Building

Obtaining a Permit (In Person Process)

Before any construction can begin, construction plans must be approved by the Building Official of the City of Oak Hill in person (everyday 8:30 - 12:30). A permit is then issued, and a formal inspection of various phases of construction will be made by the Building Official or his designated inspector.

Construction must be performed by a Tennessee State licensed contractor, with proof of worker's compensation and liability insurance. A homeowner can pull his/her own building permit as a "Self-Build" permit, making the homeowner the general contractor of the project and thereby responsible for all construction materials and progress for the permit.

The requirement of obtaining building permits applies not only to new structures but to any work that physically changes structures or landforms already on the property, plus any other work regulated by the City building codes and ordinances.  Once the plans have been delivered to the office, it could take up to 3 business days to review the plans for codes compliance.

Mechanical, Electrical or Plumbing (MEP): MEP specific permits and inspections goes through Metro. 

Construction Requirements

After the permit is received, it must be mounted on a frame and placed in the front yard in a location visible from the street and approximately 20 feet from the edge of the street. After construction begins, all structural inspections, including footing, framing, and insulation inspections, will be made by the Building Official of Oak Hill or his representative. The electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits are to be pulled from Metro Codes.

Site Plan Requirements and Example

If your plans meet City zoning ordinances and building codes, and when all fees are paid and/or bonds in place, a building permit will be issued. Your fees are based on the total cost of construction. Make checks payable to the City of Oak Hill.

Inspections

The City's Building Official will make both routines and required inspections during the construction of the building. When the completed structure meets the City's building codes, and all required inspections have been completed by the Building Official, a Final Inspection will then be performed. The structure will be accepted, and the City Manager will be notified that the building is approved for occupancy.

Occupancy

Following the completion of all inspections and the acceptance of the structure, a Certificate of Use and Occupancy will be issued by the City of Oak Hill Building Official, which authorizes the homeowner to inhabit and use the facilities. Failure to obtain the Use and Occupancy permit may result in loss of insurance coverage in the event of a damage claim related to the work, delays in the sale of the property, and/or fines by the City of Oak Hill.