per permit) |
$10 |
| Reinspection fee |
$50 |
| Special event or after-hours inspection |
$75/hour (min. 2 hrs) |
| Facility tax (residential) |
$0.89/sq ft |
| Facility tax (commercial) |
$1.18/sq ft |
How to get a building permit in Franklin
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Start by verifying which permits are required based on your project scope. Use the city’s plan review portal or contact the department at (615) 794-7012 for assistance.
Step 2: Prepare necessary documentation
You’ll typically need:
- Completed application (submitted online)
- Site plan or survey
- Construction drawings
- Project valuation
- Contractor license and insurance info
- Sub-permit details (if applicable)
For larger projects, zoning review, stormwater approval, or historic district compliance may also be required.
Step 3: Submit application
All permit applications for the City of Franklin must be submitted digitally. The city no longer accepts paper plans or walk-in applications.
To begin, visit the Franklin Permit Portal and log in or create an account. Once inside, click “Submit a project for review” and select the appropriate permit type:
- 14a – Building Permit – Non-Residential or Multifamily
- 14b – Building Permit – Residential
You’ll then follow a guided workflow to input project details, upload plans and documents, and assign contractor information. Be sure to complete every required field and upload all necessary files, including site plans, construction drawings, and authorization forms.
Need help? Refer to the city’s official How to Submit a Building Application and Upload Plans guide.
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation and be notified if corrections are needed before plan review begins.
Step 4: Plan review and approval
City staff will route your application for plan review.
Departments may include:
- Building
- Zoning
- Engineering
- Fire Marshal (for commercial projects)
Review times vary by project size and complexity. Minor residential work may be approved in 3–5 business days. Larger commercial projects may take 2–4 weeks.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once plans are approved and fees are paid, your permit will be issued digitally. Be sure to post it at the job site before starting construction.
Step 6: Inspections
Inspections are required at various stages of construction to ensure code compliance. After your Franklin building permit is issued, you’re responsible for scheduling inspections at appropriate milestones — such as footings, framing, MEP rough-ins, and final completion.
You can schedule inspections in two ways:
- Online:
- Phone:
- Call the 24-hour inspection voicemail line at (615) 591-5603.
- Requests must be submitted by 12:00 PM for next-business-day service.
- Speak clearly and include your permit number and the inspection type (e.g., “12345, Final”)
You can check whether your inspection is scheduled by reviewing the Daily Scheduled Inspections list.
Franklin permitting resources
Franklin Permit Portal
Building Department Page
- Physical Address: 120 9th Ave. South, Franklin, TN 37064
- Phone: (615) 794-7012
- Email: bns@franklintn.gov
Streamline permitting in Franklin, TN with PermitFlow
Managing Franklin TN permits shouldn’t slow your team down. PermitFlow helps developers, builders, and contractors streamline every phase of the permitting process — from application prep to final inspection.
With PermitFlow, you get:
- Upfront research: Know exactly what Franklin TN permitting rules apply before you break ground
- Centralized dashboard: Track every permit across multiple jobs in one place
- Fewer rejections: Submit complete, accurate applications the first time
- Real-time updates: Stay ahead of review timelines, inspector comments, and resubmittals
Ready to simplify permitting in Franklin and beyond? Talk to a PermitFlow expert today.
Franklin, Tennessee is booming — and if you’re a builder, developer, or trade contractor looking to keep up with demand, understanding the city’s permitting process is essential. Between zoning checks, MEP coordination, and navigating applications, it’s easy to hit delays without a clear roadmap.
This guide breaks down what contractors, homebuilders, and home services pros need to know about pulling Franklin TN building permits so your next project starts without surprises.
Simplify permitting in Franklin with PermitFlow. Learn more here.
What requires a building permit in Franklin, TN?
The City of Franklin requires permits for most construction and trade work.
A Franklin TN building permit is typically required for:
- New residential or commercial structures
- Additions to existing structures
- Interior remodels that include framing, plumbing, or electrical changes
- Detached accessory structures (garages, sheds, carports, etc.)
- Decks, porches, or patios over 30” high
- Electrical, plumbing, mechanical (HVAC) work
- Swimming pools (in-ground and above-ground)
- Demolitions
- Change of use or occupancy for commercial spaces
You can confirm your project’s permit requirements by contacting the Franklin Building and Neighborhood Services Department.
What doesn’t require a building permit in Franklin?
Minor or cosmetic improvements may not require a permit.
Examples include:
- Painting, wallpapering, or flooring
- Replacing fixtures (like sinks or toilets) without moving plumbing
- Non-structural siding repair
- Cabinetry or countertops
- Detached sheds under 120 square feet (if no utilities or foundation)
That said, it’s always best to verify your specific scope with the city. Projects may still require zoning or HOA review even if exempt from building permits.
Franklin, TN building permit fees
Permit fees in Franklin are based on project type, scope, and valuation. The city separates fee structures for single-family residential and all other structures (commercial, multifamily, tenant build-outs, etc.).
Single-family detached homes and additions
For new construction and additions to detached single-family homes (including garages and porches), permit fees include all sub-trades:
| Fee Type |
Rate |
| Building permit (includes MEPs) |
$0.77 per square foot under roof, including storage accessible by permanent stairs or doors |
Note: Fee is adjusted annually based on CPI.
