Inside the Athens city limits, you pull a permit before the first nail

Inside Athens city limits, a building permit is needed for new construction and many changes to existing structures. Do not start the work until the permit is issued.

The city uses MGOconnect, also called My Government Online, for applications and inspection scheduling. Development Services is at 501 U.S. Highway 175 West in Athens.

The city process applies only inside Athens. A lot near Cedar Creek Reservoir or on a rural road may sit outside city limits. In that case, Henderson County development or floodplain rules may be the right place to start.