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Nashville Build Expo 2026

Music City Center - Nashville, TN

Jessica Shepherd

Jessica Shepherd

Customer Service Leader | Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County

Presenter bio
Jessica Shepherd is a Nashville native with 25 years of customer service leadership experience and eight years serving with the Zoning Division of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, where she leads a team of six at the Zoning Help Desk. Last year, her team assisted more than 50,000 customers by email, phone, and in person, helping residents and professionals navigate zoning and permitting processes with clarity, efficiency, collaboration, and a practical, customer-focused approach.
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Wednesday, July 1, 2026 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Room 6
International Code Council (1 credit) Permits Codes

Codes Permitting Process

The permitting process ensures that all proposed construction, development, land use, and property improvements comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Applicants submit permit applications, plans, and supporting documentation for review by Codes and Zoning staff. Plans are evaluated for compliance with zoning ordinances, building codes, land-use requirements, safety standards, and other applicable regulations.

During the review process, staff may coordinate with multiple departments and agencies to address requirements related to zoning, building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, stormwater, fire prevention, and public infrastructure. Applicants may be required to revise plans or provide additional information to achieve compliance.

Once all reviews are approved and applicable fees are paid, permits are issued, authorizing the proposed work to begin. Required inspections are conducted throughout the project to verify compliance with approved plans and code requirements. Upon successful completion of all inspections, the project may receive final approval, a certificate of occupancy, or other applicable authorization, depending on the scope of work.

The permitting process promotes public safety, protects property values, supports orderly development, and ensures that construction and land-use activities meet established community standards.

Target audience: Building Inspectors, Code Enforcement Officers, Commercial and Home Builders

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