Deck Permits in Cheatham County, TN

TL:DR - Deck Permits in Cheatham County, TN

  • Most decks in Cheatham County require a permit, especially if attached to the home, connected to an exit door, over 200 square feet, or more than 30 inches above grade.
  • The permit application process involves submitting a completed application, detailed plans, a site plan, proof of paid taxes (Adequate Facilities and Development Tax), and contractor information if applicable.
  • Fees are based on the deck's size and whether it's covered, plus additional taxes. For example, a 300-square-foot uncovered deck would cost $170.00 in permit and taxes.
  • Building without a permit can lead to double fees, fines, stop-work orders, legal consequences (Class B misdemeanor), mandatory removal of the deck, and issues with insurance and resale.

If you’re building soon, read the details below.

We know the feeling. The Cheatham County sun is shining, the backyard is calling, and all you can picture is the perfect custom deck for relaxing and entertaining. You’ve got the design sketched out, the materials picked, and maybe you’re even dreaming about that first cookout.

But before the first post hole is dug, there’s one critical step that can save you a massive headache: navigating the local permit process.

At Keystone Custom Decks, we build beautiful, high-quality decks across Tennessee, and we hear the sighs of frustration every day when homeowners first look at the paperwork they have to deal with. It’s almost as if these county officials don’t want you to build anything! 

Dealing with building codes and local regulations can feel overwhelming, almost like trying to translate a foreign language—but don't worry. We’re here to walk you through exactly what you need to know about getting a deck permit in Cheatham County, Tennessee. Consider us your trusted, local guide, dedicated to ensuring your dream deck is built beautifully, safely, and legally.

Table of Contents

Do You Need a Permit for Your Cheatham County Deck?

That’s usually the first question for anyone wanting to build a deck, and the answer is almost always yes, especially for a quality deck attached to your home.

Cheatham County adopts the statewide building codes, specifically the International Residential Code (IRC), and the local Codes Department enforces these rules to protect you, your family, and your investment.

When a Permit IS Required

In Cheatham County, a building permit is required for most decks and additions. Generally, you will need a permit if your deck:

  • Is attached to the dwelling.
  • Is connected to a required exit door.
  • Exceeds 200 square feet in area.
  • Is more than 30 inches (2.5 feet) above the finished grade (the ground) at any point.
Minigraphic 1

When a Permit is NOT Required (Exemptions)

The only decks that are exempt from needing a formal permit are those that meet all of the following conditions:

  1. They do not exceed 200 square feet in area.
  2. They are not more than 30 inches above grade at any point.
  3. They are not attached to the dwelling.
  4. They do not serve the required exit door.

Here’s what that means for you: If you are building a large, elevated deck that attaches to your house, you absolutely need a permit. Even a small deck that’s connected to your back door for egress requires an application to ensure it meets safety standards. However, if there’s ever any doubt that your deck might come remotely close to tripping any of the permit requirements, it’s a safer bet to check with the permitting authorities than to find out later that you did need a permit after all.

The Cheatham County Deck Permit Application Process

The process is straightforward, but it requires careful preparation. Here is a step-by-step overview of what you’ll need to submit to the Cheatham County Codes Department in Ashland City.

1. Preparation and Required Documents

Before you visit the office or apply online, gather the following:

  • A Completed Permit Application: You must fill out the official Application for Building Permit.
  • Detailed Plans: You’ll need a set of construction plans and specifications that show all dimensions, materials, foundation details (footings), and railing design. These plans must meet the minimum standards of the adopted building code.
  • Site Plan/Survey: A drawing that shows the location of the proposed deck in relation to your existing home and, crucially, your property lines. This is necessary to verify compliance with setback requirements.
Rolled architectural blueprints laid out for deck construction planning and permit approval. Caption: Before you visit the office or apply for a permit, you will need a drawing that shows the location of the proposed deck in relation to your existing home and, crucially, your property lines. This is necessary to verify compliance with setback requirements.
  • Proof of Fees Paid (Taxes): You must show receipts or exemption forms proving the Adequate Facilities Tax and the Development Tax have been paid to Cheatham County.
  • Contractor Information: If you hire a contractor (like us!), they must provide a copy of their valid State of Tennessee Contractor's License and proof of Worker's Compensation insurance. Pro tip: Homeowners can only pull a permit for their primary residence once every 2 years if the project is for their own use.

2. Cost and Fees

Cheatham County assesses fees based on the size and scope of the structure:

  • Deck Permit Fee (Uncovered): $0.30 per square foot of the deck area.
  • Deck Permit Fee (Covered/New Addition): $0.60 per square foot (if you are adding a roof structure).
  • Adequate Facilities Tax: $0.10 per square foot (for residential construction/additions).
  • Development Tax: $50.00 (flat fee).

