Metro Codes Department adopts the International Energy Conservation Code, which permits reflective cool-roof assemblies as one compliance path for low-slope commercial and certain residential roofs. Cool roofs are encouraged but not mandated in Davidson County.
Through Metro Code Title 16 building amendments, Davidson County follows the state-adopted edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. The IECC allows builders to satisfy thermal performance through prescriptive insulation, reflective roof surfaces with minimum solar reflectance and thermal emittance values, or whole-building energy modeling. Cool roofs are most common on commercial low-slope assemblies. Residential pitched roofs typically meet code through attic insulation rather than reflectance. Permits are issued by the Metro Codes and Building Safety Department, and inspectors verify roof materials match approved plans. Manufacturers' Cool Roof Rating Council labels are accepted documentation.
Installing a roof assembly that does not match approved permit drawings can trigger a stop-work order and require corrective re-roofing. Penalties follow Metro Codes building enforcement schedules, typically starting around 50 dollars per violation.
Nashville, TN
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See how Nashville's cool roof requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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