JOHNSON CARPORTS AND GARAGES
Metal Garages in Arlington, TN
Custom Steel Garage Buildings for Arlington Homes, Workshops, Contractors, Trailers, RVs & Shelby County Storage Needs
Johnson Carports and Garages provides custom metal garages, steel workshops, RV covers, trailer storage buildings, contractor storage buildings, work-truck garages, backyard shop buildings, side-by-side storage buildings, small business storage buildings, fleet storage buildings, and commercial steel structures throughout Arlington and surrounding Shelby County communities. Our durable steel garage buildings are designed for vehicle protection, Memphis-area humidity, I-40 access, SR-385 and I-269 travel, Airline Road movement, US-70/79 routes, US-64 connections, suburban lots, rural-edge properties, contractor tools, trailers, mowers, side-by-sides, work trucks, RVs, business equipment, household overflow, and long-term storage performance across the Arlington, Shelby County, and greater Memphis metro region.
Custom Metal Garage Buildings in Arlington, Tennessee
Arlington, Tennessee sits in one of the Memphis metro area’s most practical storage markets for homeowners, contractors, small businesses, commuters, RV owners, trailer owners, suburban property owners, rural-edge property owners, and customers who need dependable enclosed storage without giving up long-term value. With I-40, SR-385, I-269, Airline Road, US-70/79, US-64, Memphis-Arlington Road, Milton Wilson Boulevard, and routes connecting toward Lakeland, Bartlett, Cordova, Eads, Fisherville, Oakland, Gallaway, Millington, and surrounding Shelby County communities, storage needs in Arlington go far beyond simple vehicle parking. Many local customers need dependable enclosed space for trucks, commuter vehicles, trailers, motorcycles, side-by-sides, RVs, tools, work materials, lawn equipment, business inventory, household overflow, and weekend projects.
A custom metal garage in Arlington can serve as a detached vehicle garage, home workshop, contractor storage building, trailer storage structure, RV cover, mower and equipment shelter, motorcycle storage building, side-by-side storage building, work-truck garage, backyard shop, small business storage space, fleet support building, commercial storage building, or multi-purpose steel structure for residential and commercial use. Whether your property is near downtown Arlington, Airline Road, I-40, SR-385, I-269, Memphis-Arlington Road, Milton Wilson Boulevard, Donelson Farms Parkway, Lakeland, Eads, or the broader Shelby County region, a steel garage gives you dependable enclosed space designed around your property.
Johnson Carports and Garages offers fully customizable metal garage buildings with multiple roof styles, color combinations, roll-up garage doors, walk-in doors, windows, insulation options, lean-to additions, vertical roof systems, 12-gauge framing upgrades, 26-gauge panel upgrades, and flexible layouts for residential, contractor, suburban-property, rural-edge property, small business, fleet, and commercial use. From a simple two-car garage to a larger workshop, RV cover, contractor storage building, work-truck garage, trailer storage building, fleet storage building, side-by-side storage building, backyard workshop, or commercial steel storage structure with multiple bays, we help Arlington customers design steel buildings built for long-term value.
Popular Metal Garage Sizes in Arlington, TN
20x20 Metal Garage
A practical two-car garage size for Arlington homeowners who need enclosed parking, motorcycle storage, mower protection, tool storage, household overflow space, side-by-side storage, or a compact workshop near the home.
24x30 Steel Garage
A popular choice for trucks, SUVs, commuter vehicles, utility trailers, ATVs, side-by-sides, lawn equipment, contractor tools, home storage, small business supplies, hobby equipment, and growing household storage needs.
30x40 Workshop Garage
Ideal for mechanics, contractors, hobby builders, small business owners, work-truck owners, homeowners, trailer owners, RV owners, and customers who want vehicle storage plus usable workspace.
40x60 Commercial Garage
Excellent for fleet vehicles, work trucks, large trailers, business inventory, contractor storage, service bays, RV storage, commercial storage, rural-edge property equipment, and larger multi-bay steel garage layouts.
Common Uses for Metal Garages in Arlington
Metal garage buildings in Arlington serve a wide range of residential, contractor, commuter, recreational, small business, fleet-support, suburban-property, rural-edge property, and commercial purposes. With the area shaped by I-40, SR-385, I-269, Airline Road, US-70/79, US-64, Memphis-Arlington Road, neighborhood growth, larger lots on the edge of town, contractor traffic, and movement between Arlington, Lakeland, Bartlett, Cordova, Eads, Fisherville, Oakland, and Millington, steel garages are especially useful for customers who need dependable protection for vehicles, tools, trailers, side-by-sides, equipment, inventory, and workshop projects.
