Roane County Building Permit

The following are the latest requirements for obtaining a Roane County Building Permit from the office of the Roane County Building Inspector, and the expected subsequent oversight by that office.  Notes from a meeting between the Architectural Control Committee Chair, the POA Vice President and Glenn Cofer, Roane County Building Inspector, are provided below.  We hope this information will help you better prepare for the overall building process.

1.  A set of blueprints is required for any home built over 2500 square feet before the Building Permit can be issued.  If less than 2500 square feet, blueprints are not required if there is a simple roofline.  If roofline is complicated, then blueprints are required regardless of square footage.

2.  If building in a flood plain, there may be additional requirements.  The 100 year flood plain is consulted before any Building Permit is issued.

3.  You must have a Driveway Permit.  The county must inspect the lot before the Building Permit will be issued.  The inspector will look for proper culvert design and other requirements.

4.  You must have the Septic Permit issued (not just the application).  You must present the "Tap Fee" receipt before the Building Permit will be issued.

5.  The setbacks will be evaluated. (Note: Roane County is 30 feet from the front property line, but Crystal Cove Covenants require 35 feet from the front property line).

6.  The county ordinance limits all construction to a 48 foot height limit, including all exposed basement and sub-basement areas, front or rear.  This emanates from a (circa) 1990 rule, and applies independent of the Building Permit.

7.  The county uses the Standard Building Code (some call it the Southern Building Code).  Look for the International Building Code to be adopted sometime in 2003.

8.  Expect a minimum of 4 inspections by the Building Inspector during construction:  Footers, foundation, framing, final (See Attachment).  Additional electrical, and sewer inspections are also required.

9.  Note especially the requirement for Seal Plates to be bolted to the roof (using anchor bolts).

10.  If stone or brick fireplace, need additional floor support; footers may likely be required if a full stone or masonry fireplace is planned.

11.  State Law requires that for dwellings over $25,000 a builder must be licensed.  This has not always been the case in Roane County, and this requirement will be very closely monitored by the county Building Inspector.

12.  The county will also be doing soil compaction tests in association with the Building Permit cycle to ensure the siting of the dwelling is safe.

13.  For new permits, construction must begin within 180 days, or the Building Permit is voided.  If no work progress in any subsequent 180 day period, the permit is also voided.

14.  A final Occupancy Inspection is required before you can move into the home.  Occupying a partially completed dwelling is prohibited by Roane County.

If you have any questions, you may contact the Roane County Building Inspector, Glen Cofer, directly at (865) 717-4230.