Chattanooga, TN Outdoor Cooking: Outdoor Kitchen Permits (2026)

Outdoor kitchens in Chattanooga that include permanent gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work require permits from the Land Development Office under City Code Part II Chapter 4 (Buildings). Natural gas line extensions to a built-in grill require a Mechanical/Gas Permit and must be installed by a contractor licensed under the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. Electrical work (outlets, lighting, refrigerators) requires an Electrical Permit and a licensed electrician under Tennessee state law and the adopted National Electrical Code. Plumbing for outdoor sinks needs a Plumbing Permit. Structures larger than the accessory structure threshold, attached to the home, or with permanent foundations require a Building Permit. Accessory structure zoning standards under the Chattanooga Zoning Ordinance apply: typically 5 feet minimum from side and rear lot lines, and behind the front building line. Historic Zoning overlay districts (Fort Wood, M.L. King, St. Elmo, Ferger Place, Glenwood, MLK) require Chattanooga Historic Zoning Commission Certificate of Appropriateness before building permits issue. Portable grills require no permits.