What You Should Know About Shed Permits in Tennessee (Before You Build)

There’s something deeply satisfying about building something. Even if you don’t pick up the hammer yourself, just planning a new structure on your property can stir that good kind of energy—a sense that you’re doing something meaningful.

But then paperwork enters the picture.

If you’re looking to add a shed to your land here in Tennessee, you’ll eventually bump into the question: Do I need a permit for this? And like a lot of things in life, the answer is: it depends.

In this post, we at AmishCo want to walk you through what we’ve learned about shed permit requirements in Tennessee—not as a code enforcer, but as a company that values doing things with integrity. Because while it's tempting to skip the red tape, there are good reasons to slow down and build the right way.

Why Permits Matter More Than Paperwork

It’s easy to see permits as a hassle, especially when you're just trying to put up a simple shed to store your mower or tools. If you live in a rural part of the state, you might even get away without one. But here’s the deal:

Permits aren’t just about government oversight. They’re about protecting what you’re building—and, frankly, your peace of mind.

When you take time to get a permit, you’re not just following rules. You’re taking steps to:

• Make sure your shed won’t cause drainage issues or violate zoning laws

• Avoid future fines or being told to move or tear it down

• Show that you’re a good neighbor who cares how things are done

It’s not about perfection. It’s about responsibility.

A Quick Look at Tennessee’s Shed Permit Laws

Statewide, Tennessee doesn’t require a permit for non-habitable sheds under 200 square feet as exemplified in the Wilson County code.

But here’s the catch: local counties and cities can (and often do) add their own rules. And they have the legal right to do so.

That means your buddy in Sevier County might set up a 10x12 without issue, while your property in Davidson or Knox County might require a site plan, setback measurements, and zoning clearance.

So before you do anything else, figure out what county you’re in—and call your local codes office. You can usually find the right contact by searching “[your county] TN shed permit.”

Some helpful county links:

• Davidson County (Nashville)

• Knox County

• Sevier County

When a Shed Does Need a Permit

Let’s make this simple. You’ll likely need a permit if any of these apply:

• Your shed is larger than 120–200 sq ft

• You’re building it on a permanent foundation

• You’re adding electricity, water, or plumbing

• It will be used as a living or working space

• It’s close to your property line, road, or in a flood zone

Some counties care about one or two of these factors. Others care about all of them. That's why checking with your local office is always the wisest first move.

What’s the Process for Getting a Shed Permit?

If you do need a permit, here’s what the process usually looks like:

1. Talk to your local building office. Don’t guess—ask.

2. Gather your info. This includes:

• A sketch of your property with the shed’s location

• The shed’s dimensions and materials

• Possibly, a drawing or blueprint (many counties accept hand-drawn plans)

3. Apply for the permit. Some places let you do this online; others require a visit to the office.

4. Pay the fee. It might be as low as $25 or as high as $150, depending on the area.

5. Schedule inspections if needed. Not all sheds need them, but if your project has utilities or a foundation, it might.

This process isn’t usually complicated—it just takes intention and a bit of time.

Quick Checklist: Shed Permit Prep in Tennessee

Here’s a simple checklist you can keep in your back pocket:

☐ Look up your county’s building code rules
☐ Check zoning setbacks and easements
☐ Talk to your HOA (if you have one)
☐ Sketch out your site plan
☐ List out your shed specs (size, height, materials)
☐ Apply for the permit and pay the fee
☐ Schedule any required inspections 

Common Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make

We've heard stories—and lived a few—where good people made honest mistakes with permits. If we could offer a little heads-up from the other side of the fence, here are a few things to avoid:

• Don’t assume you're exempt just because a friend didn’t need a permit

• Don’t ignore zoning—even small sheds can violate lot line rules

• Don’t skip talking to your HOA if you live in a neighborhood with one

• Don’t forget the inspection step if it’s required in your permit conditions

If you can avoid these mistakes, you’re not just building a shed. You’re protecting your property and your time.

Explore Local Variations (Examples from Around Tennessee)

To give you a clearer picture, here are a few real-world differences across the state:

• Davidson County (Nashville) – If your shed is over 120 sq ft or has electricity, you’ll need a permit. They also have rules about how far structures must be from property lines.

• Knox County – More flexible than Davidson, but still requires permits for any electrical connections or sheds on a permanent foundation.

• Sevier County – In many rural areas, small portable sheds under 200 sq. ft. don’t need a permit, unless they’re being used as a residence or business.

These examples show why it's important not to rely on general info alone. Call your county’s Zoning Office or Building and Codes Department.

So, Why Does All This Matter?

In a world full of people taking shortcuts, there’s something meaningful about doing things the right way—even when no one’s watching.

When you take the time to make sure your shed is built legally and responsibly, you’re not just staying out of trouble. You’re honoring your neighbors. You’re respecting the land. And you’re building something you can stand behind—for real.

At AmishCo, we think that matters.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re planning to build a shed in Tennessee, we’d love to help! Here are a few next steps you can take:

• 🔨  Explore Amishco’s handcrafted shed options

• 📞  Talk to us about what shed works best for your property

• 📚  Learn about our process and what features to consider when buying a shed

We’re here to help you build something beautiful—something that lasts. And something you won’t regret five years from now.