- Residential vehicle garages for cars, trucks, SUVs, commuter vehicles, and family vehicles
- Detached garages for Arlington homes, suburban lots, rural-edge properties, backyard workshop spaces, and Shelby County properties
- Workshop garages for mechanics, woodworking, welding, repairs, hobbies, and weekend projects
- Contractor storage for tools, ladders, trailers, jobsite materials, service equipment, and work vehicles
- Small business storage for inventory, parts, displays, seasonal items, supplies, service equipment, and materials
- Work-truck and fleet storage for local businesses, delivery operations, service companies, and Memphis-area contractors
- ATV, side-by-side, motorcycle, mower, trailer, and utility vehicle protection
- RV, camper, boat, fishing, hunting, camping, and weekend recreation storage
- Landscaping equipment storage for mowers, zero-turns, trimmers, chainsaws, blowers, seasonal tools, and maintenance equipment
- Commercial steel buildings for larger storage, service, fleet support, contractor operations, inventory, and business-use needs
Why Arlington Property Owners Choose Steel Garage Buildings
Arlington is a strong fit for custom metal garages because the area blends suburban neighborhoods, larger rural-edge properties, I-40 access, SR-385 and I-269 travel, Airline Road movement, US-70/79 connections, US-64 access, contractor work, RV ownership, trailer ownership, side-by-side use, small business storage needs, fleet support, and practical year-round storage. A homeowner near town may need a clean detached garage for vehicles and household storage, while a property owner near Lakeland, Eads, Fisherville, Gallaway, Oakland, or the outer roads around Arlington may need a taller steel building for trailers, mowers, side-by-sides, work trucks, service equipment, business inventory, and seasonal supplies.
Steel garage buildings work well in Arlington because they can be customized around the actual use of the property instead of forcing the customer into a standard layout. Customers can choose width, length, height, roof style, roll-up door placement, walk-in doors, windows, lean-to coverage, insulation packages, color combinations, and framing upgrades. That flexibility matters in the Arlington area, where one customer may need a compact garage near a neighborhood home and another may need a taller building for RV storage, contractor tools, work trucks, business supplies, trailers, side-by-sides, fleet vehicles, or commercial use.
Many Arlington customers also choose metal garages because steel is a practical long-term building material. Compared to many traditional wood structures, steel does not rot, warp, or attract termites the same way lumber can. For homeowners, contractors, business owners, commuters, RV owners, outdoor recreation users, service providers, small companies, and Memphis-area property owners that want dependable storage without constant upkeep, a custom metal garage is a strong investment.
Built for Arlington Rain, Humidity, Storms & Memphis-Area Weather
Arlington properties deal with hot muggy summers, cold wet winters, regular rainfall, seasonal storms, humid air, shaded lots, wooded-lot dampness, fog, falling leaves, wind, occasional winter weather, freeze-thaw swings, and changing conditions across neighborhoods, residential driveways, suburban lots, rural-edge properties, contractor yards, commercial sites, and I-40 / Airline Road corridor properties. These conditions can be hard on trucks, trailers, tools, motorcycles, ATVs, RVs, mowers, side-by-sides, work vehicles, stored materials, and business equipment. A metal garage helps protect valuable property from moisture, sun exposure, winter weather, falling debris, and daily wear.
Vertical roof metal garages are especially popular in Arlington and the surrounding Shelby County region because the panel direction helps shed rain, light snow, leaves, and debris more efficiently. This is valuable for residential driveways, shaded lots, larger rural-edge properties, contractor yards, equipment storage sites, commercial lots, fleet storage buildings, and buildings installed near tree lines, open lots, or moisture-prone areas.
For customers who want additional strength, upgraded 12-gauge framing and 26-gauge paneling are available. These upgrades are commonly considered for larger garages, workshop buildings, RV covers, trailer storage buildings, contractor storage buildings, work-truck garages, side-by-side storage buildings, fleet storage buildings, commercial buildings, and exposed Memphis-area installations where long-term durability matters.
Custom Garage Options Available in Arlington, TN
Every Arlington property is different, and your garage should be built around your space, access, storage needs, and long-term plans. A residential lot may need a clean two-car garage with a walk-in door and storage wall, while a contractor, small business owner, RV owner, rural-edge property owner, suburban property owner, commuter-property owner, fleet operator, or commercial property owner may need extra width, taller sidewalls, multiple roll-up doors, lean-to coverage, insulation, and space for trailers, trucks, tools, mowers, side-by-sides, inventory, fleet vehicles, or equipment.
Roof Styles
Choose from regular, boxed-eave, and vertical roof styles. Vertical roof systems are often recommended for Arlington garages because they help rain, light snow, leaves, and Memphis-area debris shed more efficiently.
Doors & Access
Add roll-up garage doors, walk-in doors, windows, side entries, end-wall doors, or multiple bay openings depending on how vehicles, work trucks, tools, trailers, mowers, side-by-sides, RVs, inventory, fleet vehicles, and equipment will move through the building.
