Nashville codes department anticipates $9M excess revenue by year end

Nashville's Codes and Building Safety department is on track to significantly contribute to the city's general fund, with projections indicating a $9 million surplus by the end of the fiscal year. During the Metro Council Operating Budget Hearings on May 14, 2025, officials reported that revenue collections have already surpassed expenses by over $7.7 million, with expectations to reach $27 million in total revenue.

The department anticipates issuing more than 13,500 building permits this fiscal year, reflecting a construction value exceeding $4.6 billion. This marks a remarkable 308% increase in construction value over the past 23 years, underscoring Nashville's rapid growth and development.

Despite a slight decrease in staffing, with 106 positions filled out of 107, the department is actively working to fill 13 vacancies for inspector roles. Efforts to enhance service include restoring a savings target to facilitate hiring, which aims to improve response times and service quality for the community.

Notably, the department has made strides in language accessibility, employing five bilingual staff members to assist non-English speaking customers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure equitable access to services, with 40% of customers at the zoning help desk speaking either Spanish or Arabic.

The meeting also highlighted the successful collaboration with Hub Nashville, which has streamlined customer requests across various divisions of the Codes department. Additionally, pay increases for inspection staff have been recommended to attract and retain qualified personnel, enhancing the department's overall service capabilities.

As Nashville continues to grow, the Codes and Building Safety department remains committed to providing exceptional customer service and meeting the needs of its diverse community.