General Frequently Asked Questions

• When do I need a Building Permit?
  Whenever a person wishes to construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move, renovate, demolish, or permanently place any building, or structure.
• What can I do about my neighbor's "junky" residence?
  Call us at Building and Codes to make a complaint for any property within the county limits. For properties within the city limits, call City Building and Codes at 645-7426.
• How do I determine what my property is zoned?
  The most accurate contact would be the Regional Planning Commission at 645-7448.
• Is a burn permit required in the County?
  Yes, contact the Forestry Service at 552-3909 or 1-800-367-3507.
• How do I get my property rezoned?
  Contact the Regional Planning Commission at 645-7448
• Where do I obtain an Electrical Permit if I live in the County?
  At the Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation (CEMC) 1940 Madison Street.
• Where can I obtain a book that contains all building codes for Montgomery County?
  Contact the ICC (International Code Council) at 1-800-877-2224 to obtain a 1997 edition code book (approx.$100 cost).
• Do I have to have a permit for my above ground pool?
  Yes, the fee goes by cost of pool (approx. $20-$35) but first you have to have a Septic Tank Layout showing field lines from Environmental Groundwater if you have a septic tank. Contact the Environment Groundwater office at (931) 553-5181. Their office is located next door to our office.
• Where do I obtain a Plumbing Permit if I live in the County?
  If you are serviced by anyone other than the City of Clarksville you would need to come to our office to pull a Plumbing Permit.
• What do I need to do about demolishing an old house on my property?
  Download and complete the Application for a Demolition Permit. Submit the Application to the Building & Codes Department.

Adequate Facilities Tax Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I have to pay this tax?
  The tax has to be paid before any residential building permits can be issued. You may after paying the tax request an appeal in writing within (30) days to protest the payment. A date will be scheduled within forty-five days of the written request for appeal.
• Where do I pay this tax?
  First portion (Lot AFT) will be paid at the time the deed, minor plat, or subdivision is registered and will be paid at the Register of Deeds office. Parcels over 5 acres will be paid at Montgomery County Building and Codes.
  
  Second portion (Dwelling AFT) will be paid at Montgomery County Building and Codes before pulling building permits for the city or county.
• How much is the AFT?
  First portion (Lot AFT) is $250.00 per lot.
  Second portion (Dwelling AFT) $250.00 per dwelling
  Increasing six percent (6%) annually.
• What information do I need to bring with me?
  • Receipt that shows lot tax has been paid.
  • Tax card or recorded deed and previous deed to show lot remained in original state.
  • Street address (if a corner lot, must provide location of driveway access to determine street address).
• Who is exempt from this tax?
  This tax does not apply to: non profit corporations, non residential facilities, place of worship, public buildings, replacement structures, lots platted prior to 7-1-04, any lot previously paid, or any permanent residential structure replacing mobile homes.
• Who can pay this tax?
  Anyone can pay this tax with the understanding that it is applied to the lot /dwelling of the parcel paid for, and is not transferable to another lot/dwelling.
• Can I pay this tax before I own the property?
  You will need to have all the information required ( see information needed above ) and understand that if you do not purchase this property or if a contractor decides not to take the job, these fees will not be refunded.
• Why do I have to pay AFT at County Building and Codes when I will be pulling a city building permit?
  The house bill #3555, page 4, section 9 requires the county building commissioner to collect the portion for dwellings for the county and must certify that this had been paid in full, before a building permit can be issued by the City of Clarksville.