Insulation Options
Insulation can help reduce condensation, improve comfort, and make the building more usable for workshops, enclosed storage, hobby spaces, tool rooms, business supplies, stored vehicles, RV gear, side-by-sides, fleet equipment, inventory, and year-round projects.
Frame & Panel Upgrades
Upgrade to heavier framing or thicker paneling for added strength, durability, and long-term confidence in residential, commercial, contractor, suburban, rural-edge, commuter, fleet, or heavy-use storage conditions.
Lean-Tos & Add-Ons
Lean-tos are useful for covered outdoor storage, trailers, equipment, mowers, firewood, motorcycles, tools, work materials, side-by-sides, fleet support items, and anything that needs shade and rain protection.
Color Combinations
Select roof, wall, trim, and wainscot colors to complement your home, workshop, business, suburban property, rural-edge property, equipment shed, commercial lot, fleet building, or existing structures on your Arlington-area property.
Average Metal Garage Pricing in Arlington, TN
Metal garage pricing in Arlington varies based on building width, length, height, roof style, certification requirements, framing gauge, panel gauge, insulation, roll-up doors, walk-in doors, windows, lean-tos, foundation type, and other customization choices. A simple two-car garage will generally cost less than a tall RV garage, insulated workshop, contractor storage building, trailer storage building, side-by-side storage building, work-truck garage, fleet storage building, or large multi-bay commercial steel garage.
The pricing ranges below are general starting estimates only. Final pricing depends on your exact building design, installation location, current manufacturer pricing, selected upgrades, and site-specific requirements.
| Garage Size | Estimated Starting Range | Common Arlington-Area Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20x20 | $8,000 - $12,000+ | Two-car storage, commuter vehicles, motorcycles, tools, mowers, side-by-sides, and household items |
| 24x30 | $12,000 - $18,000+ | Trucks, utility trailers, side-by-sides, contractor tools, lawn equipment, home storage, business supplies, and mixed storage |
| 30x40 | $20,000 - $35,000+ | Workshop space, contractor storage, work-truck storage, trailer storage, RV gear, business inventory, equipment storage, and hobby use |
| 40x60 | $40,000 - $70,000+ | Commercial storage, fleet vehicles, inventory, trailers, RVs, contractor equipment, service vehicles, and large workshop layouts |
Metal Garage Permits in Arlington, TN
If you are planning to install a metal garage in Arlington, Tennessee, you will generally need to begin with the Town of Arlington Planning Department and submit the required building permit application, site plan, and supporting documents for review. Arlington’s planning staff can review the proposed garage location for zoning, setbacks, lot placement, and local requirements, and building permit processing, plan review, permit issuance, and inspections are commonly handled through Develop901 Construction Enforcement for Arlington projects.
A detached metal garage, enclosed steel garage, carport, RV cover, workshop, storage building, equipment shelter, or accessory structure in Arlington may need review for zoning compliance, setbacks, building height, lot coverage, property-line distances, distance from the primary home, engineered drawings, wind and snow load ratings, survey or site plan accuracy, construction valuation, contractor licensing, inspections, utility easements, and separate trade permits. Because Arlington is in Shelby County and uses the regional Develop901 construction enforcement process, property owners should confirm both local town approval and construction-permit processing steps before preparing the building pad.
Arlington and eastern Shelby County properties can include newer subdivisions, larger residential lots, rural-edge properties, estate lots, commercial corridors, and properties near Airline Road, Milton Wilson Boulevard, Highway 70, Highway 385, Brunswick, Lakeland, Bartlett, Lakeland, Gallaway, Eads, and the Fayette County line. Many Arlington properties also include recorded subdivision plats, drainage easements, utility easements, HOA rules, architectural review requirements, private covenants, and drainage or stormwater features. Because of that, a metal garage should not be ordered or installed until the proposed location has been checked against zoning, setbacks, easements, and private restrictions.
Important Arlington Garage Permit Notes
- Start with the Town of Arlington Planning Department. Arlington Planning can help confirm zoning, setbacks, site plan requirements, local approval steps, and whether the proposed metal garage location is acceptable.
- Develop901 handles construction enforcement for Arlington. Develop901 states that Construction Enforcement reviews plans, issues construction permits, and inspects building projects in Arlington and several other Shelby County municipalities.
- A building permit is required for new construction and accessory structures. Arlington’s property information page states that permits are required for all new construction and that residential permits are required for additions and accessory structures.
- A Shelby County building permit application and site plan may be needed. Property owners should confirm the current Arlington submittal process with the Planning Department and Develop901 before applying.
- A survey, plot plan, or site plan is typically needed. Your plan should show property lines, the proposed garage location, existing structures, roads, driveways, easements, utilities, drainage areas, and setback distances.
