Building Permits

INSTRUCTIONS FOR OBTAINING A PERMIT IN THE CITY OF OAK RIDGE

All building, electrical and plumbing permits must be obtained separately. Each permit application must be filled out completely.

Two (2) sets of site prints and two (2) sets of building plans must accompany building permits submitted. Small projects such as decks, residential additions, etc. can be hand drawn with sufficient clarity and detail to indicate the nature and character of the work. All commercial plans prepared by an architect or engineer shall be affixed with their name and address or their official seal.

Building, electrical and plumbing contractors must have a business license in the City of Oak Ridge for jobs up to $25,000. For jobs over $25,000 the State of Tennessee must license them.

Building, electrical and plumbing contractors must have a certificate of General Liability Insurance with the Certificate Holder listed as: The City of Oak Ridge, PO Box 1, Oak Ridge, TN 37831-0001

Homeowners may obtain a building, electrical and plumbing permit without having a Certificate of Insurance. The homeowner can only pull electrical and plumbing permits when he/she occupies the residence in question. The homeowner must meet with the Electrical Inspector or the Plumbing Inspector before obtaining a permit. A homeowner can only build one house every two years with a homeowner's permit. Workman's Compensation Insurance is required if any employees are hired.

Commercial property owners may obtain a building permit up to $25,000 with approved plans. Only an electrical or plumbing contractor can obtain permits for commercial work (Workman's Compensation is required if any employees are hired).

Inspections:
All inspections should be requested at least four (4) hours in advance. To schedule an inspection call  425-3532 with the permit number.A person in charge must be on the job site at the time of inspection.

Inspections required:
Footing - after footing is dug, but before the pouring of concrete.
Rough-In- Building, Electrical and Plumbing needs an inspection before the work is concealed or covered. The rough-in electrical and plumbing inspections must be performed before the rough-in building inspection can be scheduled.
Final- building, electrical and plumbing need inspections after all work is completed.The final plumbing and electrical inspections must be performed before the final building inspection can be scheduled
Meter Set

The authorization for the installation of the electric meter will be given only after all inspections have been completed and a Certificate of Occupancy has been issued.