For example, a 300-square-foot uncovered deck would cost $90.00 for the building permit fee, plus the adequate facilities tax ($30.00) and the development tax ($50.00), totaling $170.00, not including any specific city or utility fees.

As the old saying goes, the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Ensure you have paid all required fees to avoid running afoul of the building authorities and incurring heavier fines if it is discovered that you did not do your due diligence.

3. Submitting the Application

Applications can often be submitted online or in person. Cheatham County maintains an online portal for applications and permitting:

Specific Cheatham County Zoning and Design Requirements

This is where the rubber meets the road. The safety and longevity of your deck depend entirely on these specific structural standards specified in 2012 International Residential Code (IRC) . Loudon County, TN provides an illustrated handout of deck standards similar to what is expected in Cheatham County.

Zoning and Setbacks

Your deck must comply with local zoning rules, even if you have a permit. This is particularly important for detached or large accessory structures.

  • Front Setback: The deck must be outside the required front-yard setback for your specific zoning district.
  • Side and Rear Setbacks: Accessory structures must generally be at least five feet from any side or rear property line. Always confirm your exact zoning and setback requirements with the Codes Department before finalizing your design.

Structural Requirements and Materials

Minigraphic 2

Railing and Stair Specifications (Guards)

For safety, any walking surface 30 inches or more above grade must be protected by a guardrail (railing).

  • Guardrail Height: Must be a minimum of 36 inches tall (measured from the top of the deck surface to the top of the rail).
  • Baluster Spacing (The 4-Inch Rule): The spacing between balusters, decorative rails, or any opening in the guardrail must be such that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through at any point.
  • Stair Rise and Run: Stairs must have a minimum tread depth (run) of 10 inches and a maximum riser height (rise) of 7 ¾ inches. The stairs must also be at least 36 inches wide.
  • Handrails: Required for stairs with four or more risers. The top of the handrail must be installed between 34 and 38 inches above the nose of the stair tread.

You can find more information on deck railing requirements in a blog post by TimberTech, one of our decking partners.

Inspection Requirements

Once your permit is issued, your project will be subject to inspections. This is the inspector's way of verifying that your plan has been executed correctly, and it’s a non-negotiable step to ensure safety.

While your specific inspection schedule may vary, deck projects typically require at least these two stages:

  1. Footing/Foundation Inspection: This is required before you pour concrete. The inspector needs to verify that your holes are the correct depth, width, and placement as shown on your approved plans. Don’t pour concrete until it’s approved.
  2. Final Inspection: This is required after the deck is fully completed, including all steps, railings, and fasteners. The inspector checks for proper attachment, spacing, and code compliance. Once this passes, you can officially use your new deck!

What Happens if You Build Without a Permit?

It’s tempting to skip the paperwork, but doing so carries serious and costly consequences in Cheatham County.

Contractor building a deck frame outdoors using power tools and treated lumber. Caption: The Cheatham County Codes Department has the authority to issue a penalty fine equal to double the original permit fee if you are found building without authorization.
  • Double Fees and Fines: The Cheatham County Codes Department has the authority to issue a penalty fine equal to double the original permit fee if you are found building without authorization.
  • Stop Work Order: If construction is discovered, the county will issue a Stop Work Order. All work must cease immediately, and you will be forced to apply for the permit retroactively.
  • Legal Consequences: Under Tennessee Code § 68-120-108, violating the building code (which includes failing to obtain a required permit) constitutes a Class B misdemeanor.
  • Mandatory Removal: If the structure is deemed unsafe or violates zoning/setbacks and cannot be brought up to code, the county can order you to tear down the entire deck at your expense.
  • Insurance and Resale Issues: Unpermitted work may void your homeowner’s insurance coverage if the deck fails, and it will complicate—and often derail—the sale of your property when an appraiser or home inspector flags the lack of permits.

The Contractor Advantage: Working With a Local Expert

We understand that navigating these rules can feel like a part-time job. This is where working with a local professional, like Keystone Custom Decks, really pays off.

A local contractor who specializes in Tennessee deck building already knows the 2012 IRC standards and, most importantly, has a working relationship with the Cheatham County Codes Department staff. We handle the paperwork, draw the plans to code, schedule the inspections, and ensure your deck passes on the first try. It’s the difference between a frustrating delay and a smooth, enjoyable building process.

Helpful Cheatham County Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always contact the Cheatham County Building & Codes Department directly:

Resource Information Link/Contact
Cheatham County Codes Department Office Address and primary contact for all permitting questions. Address: 338 Frey Street, Ashland City, TN 37015
Phone: (615) 792-7915
Building & Codes Main Page Access to FAQs, adopted codes, fees, and forms. Cheatham County Building & Codes
Online Permit Application Direct link to the county's digital permitting portal. Cheatham County Permitting Portal (iWorQ)
Zoning Resolution Official document outlining all local land use and setback requirements. Cheatham County Zoning Resolution (PDF)