- Setbacks and height limits should be verified before ordering the garage. Detached garages may need to meet local placement standards, including distance from property lines, the primary home, roads, easements, and neighboring structures.
- Manufacturer or engineered drawings may be required. Metal garages may need drawings showing framing, foundation, anchoring, roof style, wall sections, wind load, snow load, and structural details.
- Permit fees are commonly based on construction value. Be ready to provide the estimated total project cost, including materials, labor, slab or foundation work, anchoring, and related improvements if requested.
- Separate trade permits may apply. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, sewer, water-line, HVAC, driveway, grading, stormwater, or utility work may require additional permits, licensed trades, and separate inspections.
Step 1: Contact Arlington Planning and Confirm Develop901 Submittal Steps
Before ordering a metal garage, pouring concrete, preparing a gravel pad, trenching utilities, extending a driveway, or scheduling installation, contact the Town of Arlington Planning Department to confirm the current permit submittal process. Arlington Planning can help determine whether your proposed garage location meets zoning, setbacks, site plan requirements, accessory-structure rules, and local approval requirements before the package is forwarded or processed through Develop901.
Develop901’s construction enforcement office reviews plans, issues construction permits, and inspects building projects for Arlington. The Develop901 Citizen Portal allows applicants to apply for planning and zoning approvals, engineering permits, construction permits, fire permits, licenses, and other permits, and it also supports inspection scheduling. For Arlington projects, applicants should confirm with the town whether to begin locally at Town Hall, through Develop901, or through a combination of both.
When you call, ask whether the garage requires a Shelby County building permit application, Arlington zoning review, a site plan, survey or plot plan, manufacturer drawings, engineered plans, construction-cost valuation, contractor information, homeowner affidavit, inspection schedule, and separate electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, sewer, water-line, driveway, grading, stormwater, or utility permits.
Arlington Planning Department
Town of Arlington Planning and Development
Phone: 901-867-3449
Main Town Phone: 901-867-2620
Fax: 901-867-2638
Planning can help with zoning, setbacks, local approval, and site plan questions.
Town Hall Location
Town of Arlington
5854 Airline Road
P.O. Box 507
Arlington, TN 38002
Develop901 Construction Enforcement
Develop901 reviews plans, issues construction permits, and inspects building projects in Arlington, Memphis, Germantown, Lakeland, Millington, and unincorporated Shelby County. Use the Develop901 portal or contact Arlington Planning to confirm the correct starting point.
Inspection / Permit Note
Ask Arlington Planning and Develop901 which inspections apply before work begins. A detached metal garage may require footing, foundation, slab, anchoring, framing, rough-in, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and final inspections depending on the structure, foundation type, utilities, and approved plan set.
Step 2: Check Arlington Zoning, Setbacks, Height Limits, and Garage Placement
Before ordering a metal garage, verify where the structure can legally sit on your Arlington property. Detached accessory structures may need to meet zoning district standards, front-yard, side-yard, and rear-yard setbacks, accessory-building placement rules, lot coverage limits, height limits, driveway access requirements, drainage restrictions, easement clearances, and recorded subdivision requirements.
Local guidance for Arlington accessory structures commonly references detached garages being placed behind the primary home and away from property lines, but property owners should confirm the exact setback and placement requirements directly with the Planning Department for their specific parcel. Zoning district, lot size, corner-lot status, road frontage, subdivision plat, drainage easement, utility easement, building height, and existing accessory structures can all affect whether a proposed garage location is acceptable.
Arlington-area properties may also involve HOA rules, architectural review committees, neighborhood covenants, recorded building lines, drainage swales, public utility easements, sewer easements, and private restrictions. These private and recorded restrictions can apply even when the town and Develop901 allow the structure from a permit standpoint, so they should be reviewed before purchasing the building.
Arlington Placement Items to Confirm
- Whether the property is inside the Town of Arlington or under another Shelby County-area jurisdiction.
- Required front, rear, side, and road-facing setbacks for the property’s zoning district.
- Whether the garage must be placed at least a required distance behind the primary home.
- Required distance from the proposed garage to side and rear property lines.
- Whether the garage can be up to two stories tall and whether it must remain below or at the height limit of the primary home.
- Accessory-building size, height, lot coverage, and building footprint limits.
- Distance from the proposed metal garage to the primary home, driveway, road, sidewalks, fences, decks, patios, pools, sheds, carports, retaining walls, and other structures.
- Recorded plat requirements, subdivision notes, building envelopes, drainage easements, utility easements, access easements, sewer easements, stormwater routes, and public utility clearances.
- Water lines, sewer laterals, gas lines, underground electric, communication lines, irrigation lines, and storm drains.
- Drainage flow, grading, low spots, erosion concerns, culverts, swales, stormwater detention areas, and floodplain status.
