Building Permits

Building permits can be obtained from the office of the Building Official. Generally, if the project falls within the guidelines of the Zoning Code, a permit can be issued without going before the Board of Zoning Appeals. The City of Belle Meade has adopted the 2006 ICC International Residential Code. According to Section R101.3 of the International Residential Code, the purpose of this code is to provide minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment. The provisions of the Code apply to the construction, addition, alteration and repair of one and two family dwellings and their accessory structures. For more information, contact:

Terry Franklin

Building Official
(615) 297-2364 x15
tfranklin@citybellemeade.org

Phil Buma

Building Inspector
(615) 297-2364 x29
pbuma@citybellemeade.org

All plans and documents submitted for permits shall become the property of the City of Belle Meade. The following data shall be submitted for building permit:

Plot Plan Requirements for All New Houses or Additions

  1. Submit two (2) sets of plans.
  2. Scale of one inch (1”) equals (30’) thirty feet.
  3. Show site plan with property line dimensions, building envelope, existing and proposed contours, with principle structure and all accessory structures, driveway, sewer tank and control box location.
  4. Neighborhood site plan showing neighbor’s house and measurements to them.
  5. Show all new construction in shaded area.
  6. Submit sewer application form.
  7. Show storm water BMP’s.
  8. Fees must be paid in advance for all engineering/professional reviews.

Building Plans: scaled ¼” inch = 1 foot

  1. Foundation plans indicating width, depth, reinforcement type and anchor size and type.
  2. Cross wall section.
  3. Floor plan with dimensions.
  4. Size and length of floor joist, girders, and rafters.
  5. Front elevations from average natural grade and finish floor elevation.
  6. Front, sides, and rear elevations with existing grade and finish grade.
  7. Volume drawing and calculations.
  8. Complete the land to building ratio chart.
  9. Energy code calculations.

Building Permit Requirements

  1. Building permits are issued after properly completing permit applications.
  2. Applicant must show evidence of state contractor’s license and worker’s compensation insurance.
  3. Building permits are required when owner or authorized agent intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure.
  4. The permit fee is due upon issuance of the permit.
  5. After permit is issued, inspections must be requested by the owner/agent at various states, (see inspection handout).

Note: All necessary electrical, mechanical and plumbing permits are to be obtained from the proper Metropolitan Nashville Codes Administration office. The building code of the City of Belle Meade requires that all such permits and associated inspections be obtained. Plans and specifications prepared by an architect shall bear the Architects seal and date in accordance with state laws and regulations.

Appeals

Generally, if a project does not fall within the guidelines of Belle Meade’s Zoning Code, the homeowner must file an application with the Board of Zoning Appeals and seek approval for the project before a building permit can be issued. The Board of Zoning Appeals meets the third Tuesday of the month. Deadline for plans and appeal fees will be fifteen (15) calendar days before the meeting. If it is determined that an appeal is needed, the following three items are required:

  1. Application and two sets of plans, consisting of the information listed above under Plot Plan and Building Plan.
  2. Appeal fee and all engineering/professional review fees must be paid when documents are filed. Application for appeal is not complete and will not be placed on the agenda until all fees are paid.
  3. Neighbors “Notice of Project & of Public Hearing” form signed by neighbors who may be affected by the proposal next door, to the rear, across the street, etc.