Home Construction & Renovations

If you are looking to build a home, renovate or add a shed/accessory building to your property, please contact our Building and Codes Official Dan Maxwell at 423-842-2533 or e-mail him at dmaxwell@lakesitetn.gov. The Frequently Asked Questions section below might answer some of your questions.

If you know which permits you need and are ready to apply, please click on Building Permits below to access our permitting portal iWorQ. 

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for an outbuilding or storage shed (accessory use building)? 

If you are constructing a building of any size on your property, then a building permit is required.  If you are placing a prefabricated building on your lot, it does not need to be inspected unless it is greater than 150 sq/ft in size. 

Are setbacks required for a storage shed or outbuilding?

No, but proper placement would require a survey of property lines or knowledge of the previous survey pins in to prevent encroachment on your neighbor’s lot.

Are you allowed to have an occupational structure (mother-in law suite or apartment) separate from your primary residence on the same lot?

You are only allowed one living or occupational structure per lot.

What are the setbacks for a primary structure on a lot?

The front and rear yard must be at least 25 feet from the lot line and the side yards must have a minimum of 10 feet from the lot line.

Do you need a permit to install a fence? 

Fences less than 7 feet tall do not require a permit.

Do I need a permit to have an inground pool installed?

A permit is required for pool installations.  You can access permits via our iWorQ portal https://lakesitetn.portal.iworq.net/portalhome/lakesitetn

Do I need a fence around a pool?

Any pool with a depth of 4 feet or greater needs at minimum, a 4-foot child proof barrier around the entire structure with a latching gate.

Do I need a permit to fix or repair a deck?

No, If it’s just replacing decking or railing.  Yes, if any structural components such as posts or beams are being replaced.

If a deck of any size is constructed new, then a permit will be required.

Do I have to pull a permit online?  I do not have enough experience with computers to do that myself.  Can you help me?

Yes, you can contact our Building Official Dan Maxwell at City Hall 8am-2pm Monday through Thursday and 8am-12pm on Friday.  Our phone number is 423-842-2533 and my email address is dmaxwell@lakesitetn.gov.