- HOA rules, architectural review requirements, subdivision covenants, deed restrictions, or neighborhood design standards.
- Whether electrical, plumbing, gas, mechanical, sewer, water-line, HVAC, driveway, grading, or utility work will require separate permits.
Step 3: Prepare a Survey, Plot Plan, or Site Plan for the Metal Garage
A survey, plot plan, or site plan is one of the most important documents for an Arlington metal garage permit. The plan should show the proposed garage footprint, exact dimensions, property lines, existing structures, driveways, easements, utilities, drainage features, and setback distances. This helps Arlington Planning review the garage location and helps Develop901 evaluate the project for building permit processing and inspections.
If you have a survey, recorded plat, closing-document plot plan, subdivision plat, or professionally prepared site plan, use that as the starting point. Mark the exact garage location and include the width, length, sidewall height, overall height, roof style, doors, windows, and intended use. If the garage will include utilities or a slab, include those details as well.
A larger enclosed garage, RV garage, workshop, commercial-style storage building, or garage with electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or gas work may require more detailed plan review than a simple detached storage structure. If the project involves multiple departments, unusual site constraints, or more complex zoning review, contact Arlington Planning before finalizing the design.
Your Arlington Garage Site Plan Should Typically Show:
- Property boundaries and lot dimensions.
- Recorded plat, survey, or plot plan if available.
- Existing home, driveway, sidewalks, decks, patios, pools, sheds, fences, carports, retaining walls, and nearby structures.
- Proposed metal garage footprint, including width, length, roof area, sidewall height, overall height, and maximum height.
- Distance from the garage to front, rear, side, and road-facing property lines.
- Distance from the garage to the primary home and other structures.
- Required setback lines, building envelopes, utility easements, drainage easements, access easements, sewer easements, and stormwater routes.
- Driveway access, parking areas, road frontage, culverts, swales, ditches, and drainage paths.
- Proposed concrete slab, footing, pier system, foundation wall, gravel pad, or anchoring location.
- Any planned electrical, plumbing, gas, mechanical, sewer, water-line, HVAC, grading, stormwater, drainage, or utility work.
- Any HOA, subdivision, deed restriction, architectural review, or private approval note that may affect garage placement, size, color, roof style, or exterior appearance.
Step 4: Gather Building Plans and Engineered Metal Garage Drawings
Metal garages are commonly prefabricated or pre-engineered building systems. For an Arlington metal garage, be prepared to provide construction plans, manufacturer specifications, or engineered drawings if requested by Arlington Planning, Develop901 Construction Enforcement, or another reviewing office. These documents help show how the structure is framed, braced, anchored, and supported.
Manufacturer drawings may show the garage width, length, wall height, roof style, framing system, wall sections, foundation or slab details, anchoring method, wind rating, snow load rating, structural design, and load calculations. These details are especially important for fully enclosed garages, vertical roof systems, taller sidewalls, wide roll-up doors, workshop-style buildings, RV garages, and buildings used for vehicles, trailers, tools, equipment, or small business storage.
If the garage will include electricity, plumbing, HVAC, gas piping, drains, water service, sewer connection, a bathroom, lift equipment, office space, commercial use, or a conditioned workshop area, ask which trade contractors must pull separate permits. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, sewer, water-line, grading, stormwater, and utility work may require separate permits and inspections through Develop901, Shelby County, or the applicable trade authority.
Common Items to Prepare
- Shelby County building permit application or the current permit application required for Arlington projects.
- Town of Arlington Planning Department review information for zoning, setbacks, local approval, and site plan compliance.
- Plot plan, site plan, or property survey showing property lines, easements, existing structures, and the proposed garage location.
- Zoning and setback confirmation from Arlington Planning if the garage location, height, lot coverage, or easement clearance is unclear.
- Garage dimensions and project details including width, length, height, sidewall height, roof style, enclosure package, doors, windows, and intended use.
- Total estimated construction value for permit fee calculation, plan review, and contractor licensing review.
- Building plans or manufacturer specifications for the metal garage.
- Engineered drawings showing framing, roof system, wall sections, bracing, wind rating, snow rating, structural loads, and anchoring if requested.
- Foundation and anchorage details showing slab, footings, piers, anchor bolts, concrete anchors, ground anchors, or another approved anchoring method.
- Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, stormwater, sewer, water-line, HVAC, grading, or utility information if those items apply.
- HOA, restrictive covenant, subdivision, architectural review, or deed restriction information if your property has private approval rules or use restrictions.
- Homeowner, contractor, and trade contractor information, including Tennessee contractor license, general contractor license, Shelby County registration where required, trade licensing, workers’ compensation, and business license information if the project scope requires it.
