Memphis Zoning & Permits
Zoning rules, permit requirements, and building codes for Memphis, TN. Source-cited from official municipal code.
Quick Facts
Population
633,104
Total Zone Types
38
Planning Department
Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development
Zoning Map
Interactive online map
County
Shelby County
Metro Area
Memphis-Forrest City
Memphis Zoning System
The Memphis zoning system includes 38 total zone classifications: 8 residential zones (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5, and others) and 6 commercial zones (N-1, N-2, B-1, B-2, and others), as well as 2 mixed-use zones (MU-1, MU-2) and 3 industrial zones (I-1, I-2, I-3). Memphis zoning is governed by the Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code (UDC), reflecting the consolidated planning function between the City of Memphis and Shelby County government. Unlike Nashville (Metro Nashville-Davidson County), Memphis and Shelby County have separate governments but share a unified planning framework through the Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development. Memphis is Tennessee's largest city by population, with a housing market shaped by high vacancy rates in older neighborhoods, a significant African-American cultural heritage (birthplace of the blues, home of Sturtevant), and proximity to the Mississippi River. Tennessee has no statewide ADU law — Memphis rules are purely local under the UDC. The city maintains an interactive zoning map for property lookup.
View Memphis Zoning Map (interactive online map)
Building & Planning Departments
The Memphis Building Department (Memphis Division of Planning and Development) handles all building permit applications, inspections, and code enforcement. You can reach them by phone at (901) 636-6619 or apply online through their permit portal. Office hours: Mon-Fri 8:00am-4:30pm. For zoning questions and land use determinations, contact the Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development at (901) 636-6619. Zoning information is available online. Always verify current requirements directly with the department before beginning any project, as regulations and fees may have changed since this data was last verified.
Planning Department
Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development
(901) 636-6619
Visit WebsiteFrequently 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 and Shelby County Unified Development Code (UDC) — Accessory Dwelling Unit provisions. Last verified April 6, 2026. View source