Permit Required? Required
Typical Fee Range $1,200–$4,500 Includes zoning exam ($25), codes tech fee (10%), and plan review (50% of permit fee).
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Metro Nashville Codes Administration →

What's Required in Nashville

  • DADUs are now permitted 'by-right' in most USD residential zones as of 2026
  • Max size is 850 sq ft for lots <10,000 sq ft, and 1,200 sq ft for larger lots
  • Height limit: 10ft eaves for 1-story; 17ft for 2-story (must be subordinate to main house)
  • DADUs on single-family (RS) lots are generally prohibited from Short-Term Rental use
  • Historic districts require Metro Historic Zoning Commission approval
  • Separate water/electric meters may be requested via NES/Metro Water

How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Nashville?

Budget $1,200–$4,500 for the Nashville permit itself (valuation-based), issued by the Metro Nashville Codes Administration — but treat that as the entry fee, not the total. ADUs are full dwelling units, so the permit stack usually includes building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trade permits, plus plan review. One local note: includes zoning exam ($25), codes tech fee (10%), and plan review (50% of permit fee). Get an itemized fee estimate from the department before finalizing your budget; the spread between a simple conversion and a new detached build is wide.

ADU Size Limits and Zoning Rules in Nashville

Before drawing plans, check the two gates that sink most ADU projects: size and zoning. Size ceilings vary by lot and ADU type (attached, detached, or conversion), so confirm your specific configuration. Setbacks, height limits, and utility connections layer on top of those rules. The Metro Nashville Codes Administration can confirm what your specific lot allows — worth doing before you pay for architectural drawings rather than after.

How to Get a ADU Permit in Nashville

1

Step 1: Zoning Verification

Verify your lot is in the Urban Services District (USD) to utilize 'by-right' construction.

2

Step 2: Professional Plans

Develop architectural and structural plans using the new 2026 standards.

3

Step 3: ePlans Submittal

Submit documents through the Metro Nashville ePlans system for concurrent review.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the valuation-based building fees and required surcharges via ePermits.

5

Step 5: Inspections

Schedule standard home-build sequence: Footing, Framing, Rough-in, and Final.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 2026 standards allow detached units by-right on most residential lots in the Urban Services District.
Up to 850 sq ft on small lots and 1,200 sq ft on lots 10,000 sq ft or larger.
Fees generally start at $1,200 and increase with the project's construction value.