Nashville, TN Building Safety: Elevator Maintenance (2026)

Elevator regulation in Nashville is governed by the Tennessee Elevator Safety Act, administered by the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development's Elevator and Amusement Device Safety Board. The board regulates elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, wheelchair lifts, and other conveyances to ensure public safety. All elevators must be registered with the state and inspected annually by state-licensed inspectors. Elevators must comply with ASME A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators as adopted by the state. Building owners are responsible for the safe operation and maintenance of all elevators, including maintaining qualified maintenance personnel and current service contracts. Current inspection certificates must be posted in or near each elevator. Routine maintenance using equivalent materials does not require a permit. Emergency communication systems must be maintained in all passenger elevators. Nashville's adopted building codes (under Metro Codes) include additional requirements for elevator installation in new construction and significant renovations. The city's construction boom and growing number of high-rise buildings have increased the importance of elevator safety enforcement. Elevator mechanics must hold valid Tennessee licenses.