There are crazy laws in Tennessee that you wouldn't think were applicable to tiny houses.
In Tennessee, many counties have opted out of the building codes.You don't have to get a Building Permit to build a home in those areas.Refer to the list for the cities and counties that have not opted out.
Unless your local jurisdiction has their own Building Inspections and Permitting, you are still required to obtain an electrical and plumbing permit from the State.
The Health Departments do not have their own Permitting or Regulations, so you have to go to the Department of Environment and Conservation.You can apply for the permit online.The permit costs $400 and the percolation test costs $100.00.The permit is valid for three (3) years from the date of receipt.If you don't have a Septic Tank Completion Permit from the State Inspectors, you will not be issued an electrical permit.The State of Tennessee requires licensed contractors to install Septic Tanks.Grey Water can't be dumped on the ground in Tennessee.
Tiny Houses are allowed in Davidson County Metro, however they are very strict.The code is listed in the link below.
Tiny Houses can be found in the City of Knoxville, however they have strict guidelines and regulations to follow.The specific Guidelines can be found at the above link.
They allow accessory dwelling units behind an existing structure.
One of the Opted Out Counties is Cocke County, Tennessee.There is a Tiny House Community planned near the Bilbee Area of the County, however, due to the State Ready Removables Law they are not permitted.According to the County Mayors Office, all of the sites will be off- grid.The Permitting is referred to the State because of the Opting Out of Building Codes.
Tiny Houses on Wheels are not allowed in the County.