All other buildings and structures (commercial, multifamily, etc.)
| Valuation |
Permit Fee |
| $1 – $4,999 |
$50 (simple permit) |
| $5,000 – $14,999 |
$64 for first $5,000 + $6.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $15,000 – $39,999 |
$132 for first $15,000 + $4.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $40,000 – $99,999 |
$251 for first $40,000 + $4.00 per $1,000 beyond |
| $100,000 – $499,999 |
$491 for first $100,000 + $2.50 per $1,000 beyond |
| $500,000 – $999,999 |
$1,491 for first $500,000 + $1.75 per $1,000 beyond |
| $1,000,000+ |
$2,366 for first $1M + $1.25 per $1,000 beyond |
Valuation is verified using ICC building valuation data; the greater of stated or calculated value is used.
Plan review fees
| Valuation |
Review Fee |
| $0 – $100,000 |
$50 flat |
| $100,001 – $5,000,000 |
0.05% of valuation |
| $5,000,001+ |
$2,500 + 0.01% of value above $5M |
| Additional plan review cycles after initial and 1st re-reviews |
50% of calculated plan review fee |
Simple permits
Franklin offers a simplified $50 flat-fee permit for small-scope work in existing buildings. These are known as simple permits and are applicable for limited scopes across multiple trades:
| Permit Category |
Examples |
Fee |
| Building |
Accessory buildings, demolitions, renovations |
$50 for each category that applies |
| Electrical |
Up to 5 devices, 3 circuits or fewer, temporary service, low voltage systems, and residential service releases < 200 amps |
| Plumbing |
Up to 5 devices, water/sewer repair, water heater changeouts, gas piping pressure tests |
| Mechanical |
Up to 5 devices, equipment changeouts, gas piping pressure tests |
| Other permits |
Any code-required permits not separately listed, administered by the Building and Neighborhood Services office |
Additional fees
| Fee Type |
Amount |
| Technology fee (per permit) |
$10 |
| Reinspection fee |
$50 |
| Special event or after-hours inspection |
$75/hour (min. 2 hrs) |
| Facility tax (residential) |
$0.89/sq ft |
| Facility tax (commercial) |
$1.18/sq ft |
How to get a building permit in Franklin
Step 1: Determine permit requirements
Start by verifying which permits are required based on your project scope. Use the city’s plan review portal or contact the department at (615) 794-7012 for assistance.
Step 2: Prepare necessary documentation
You’ll typically need:
- Completed application (submitted online)
- Site plan or survey
- Construction drawings
- Project valuation
- Contractor license and insurance info
- Sub-permit details (if applicable)
For larger projects, zoning review, stormwater approval, or historic district compliance may also be required.
Step 3: Submit application
All permit applications for the City of Franklin must be submitted digitally. The city no longer accepts paper plans or walk-in applications.
To begin, visit the Franklin Permit Portal and log in or create an account. Once inside, click “Submit a project for review” and select the appropriate permit type:
- 14a – Building Permit – Non-Residential or Multifamily
- 14b – Building Permit – Residential
You’ll then follow a guided workflow to input project details, upload plans and documents, and assign contractor information. Be sure to complete every required field and upload all necessary files, including site plans, construction drawings, and authorization forms.
Need help? Refer to the city’s official How to Submit a Building Application and Upload Plans guide.
Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation and be notified if corrections are needed before plan review begins.
Step 4: Plan review and approval
City staff will route your application for plan review.
Departments may include:
- Building
- Zoning
- Engineering
- Fire Marshal (for commercial projects)
Review times vary by project size and complexity. Minor residential work may be approved in 3–5 business days. Larger commercial projects may take 2–4 weeks.
Step 5: Permit issuance
Once plans are approved and fees are paid, your permit will be issued digitally. Be sure to post it at the job site before starting construction.
Step 6: Inspections
Inspections are required at various stages of construction to ensure code compliance. After your Franklin building permit is issued, you’re responsible for scheduling inspections at appropriate milestones — such as footings, framing, MEP rough-ins, and final completion.
You can schedule inspections in two ways:
- Online:
- Phone:
- Call the 24-hour inspection voicemail line at (615) 591-5603.
- Requests must be submitted by 12:00 PM for next-business-day service.
- Speak clearly and include your permit number and the inspection type (e.g., “12345, Final”)
You can check whether your inspection is scheduled by reviewing the Daily Scheduled Inspections list.
Franklin permitting resources
Franklin Permit Portal
Building Department Page
- Physical Address: 120 9th Ave. South, Franklin, TN 37064
- Phone: (615) 794-7012
- Email: bns@franklintn.gov
Streamline permitting in Franklin, TN with PermitFlow
Managing Franklin TN permits shouldn’t slow your team down. PermitFlow helps developers, builders, and contractors streamline every phase of the permitting process — from application prep to final inspection.
With PermitFlow, you get:
- Upfront research: Know exactly what Franklin TN permitting rules apply before you break ground
- Centralized dashboard: Track every permit across multiple jobs in one place
- Fewer rejections: Submit complete, accurate applications the first time
- Real-time updates: Stay ahead of review timelines, inspector comments, and resubmittals
Ready to simplify permitting in Franklin and beyond? Talk to a PermitFlow expert today.
