Shed permit rules in Nashville, TN — also referred to as storage shed, backyard shed, or accessory building regulations — set size limits, setbacks, and when a building permit is required.
Sheds and carports 10 ft × 10 ft (100 sq ft) or larger require a building permit in Nashville. Smaller sheds are exempt. Sheds must comply with zoning setbacks and may not be used as living space.
Metro Nashville requires a residential building permit for any detached accessory structure (including sheds and carports) that is 10' × 10' or larger (100 sq ft or more). Sheds under 100 sq ft do not require a permit but must still comply with setback requirements. Accessory buildings must provide a minimum rear setback of 3 feet; if garage doors open directly to an alley, the minimum rear setback is 10 feet. No bedrooms, kitchens, or living space are allowed in sheds. Portable storage buildings of 100 sq ft or more are also subject to permit and setback requirements. Electrical work to a shed requires a separate electrical permit regardless of shed size.
Building without permit (for 100+ sq ft): stop-work order + retroactive permit required.
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See how Nashville's shed rules rules stack up against other locations.
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