Tennessee
Updated 3/15/2025
Overview
Tennessee adopts building codes statewide through the Department of Commerce &
Insurance, Division of Fire Prevention. However, local jurisdictions (counties, cities, and
municipalities) may adopt their own versions or amendments, provided they comply with
state requirements.
Local governments must adopt a building code edition within 7 years of the most current version and notify the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) within 60 days of adoption. While the 2021 version of some codes was adopted on April 17, 2025, the 2018 IRC (with state amendments) remains in effect beyond this date.
Local governments must adopt a building code edition within 7 years of the most current version and notify the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) within 60 days of adoption. While the 2021 version of some codes was adopted on April 17, 2025, the 2018 IRC (with state amendments) remains in effect beyond this date.
CodePro Uses the Following Codes for Answers:
- 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) + Tennessee Amendments Amendments:
- 2021 International Plumbing Code (IPC)
- 2017 National Electrical Code (NEC) + Tennessee Amendments
■ Dwellings licensed by the Department of Human Services (DHS) as Family Home Daycares must follow Appendix AM of the 2021 IRC.
■ Fire sprinklers are not mandatory in one- and two-family dwellings.
Additional Resources:
For more details, click here for the state-specific website.
For the latest updates (not affecting the IRC), visit this page.
For a history of code adoption in Tennessee, review this document.
For IBC amendments, refer to this document.
For the latest updates (not affecting the IRC), visit this page.
For a history of code adoption in Tennessee, review this document.
For IBC amendments, refer to this document.
- Adoption Category
Hybrid
- Amendments
State and Local
Hybrid Adoption
A hybrid adoption system means codes can vary at state and local level. Many times the
state establishes a base code for building regulations and local jurisdictions then have the
authority to amend or adopt more stringent requirements. This allows flexibility for cities
and counties to tailor codes to their specific needs while maintaining a foundational
standard set at the state level.