Step 5: Submit the Application and Pay Permit Fees
Once your application, site plan, engineered drawings, construction value, and contractor information are ready, submit the permit package through the current Arlington and Develop901 process. Arlington’s process may involve submitting the permit application and site plan to the Town of Arlington Planning Department first so the town can review zoning and setbacks before forwarding or coordinating final construction-permit processing through Develop901.
Develop901’s Citizen Portal supports online applications for planning and zoning approvals, engineering permits, construction permits, sign permits, fire permits, licenses, and construction inspections. Because Arlington projects may involve both local town review and Develop901 construction enforcement, confirm the correct order of operations before submitting duplicate applications or paying fees.
Permit fees are commonly based on the project’s estimated construction cost, plan review, permit type, inspections, and any separate trade permits required. For a metal garage, the estimated construction value may include the building package, installation, concrete slab or foundation, anchoring, site preparation, utility work, and related improvements if requested by the reviewing office.
Tennessee contractor licensing rules can also affect the permit. Homeowners may be able to manage work on their own property in limited situations, but if a contractor is hired and the total project value exceeds Tennessee’s licensing threshold, the contractor should hold the proper Tennessee license. For Tennessee, the common contractor licensing threshold is $25,000 or more for the total project cost, including materials and labor. Contractors may also need to be registered or properly recognized for Shelby County/Develop901 permitting before pulling permits. Confirm all licensing and owner-builder requirements before work begins.
Do not begin construction before your permit is issued. This includes pouring concrete, installing footings, setting anchors, erecting the frame, enclosing walls, running utilities, or covering work that may require inspection. Starting early can create additional costs, failed inspections, stop-work issues, easement conflicts, zoning problems, or delays in final approval.
Why Engineered Plans Matter in Arlington
Arlington and eastern Shelby County properties can experience heavy rain, strong thunderstorms, wind exposure, seasonal temperature swings, drainage concerns, utility easements, subdivision restrictions, stormwater routes, and varied soil or site-preparation challenges. Engineered or manufacturer-certified metal garage drawings help document that the structure is designed and anchored correctly for the intended size, roof style, sidewall height, foundation type, and enclosure package. This is especially important for larger garages, fully enclosed structures, vertical roof systems, taller designs, wide roll-up doors, RV garages, workshops, and buildings used for vehicles, trailers, tools, equipment, or small business storage.
Step 6: Schedule Required Inspections and Call 811
After the permit is approved and construction begins, inspections may be required through Develop901 or the applicable construction enforcement process. For a detached metal garage in Arlington, this can include footing, foundation, slab, anchoring, framing, rough-in, structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, and final inspections depending on the foundation type, garage design, utilities, and approved plans.
Inspection timing is important. A footing, foundation, or slab inspection may need to happen before concrete is poured. Framing, anchoring, or rough-in inspections may need to happen before work is enclosed, insulated, or covered. A final inspection may be required before the garage is considered complete or ready for use.
If the garage will have electrical wiring, lighting, outlets, a subpanel, EV charging, HVAC equipment, plumbing, gas, water, sewer, or other utility work, ask Arlington Planning and Develop901 which local, county, or state trade permits are required before work begins. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical, gas, sewer, water-line, and utility work may require separate permits, licensed trades, and separate inspections.
Before digging for footings, trenching, utilities, drainage, stormwater work, sewer work, or site preparation, contact Tennessee 811 so underground utility lines can be marked. This is especially important in Arlington subdivisions where electric, gas, water, sewer, cable, fiber, irrigation, drainage, and utility easements may run through side yards, rear yards, or along property boundaries.
Need Drawings for Your Arlington, TN Metal Garage?
Johnson Carports and Garages can help Arlington and Shelby County property owners plan a custom metal garage and provide available building information or manufacturer drawings for your specific structure. Local zoning approval, Shelby County building permit applications, Develop901 construction permits, setbacks, plot plans, engineered details, contractor documentation, trade permits, inspections, easement checks, and final code decisions should always be verified with the Town of Arlington Planning Department, Develop901, Tennessee 811, or the appropriate local/state office before purchasing, preparing, or installing your building.
Call 844-867-6385 Request a QuoteOfficial Arlington Permit Resources
For the most accurate and up-to-date permit information, contact the Town of Arlington, Develop901, Shelby County, or the State of Tennessee directly and review the official resources below:
- Town of Arlington Planning and Development
- Town of Arlington Development & Permit Process
- Town of Arlington Home Improvement & Property Info
- Town of Arlington Handouts & Applications
- Develop901 Construction Enforcement
- Develop901 Citizen Access Permit Portal
- Develop901 Fee Information
- Tennessee Residential Permits
- Tennessee Residential Permit FAQs
- Tennessee Electrical Permits
- Tennessee 811
- Tennessee Contractor License Information
Permit requirements can change, and each Arlington or Shelby County property may have different zoning, setback, easement, road frontage, drainage, road access, stormwater, utility, sewer, floodplain, electrical, plumbing, gas, mechanical, foundation, wind load, snow load, HOA, deed restriction, subdivision covenant, architectural review, slope, trade permit, contractor licensing, workers’ compensation, homeowner affidavit, and site conditions. This section is for general planning information only and should not be treated as legal, engineering, zoning, or permitting advice. Always confirm current requirements with the Town of Arlington Planning Department, Develop901, Shelby County, the State of Tennessee, Tennessee 811, or the appropriate local office before purchasing, preparing, or installing a metal garage.
