Can I Build Second Story Addition in Memphis, TN? (2026)
Find out if you can build a second story addition in Memphis, TN. Rules, permit requirements, costs, and next steps.
Adding a second story in Memphis, TN is possible in most zones, subject to height limits and structural permit requirements.
A second story addition is one of the most complex home improvement projects in Memphis, TN. It requires a full building permit, structural engineering review, and must comply with the height limits for your zoning district. Unlike a ground-floor addition, a second story changes the roofline and structural load path of your entire home, triggering stricter engineering requirements. In Memphis, zone height limits range from varies feet in R-1 zones — verify your zone before planning.
Second Story Addition Rules in Memphis
Second Story Addition Rules in Memphis: Building permit required: Yes — all second story additions require a permit. Example height limit (R-1): varies feet. Structural engineering drawings required. Setbacks apply to the full structure height.
Costs & Fees
Contact the local building department for current permit fees. Budget separately for structural engineering.
Next Steps
Next steps for adding a second story in Memphis: 1. Hire a structural engineer to assess your existing foundation and framing capacity. 2. Confirm your zone height limit and verify the addition meets all setback requirements. 3. Submit full structural plans and permit application to the local building department. 4. Inspections required at foundation reinforcement, framing, shear panels, and final.
Memphis Division of Planning and Development
Phone: See official source
Website: https://www.develop901.com/
Online Permits: https://www.memphistn.gov/permits-office/
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Memphis planning differ from Nashville's consolidated metro government?
Memphis and Shelby County have a coordinated but not fully consolidated planning structure. The Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development handles planning for both the city and county through a shared Unified Development Code (UDC), but Memphis and Shelby County remain separate governments with separate taxation and services. Nashville (Metro Nashville-Davidson County) is a fully consolidated city-county government. For permitting purposes in Memphis city limits, you work with the Memphis Division of Planning and Development.
Can I build an ADU on my Memphis property?
Yes. Memphis allows accessory dwelling units under the Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code. Maximum size is typically 900 sqft in standard residential zones. You'll need a building permit from the Division of Planning and Development. Tennessee has no statewide ADU law — Memphis rules govern. No owner-occupancy requirement. MLGW connection fees apply if the ADU has independent utility service.
What is MLGW and how does it affect permits?
MLGW (Memphis Light, Gas, and Water) is a combined municipal utility providing electricity, natural gas, and water service to Memphis and surrounding areas. It is one of the few remaining combined utilities in the US. For solar installations, MLGW interconnection is required. MLGW distributes TVA power — TVA's Green Power Providers program governs net metering-equivalent credits. For new construction or ADUs, MLGW connection fees apply.
Are there historic preservation requirements in my Memphis neighborhood?
Memphis has significant historic resources including Beale Street (blues heritage), Victorian Village, and several Midtown neighborhoods. If your property is a contributing structure in a designated historic district, the Memphis Landmarks Commission may require a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior modifications. Check the Division of Planning and Development website or contact them to determine your property's historic status.
Is Memphis in a flood zone?
Many Memphis properties near the Mississippi River and Wolf River are in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. The 2011 Mississippi River flood reached record levels in Memphis. Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) for your property's designation. Properties in SFHA require flood insurance with federally-backed mortgages. Contact the Memphis stormwater management program for more information.
Source: Memphis Division of Planning and Development — Building Regulations. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source