Tennessee State Law on Rezoning Land for Business

Zoning laws map out what kind of building can go where.

Tennessee defines zoning as the process of dividing an area into districts for the purpose of regulating building types and the use of buildings and property. When a business seeks to change existing zoning laws it must apply for a variance.

Zoning Definitions

Zoning definitions simplify, clarify and establish the precise meaning of zoning laws in Tennessee. They provide clarity for the board of appeals, so businesses seeking rezoning should check the current definitions to see how they effect their case. The city planner will have the most recent definitions.

Board of Zoning Appeals

Applications for rezoning must go before the board of zoning appeals in the appropriate county. The Tennessee General Assembly expressly granted each county the right to create its own zoning regulations and to create an appeals board.

Procedure

The owner of the property must seek rezoning under Tennessee law. Seek out the county's zoning ordinances and arrange a meeting with the county planning office before approaching the board. Some businesses hire real estate attorneys.

References

• Tennessee Planning Commissioners Training Handbook: A Closer Look at Zoning
• Tennessee: Zoning Appeals by County Legislative Body under Tenn. Code Ann. § 13-7-108
• Business: Zoning Regulations