Site Preparation for Metal Garages in Arlington
Proper site preparation is one of the most important steps before installing a metal garage in Arlington. Properties throughout the Arlington area can include neighborhood driveways, suburban lots, rural-edge properties, fenced yards, commercial sites, contractor yards, shaded lots, mature tree cover, drainage concerns, narrow access points, and limited space around the building site. A level, accessible, and properly drained installation area helps protect the structure and allows installation crews to work more efficiently.
Customers should make sure the building site is clear of vehicles, brush, debris, low branches, fencing materials, stored equipment, trailers, pallets, and other obstructions before installation. Residential, contractor, commercial, wooded-lot, I-40 corridor, SR-385 corridor, I-269 corridor, Airline Road access, US-70/79 access, US-64 access, and commuter-property sites may also require extra planning for driveway access, turning space, overhead clearance, delivery routes, slope management, and enough room around the building footprint for anchoring and safe installation.
Gravel pads are commonly used for basic storage buildings, carports, equipment shelters, and open structures, while concrete slabs are often preferred for enclosed garages, workshops, commercial buildings, trailer storage, work-truck storage, fleet storage, RV storage, and long-term vehicle storage. The best foundation depends on how the garage will be used, the size of the building, and the conditions of the property.
Concrete Foundations for Steel Garages
Concrete slabs are one of the most popular foundation choices for enclosed metal garages in Arlington because they provide a strong, clean, and stable surface for vehicles, workbenches, toolboxes, storage racks, lifts, motorcycles, trailers, mowers, side-by-sides, RVs, work trucks, fleet vehicles, and heavy equipment. Customers using their garage as a workshop, mechanic space, contractor storage building, trailer storage building, equipment shelter, work-truck garage, RV storage building, commercial storage building, fleet support building, or small business structure often choose concrete for long-term strength and everyday usability.
A concrete foundation can also improve anchoring strength, interior cleanliness, moisture control, and the overall finished feel of the building. For customers storing valuable vehicles, business tools, mowers, equipment, motorcycles, outdoor gear, trailers, side-by-sides, inventory, fleet vehicles, or workshop machinery, a slab can make the garage more practical and easier to maintain.
Learn more here: Concrete Requirements for Steel Buildings
Metal Garage Delivery & Installation Around Arlington, TN
Johnson Carports and Garages serves customers throughout Arlington and nearby communities across Shelby County, Fayette County, Tipton County, Haywood County, and the surrounding Memphis metro region. Whether your property is near downtown Arlington, Airline Road, I-40, SR-385, I-269, US-70/79, Memphis-Arlington Road, Donelson Farms Parkway, Lakeland, Eads, a residential neighborhood, a contractor yard, a rural-edge property, a suburban lot, or a commercial site, we can help you plan a steel garage building that fits your space, storage needs, access conditions, and long-term goals.
Common nearby service areas include Lakeland, Bartlett, Cordova, Eads, Fisherville, Oakland, Gallaway, Millington, Memphis, and surrounding Shelby County and Memphis-area communities. Customers in these areas often use metal garages for vehicle protection, contractor tools, RV storage, trailer storage, work vehicles, mowers, ATVs, side-by-sides, business inventory, fleet support, and home workshop space.
If you are comparing metal garages in Arlington, TN or looking for a steel garage building near Shelby County, I-40, SR-385, I-269, Airline Road, Lakeland, Bartlett, Eads, or the Arlington and greater Memphis metro region, Johnson Carports and Garages can help you design a building with the right size, layout, roof style, doors, colors, insulation, and strength upgrades.
Steel Garages vs. Wood Garages in Arlington
Many Arlington property owners compare metal garages against traditional wood garages, sheds, pole barns, and stick-built structures before making a decision. Wood buildings can be useful, but they often require more maintenance over time due to painting, staining, rot prevention, pest control, moisture exposure, and seasonal expansion or contraction. Steel garage buildings are designed for durability, consistency, and lower long-term upkeep.
A metal garage can be especially valuable in the Arlington area because local properties experience humidity, seasonal rain, hot summers, cold wet winters, shaded lots, mature tree cover, I-40 corridor weather, and changing Memphis-area conditions. Steel framing and metal panels are not vulnerable to termites, wood rot, or warping the same way lumber can be, making steel a practical choice for long-term storage and workspace needs.
