Roane County Government
The Building Codes and Zoning Department enforces the 2024 International Building Codes together with the Roane County’s zoning ordinances. We’re here to help builders, designers, and property owners understand and comply with Roane County’s permitting, zoning, and inspection process. Our goal is to make it easier to meet requirements, avoid issues, and protect the community’s safety and investments.
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm
Building permit applications and inspection requests must be submitted by 4:00pm. Submittals made between 3:30pm and 4:00pm may not be processed until the following business day.
NOTICE: In Tennessee, consumers may file criminal charges against a contractor or home improvement service provider for Felony Theft and Fraud. Under the law, consumers may attempt to criminally prosecute the contractor. The felony theft law provides specific instruction to follow before filing charges.
Tennessee counties which have building codes must ensure that their codes are no older than seven years. As of January 1, 2026, Roane County adopted the 2024 International Residential Code and the 2024 International Building Code, replacing the 2018 Code.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for please don’t hesitate to contact us at 865-717-4230. We’re here to help!
To legally operate a Short-Term Rental Unit (STR) in Roane County, owners must obtain an annual Short-Term Rental Operating Permit. New STRs may not be advertised or rented until a permit is issued. Properties that were already being used as short-term rentals before the County’s adoption of this regulation may continue operating under Tennessee law, but this eligibility ends if the property is sold, stops operating as an STR for 30 months, or receives three unappealed violations of applicable laws.
To apply for a permit, owners must submit a complete application through the Roane County Building & Codes Office, including proof of a business license, an affidavit of life-safety compliance, owner and local contact information, a site and floor plan, confirmation that no private agreements prohibit STR use, and payment of the $200 non-refundable application fee. Once submitted, Building & Codes conducts fire/life-safety and building inspections, each with one possible re-inspection if needed. If all requirements are met, the County will issue a one-year permit identifying the maximum allowed guest occupancy. Annual renewal requires updated documentation, an inspection, and payment of the $150 renewal fee. Permits cannot be transferred and automatically terminate if the property changes ownership.
A full permit packet with detailed instructions is available for download below.
