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Franklin County commissioners opt out of statewide one- and two-family building code
Summary
On Dec. 4 the Franklin County Board of Commissioners voted 13–1–1 to opt the county out of the statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings outside municipal limits, authorizing local enforcement instead; the move requires the county clerk to file the resolution with the state fire marshal.
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners voted Monday to opt the county out of the statewide building code standards that apply to one-family and two-family dwellings outside municipal limits.
Under Resolution 12p-1223, adopted at the Board’s Dec. 4 meeting in Winchester, Franklin County will no longer apply the statewide one- and two-family dwelling building code to properties in the county’s unincorporated areas. The resolution passed by a vote of 13 in favor, 1 opposed and 1 abstention. Commissioner Johnny Hand moved the resolution and Commissioner Charles Keller seconded it; Lydia Johnson cast the lone opposing vote and Spike Hosch abstained. One commissioner was absent.
Why it matters: The resolution cites T.C.A. § 68-120-101 as the statutory authority it relies on and instructs the county clerk to file a certified copy of the resolution with the state fire marshal, as required. County officials said the board took the action by formal resolution during the regular meeting after a handout motion was used to suspend the rules and consider the floor item.
How the vote unfolded: The resolution was introduced from the floor and debated briefly under New Business (the transcript records the formal motion and second). The board roll call and the vote tally are recorded in the official minutes: Yes — 13; No — 1 (Lydia Johnson); Abstain — 1 (Spike Hosch); Absent — 1 (Scottie Riddle). The meeting minutes show the resolution text and note that it takes effect upon adoption.
What happens next: The resolution directs the county clerk to file the certified copy with the state fire marshal. The clerk’s transmittal completes the local notification and the board’s directive takes effect immediately under the terms recorded in the minutes.
Public context and questions: The transcript does not record extended debate or a formal staff presentation explaining the board’s rationale beyond the motion on the floor. The board’s recorded vote shows a single formal dissent and one abstention; the minutes do not record additional statements or conditions attached to the resolution. Any enforcement details — including whether county departments will issue alternate permit forms, inspection schedules, or local administrative rules — will depend on subsequent action by county staff and any implementing policies the board directs staff to prepare. The clerk’s filing with the state fire marshal starts the official record of the change.
The board moved on to consider other resolutions and routine business after the vote.
