Excavation permits and rules in Tennessee

Anyone digging in Tennessee has to notify Tennessee 811 before work starts. 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}

Tennessee licenses contractors through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. Who needs a license: Projects of $25,000 or more when acting as a prime contractor, certain subcontractor, or construction manager. Specialty classification BC-28 Excavation covers excavation; MU-C and HRA-A cover grading and drainage, with no trade exam for those.^{3, 4}

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