Starting a Business

Opening a business in Nolensville

WHERE CAN I LOCATE A PARTICULAR KIND OF BUSINESS IN NOLENSVILLE.
Look under Article 2 of the zoning ordinance, a copy of the zoning map may also be found illustrating the various zoning districts. You should also contact the planning department staff for specific use and location questions at 615-776-6704.  Please note that not all land uses are permitted outright and some are permitted only with conditions which may require approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals and the Planning Commission.  In most cases it is best to contact and set an appointment with the Town Planning staff to discuss your proposed business.
WHERE CAN I OBTAIN A BUSINESS LICENSE.
Nolensville does not currently require a business license but the County that the Town resides in does.  

Contact the office of the Williamson County Clerk, located in Franklin TN. 1320 West Main Street Franklin, TN 37064-3741, (615) 790-5712.
WHAT IS THE APPROVAL PROCESS TO OPEN A BUSINESS IN EXISTING BUILDING.
Contact the planning department at 615-776-6704 to obtain the following information and forms.
  • A Business license is only required from Williamson County. Contact the office of the county clerk, located in Franklin TN. 1320 West Main Street Franklin, TN 37064-3741, (615) 790-5712. 
  • Existing buildings where a business does not require a change of use on the proposed site, a zoning certificate and site plan can usually be approved by Town staff.
  • After final inspections are approved, a Certificate of Occupancy shall be obtained from the Building and Codes Department prior to opening the business.
WHAT IS THE APPROVAL PROCESS TO OPEN A NEW BUSINESS IN A BUILDING TO BE CONSTRUCTED.
New construction or a change of use for an existing building will require a Site Development Plan and approval from the Planning Commission. Check the Planning Department Webpage for Application Instructions. 
WHAT SIGNS ARE PERMITTED ON THE BUILDING AND PROPERTY.
Nolensville Sign Regulations can be found HERE. 
WHAT IS THE APPROVAL PROCESS TO OPEN AND CONDUCT A HOME OCCUPATION.
Operating a business from your home is only permitted with conditions.  These conditions limit the area allowed for the business, signage, traffic, on-site sales and more.  More information can be found in Article 2 of the zoning ordinance on what is allowed.

  • Obtain a form called Home Occupation Application.
  • You will need to prepare and submit this application to the town of Nolensville for review by staff. The information gathered includes items such as the nature of your business and certifies that you can meet all of the conditions required to operate in the area where your home is located.
  • Assuming the applicant has met all conditions and following review and approval by town staff, the Town Planner will approve the application and provide documentation that is needed by the business owner to obtain a business license from the county or state, which ever is applicable.
  • You will need to contact the office of the county clerk, to obtain a business license if applicable. The county clerk is located in Franklin TN at 1320 West Main Street Franklin, TN 37064-3741, (615) 790-5712.