Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-14-707: Application for permit.

(a) (1) Any person planning to operate a food service establishment shall first submit an application for a permit on forms provided by the commissioner. The application shall be completed and submitted to the commissioner with the proper permit fee.

(2) Prior to the approval of the application for a permit, the commissioner shall inspect the proposed facility to determine if the person applying for the permit is in compliance with the requirements of this part and with applicable rules and regulations. The commissioner shall issue a permit to the applicant if the inspection reveals that the facility is in compliance with such requirements.

(b) Applications for renewal of permits for existing food service establishments will be issued to the operators prior to July 1 of each year or as the commissioner may provide by rule. When completed applications and the proper permit fees are returned to the commissioner, the commissioner shall issue new permits to applicants.