Elevator / Lift Annual Operating Permit and Periodic Inspections: Nashville restaurant guide
TN Dept. of Labor & Workforce Development — Elevator Unit
What it is
Every elevator, escalator, dumbwaiter or lift in the building must have a state operating permit and is inspected by the Elevator Unit twice a year. A new or altered unit needs an acceptance inspection before it's used.
When a restaurant needs it
If your space includes or relies on an elevator, wheelchair lift or dumbwaiter — typically in multi-story and mixed-use buildings or when serving a basement level.
How to apply
The landlord or elevator contractor requests the acceptance inspection for new/altered equipment and keeps the operating permit current; confirm with the landlord who holds it.
Documents you’ll need
- Equipment type and location
- Installer/maintenance contractor
- Acceptance Inspection Request (new or altered units)
Good to know
Check the certificate posted in the cab before you sign a lease; an expired permit or a lift that won't pass is the landlord's problem to fix, but it can hold up your U&O.
Official source
TN Elevator Unit · TN Labor help center — elevator inspection and permit fees
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.