Excavation permits and rules in Tennessee
What the state requires before and during excavation work, with the page each rule comes from. It's a summary of the published rules, not legal advice, and a county or city can add rules of its own.
Checked September 19, 2026
Calling 811 before you dig
Anyone digging in Tennessee has to notify Tennessee 811 before work starts. Call 811 at least 3 working days, and no more than 10, before digging.1-2
Text of the law
The notice period under Tenn. Code Ann. 65-31-101 to 65-31-120: at least three (3) working days prior to the actual date of excavation or demolition, but not more than ten (10) full working days prior.1-2
Licensing
Tennessee licenses contractors through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. A license is needed for jobs of $25,000 or more, for prime contractors, construction managers and some subcontractors. Specialty classification BC-28 Excavation covers excavation; MU-C and HRA-A cover grading and drainage, with no trade exam for those.3-4
Text of the law
Projects of $25,000 or more when acting as a prime contractor, certain subcontractor, or construction manager.3-4
Stormwater and erosion control
A stormwater permit is needed at 1 acre, including smaller sites that are part of a larger common plan of development or sale. Coverage is under the NPDES General Permit for Discharges of Stormwater Associated with Construction Activities TNR100000.5
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Sources
What excavation costs in Tennessee
Published national ranges for the common jobs, the regional adjustment for Tennessee, and a planning estimate you can run for your own county.
Contractors in Tennessee
Tennessee has 797 excavation contractors listed, and 410 of them hold an active USDOT registration. Browse them by county, or ask for quotes and we'll match you with excavation contractors near you.
Cite this page
“Excavation permits and rules in Tennessee.” LeaderExcavation.com, updated September 19, 2026. https://leaderexcavation.com/tn/rules/