Renovations are now underway at the City County Building to bring a one-stop shop for City permitting services, which will offer one counter for all development needs in the City. 

The intent is to make the process much more efficient and intuitive for developers, contractors, architects, engineers and other professionals seeking permits for various projects. 

“We’re setting it up so you don’t have to come and find us anymore – we’re going to come to you at one desk,” said Peter Ahrens, Director of Plans Review and Inspections. “Making our process more customer friendly is our goal to further business development for Knoxville.”

The permitting offices of the City’s Stormwater Engineering Division and Plans Review and Inspections Department will relocate to a single site on the fourth floor across the hall from the Metropolitan Planning Commission offices. 

“It used to be that people needed to know where they were supposed to go and what they needed before they came to us,” said Chris Howley, Stormwater Engineering Chief. “Soon, permit seekers will be able to simply come to this one desk so that we can direct them on their needs from the start.”

The physical relocation is part of a broader emphasis on improved customer service across all City departments. Last month, the City consolidated nine appeals boards into one construction appeals board that addresses City codes that were recently re-adopted by City Council. 

“These improved services will have such a positive impact on the business community as it streamlines processes and saves time for business owners,” said Patricia Robledo, Business Liaison for the City.

As necessary renovations take place in order to provide this new permitting format, those seeking Stormwater Engineering permits may temporarily visit the Plans Review and Inspections desk in suite 505 of the City County Building. Construction is expected to be completed later this year.

For more information on City permitting, visit www.knoxvilletn.gov/plansreview.