What documents do I need for a Deck permit in Memphis?

Memphis requires 6 documents for a Deck permit, including: Construction Plans per Tennessee Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, Foundation and Footing Specifications, Guard Rail Specifications per Tennessee Code, and more.

What are the most commonly missing items for Memphis Deck permits?

Common missing items include detailed site plans with scale and dimensions, equipment specification sheets, and NEC labeling plans. A complete checklist helps avoid plan-check rejections.

Do I need a deck permit in Memphis?

Yes. Memphis requires a deck permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.

How long does deck permit approval take in Memphis?

Processing times in Memphis vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Memphis Development Services for current timelines.

What documents are required for a deck permit in Memphis?

Memphis requires 6 documents including Construction Plans per Tennessee Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, Foundation and Footing Specifications, and others. See the full list above for details.

What happens if I build without a deck permit in Memphis?

Building without a permit in Memphis can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.

Can PermitMagic help prepare my deck permit submission in Memphis?

Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Memphis's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.

How much does a deck permit cost in Memphis?

Deck permit fees in Memphis typically range from $165 to $462, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Memphis.

Deck Permit Requirements in Memphis, Tennessee

Everything you need to apply for a deck permit in Memphis, Tennessee — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.

Build My Permit Packet

Key Facts

Permit required: Yes
Submission method: Online
Typical fee range: $165 – $462
Review time: Varies by jurisdiction
Inspections: 8 inspections required

VerifiedLast verified: Feb 15, 20261 verified source

Limited Data Available

Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Memphis directly.

Permit Requirements (6 items)

6 required

📋 Forms & Applications(1)

📐 Plans & Diagrams(3)

📄 Supporting Documents(2)

Avoid rejections — generate a submission-ready packet

Get a personalized Deck permit packet for Memphis, Tennessee — tailored to your project details.

Required forms: Contractor Information, and more
Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
Fee breakdown: $55–$280 estimated total
Step-by-step City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development portal submission guide
Inspection prep checklist (8 items)
Personalized for your specific project details

Build My Permit Packet

Free to preview · Pro to download

Permit Process

Follow these steps to submit your permit application through City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development.

1
Submit Permit Application
Submit completed permit application with construction plans and site survey to Planning and Development Division
You'll need: Construction Plans per Tennessee Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan
2
Ownership and Contractor Verification
Verify property ownership and confirm contractor licenses and insurance if applicable
You'll need: Proof of Property Ownership, Contractor Information
3
Code Compliance Plan Review
Review of plans for Tennessee Building Code compliance including 18-inch moderate frost line requirement, structural adequacy, 36-inch guard rail height, and material standards
You'll need: Construction Plans per Tennessee Building Code, Foundation and Footing Specifications, Guard Rail Specifications per Tennessee Code
4
Permit Issuance
Approved permit is issued and construction may begin per approved plans
5
Foundation and Framing Inspection
Inspector verifies footings reach 18-inch minimum depth, posts are properly set, and framing meets Tennessee Building Code specifications
6
Final Inspection and Approval
Final inspection confirms 36-inch guard rail height, 4-inch baluster spacing, all connections secure, and deck is safe for use

Fees and Timeline

Fee Breakdown

Fee	Range	Confidence
Residential Deck Permit Fee	$110 – $280	Verified
Plan Review Fee	$55 – $182	Verified

Inspections Required

Verify footing depth is 18 inches minimum below finished gra

Verify footing depth is 18 inches minimum below finished grade for Memphis moderate frost line

Check posts are properly anchored and secured in footings

Inspect footing material and bearing capacity for local soil

Inspect footing material and bearing capacity for local soil conditions

Verify guard rail height meets 36-inch Tennessee Building Co

Verify guard rail height meets 36-inch Tennessee Building Code minimum

Check balusters spacing does not exceed 4 inches

Verify fasteners are appropriate gauge and resistant to humi

Verify fasteners are appropriate gauge and resistant to humidity and rust

Inspect framing connections per Tennessee Building Code spec

Inspect framing connections per Tennessee Building Code specifications

Check proper drainage and moisture protection for humid clim

Check proper drainage and moisture protection for humid climate

Authority Sources

Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.

City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development

Last verified: February 15, 2026

1 source referenced

Official page

City of Memphis Planning and Development Division

Verified February 15, 2026

Official page

Tennessee Building Code

Verified February 15, 2026

Official page

Residential Deck Permit Standards

Verified February 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a deck permit in Memphis?: Yes. Memphis requires a deck permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
How long does deck permit approval take in Memphis?: Processing times in Memphis vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Memphis Development Services for current timelines.
What documents are required for a deck permit in Memphis?: Memphis requires 6 documents including Construction Plans per Tennessee Building Code, Property Survey and Site Plan, Proof of Property Ownership, Foundation and Footing Specifications, and others. See the full list above for details.
What happens if I build without a deck permit in Memphis?: Building without a permit in Memphis can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
Can PermitMagic help prepare my deck permit submission in Memphis?: Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Memphis's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
How much does a deck permit cost in Memphis?: Deck permit fees in Memphis typically range from $165 to $462, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Memphis.