Do storage sheds require a permit? We get this question often. The answer is “YES.” Regardless of size or the materials used for construction, all storage buildings require a permit. A Residential Accessory Permit (RES-ACC) is required.

An application can be completed online using the Develop 901 Citizen Portal; or an application can be submitted in-person by visiting one of our two Service Centers: Downtown Office in City Hall, 125 North Main Street, Suite 477; or Construction Code Enforcement Office, 6465 Mullins Station Road.

We’re offering training to help customers better navigate our online permitting system, the Develop901 Citizen Portal. They are a big hit, and most sessions are full. Please click this link if you are interested in joining the wait list for one of the sessions. If a space opens, we’ll send you a notification. Remember, the content of each session is similar so attending multiple sessions may not be necessary.

The sessions with limited available seats are listed below. Indicate your interest in a selected session on the waitlist.

May 5 – Plumbing Training

May 17 – Electrical Training

May 19 – Mechanical Training

May 26 – Contractor Licensing: Plumbing

May 26 – LUDS/Planning Training

May 31 – Contractor Licensing: Electrical

June 2 – Building/Elevator Training

June 2 – Contractor Licensing: Building

Training sessions will cover topics geared to improve a user's ability to access and maneuver through the online Develop901 Portal. Topics will include creating and updating your Accela account, the "how-to's" of the Accela application process for permits and approvals, adding a licensed contractor, paying fees, submittal of plans, submitting plans corrections, and how to request inspections in the Develop901 Portal.

Building Safety Month is an international campaign that takes place in May to raise awareness about building safety, reinforcing the need for the adoption of modern, regularly updated building codes and assisting individuals, families, and businesses in understanding what it takes to create safe and sustainable structures. 

This year’s theme is “Safety for All: Building Codes in Action.” Click here to view the State of Tennessee’s proclamation by Governor Bill Lee. To view events provided by the International Code Council, view their site.

Homes built before 1978 present a unique lead hazard risk to the adults and children who live and spend time within them. When children are exposed to lead paint, they are at-risk of becoming lead poisoned, which can affect their growth and development. The Shelby County Department of Housing (SCDH) Lead Hazard Control Program provides free assistance to homeowners, landlords, and renters who want to act proactively against the risk of lead-based paint hazards and who want to protect children from adverse health-related effects.

If you or someone you know lives in a home built before 1978 and also has a child or children (6 years or younger) who spend time in the home, then contact the SCDH Lead Hazard Control Program about a free lead inspection at (901) 222-7600. Eligible residents may receive free lead paint removal services. For more information about the program, visit this site.

Applications are now accepted online via the website Neighborly. Use this site to register and create a new account before beginning an application.