Learn more here: Steel Building vs Wooden Building
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Garages in Arlington, TN
Are metal garages a good choice for Arlington, Tennessee?
Yes. Metal garages are a strong choice for Arlington property owners because they provide durable vehicle protection, equipment storage, workshop space, contractor storage, trailer storage, RV storage, work-truck storage, side-by-side storage, fleet support, business storage, backyard workshop space, and residential or commercial storage while resisting many common problems associated with wood buildings, including rot, termites, and warping.
What roof style is best for a metal garage in Arlington?
A vertical roof system is often recommended for Arlington and the surrounding Shelby County region because it helps rain, leaves, light snow, and debris shed more efficiently. This is especially useful for larger garages, shaded properties, rural-edge properties, contractor yards, commercial lots, fleet storage buildings, and equipment storage buildings.
Can I customize a metal garage for contractor, trailer, RV, fleet, side-by-side, work-truck, small business, or workshop use?
Yes. Arlington customers can customize garage size, height, roll-up doors, walk-in doors, windows, insulation, lean-tos, colors, and framing upgrades to create a practical contractor storage space, trailer storage building, RV cover, side-by-side storage building, fleet support building, work-truck garage, small business storage building, workshop, mechanic garage, hobby building, or equipment shelter.
Do you offer delivery and installation in Arlington?
Yes. Delivery and installation are available for metal garages in Arlington and surrounding areas including Lakeland, Bartlett, Cordova, Eads, Fisherville, Oakland, Gallaway, Millington, and nearby Memphis-area communities.
Can metal garages be insulated?
Yes. Insulation options are available for customers who want improved comfort, reduced condensation, and better usability for workshops, storage areas, hobby spaces, tools, business supplies, stored vehicles, RV gear, side-by-sides, fleet equipment, inventory, and enclosed garages.
What size metal garage should I choose?
The best size depends on what you plan to store. A 20x20 garage may work for two vehicles, while a 24x30 or 30x40 building provides more room for trucks, tools, lawn equipment, ATVs, trailers, motorcycles, mowers, side-by-sides, business inventory, and workspace. Larger 40x60 buildings are often used for commercial use, fleet vehicles, inventory, trailers, RVs, work trucks, contractor equipment, or multi-bay garage layouts.
Get a Custom Metal Garage in Arlington, TN
From residential garages and workshops to RV storage, trailer storage, contractor buildings, work-truck garages, side-by-side storage, fleet support, business storage, small business storage, backyard workshops, and commercial steel garages, Johnson Carports and Garages provides durable steel building solutions for Arlington and surrounding Shelby County.
Helpful Steel Building Resources
Learn more about steel building foundations, framing strength, panel thickness, garage layouts, and the differences between carports, garages, and traditional wood structures. These helpful resources are designed to help customers make informed decisions before purchasing a custom metal garage or steel building.
Garage Photo Gallery
Browse real metal garage photos, custom layouts, workshops, color combinations, roll-up door options, and enclosed steel building designs for inspiration.
View Garage GalleryConcrete Requirements
Learn about recommended concrete slab sizes, thickness requirements, anchoring preparation, and site prep recommendations for metal garages and steel buildings.
View Concrete GuideSteel vs Wood Buildings
Compare metal buildings and traditional wood structures for durability, maintenance, longevity, fire resistance, and long-term value.
Compare Building TypesCarport vs Garage
Explore the differences between open carports and enclosed garages including security, storage space, customization options, and cost considerations.
Learn the Differences12 Gauge vs 14 Gauge
Understand the differences between 12 gauge and 14 gauge framing as well as 26 gauge and 29 gauge steel panels for strength, durability, and certification requirements.
Compare Gauge OptionsLooking for custom metal garages, carports, workshops, and commercial steel buildings? Visit our main website to explore building options, pricing, customization upgrades, and service areas throughout the Southeast.
Visit Johnson Carports and GaragesMemphis & Southwest Tennessee Metal Garage Service Areas
Johnson Carports and Garages provides custom metal garages throughout Memphis, Shelby County, Tipton County, Fayette County, and Southwest Tennessee. This region includes city lots, suburban homes, rural acreage, small farms, contractor properties, business locations, and growing outer-ring communities where enclosed steel storage is useful for vehicles, trailers, lawn equipment, tools, work trucks, boats, and shop space.
From Memphis and Bartlett to Collierville, Arlington, Millington, Oakland, Somerville, Atoka, Munford, Covington, and Piperton, our metal garage buildings can be designed around your space, storage needs, access points, roof style, door layout, color preferences, and upgrade options. This cluster connects the Southwest Tennessee pages together while giving customers more local service-area paths to explore.












