Smyrna, TN Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

Title 12, Chapter 9 of the Smyrna Municipal Code creates the machinery that inspects construction. Section 12-901 establishes the codes enforcement and inspection division "under the supervision, direction, and administration of the planning manager." Section 12-902 has the planning manager appoint the building official, who heads the division and reports directly to the planning manager.

Section 12-903 defines the work. The division is responsible for supervision, administration, and enforcement of all building codes, plumbing codes, gas codes, housing codes, and health codes of the town. It also observes and inspects the installation of public improvements that the Planning Commission has ordered or permitted developers to install, handles zoning enforcement, issues and approves all building and occupancy permits, and reviews all building plans.

Section 12-904 covers entry. The division is authorized to enter premises or structures at reasonable times to inspect and enforce applicable codes, subject to constitutional restrictions on unreasonable searches and seizures. If entry is refused or not obtained, the codes official or a designee can seek an administrative inspection warrant.

Local edits to the 2024 International Building Code in Section 12-102 shape what the inspectors see. Section 103.1 names the department "Building Safety." Section 105.2, work exempt from permit, item 1, changes 120 sq ft to 100 sq ft. Wherever a certificate of occupancy is mentioned, it reads "Certificate of Occupancy/Certificate of Completion." For electrical work, Section 12-1102 lets only designated circuits be energized after a "service release" inspection, valid for 45 days from the date of inspection.

An owner who disputes an inspector's call uses Chapter 10. Written notice goes to the building official within 30 calendar days after the decision (Section 12-1010). The Board meets within 30 calendar days after notice, gives all interested parties notice no less than ten days before the hearing (Section 12-1012), and decides no later than 60 days from the hearing (Section 12-1013). Where the building official or fire official finds a structure unsafe, unsanitary, or dangerous, the order can shorten the appeal period (Section 12-1011).