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HB 1720

Zoning - As introduced, authorizes certain counties to adopt a resolution prohibiting a municipality or regional zoning commission from exercising zoning authority outside of the boundaries of the municipality. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 13.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Tim Hicks

Tennessee bill empowers counties to prohibit municipalities from enforcing zoning rules outside their boundaries, shifting land-use authority from cities to counties.

Rec for pass if am by s/c ref. to Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1720

Legislative bill overview

HB 1720 allows certain Tennessee counties to adopt a resolution that would restrict municipalities and regional zoning commissions from exercising zoning authority beyond their official boundaries. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee Code Annotated related to zoning and municipal governance.

Why is this important

Zoning authority currently allows municipalities to regulate land use in areas outside their direct boundaries through extraterritorial jurisdiction—a practice that affects unincorporated areas and neighboring communities. This bill would give counties the power to block such out-of-bounds zoning control, potentially shifting regulatory authority back toward county-level oversight and away from municipal expansion of control.

Potential points of contention

  • Municipal autonomy vs. county control: Municipalities may argue they need extraterritorial zoning to manage growth and maintain comprehensive planning; counties may see it as overreach into their jurisdiction
  • Unincorporated area protection: Rural and unincorporated communities could gain independence from municipal zoning rules, but may lose coordinated regional planning benefits
  • Implementation complexity: The bill's scope across four Tennessee Code sections suggests significant jurisdictional restructuring that could create conflicts or gaps in zoning enforcement and appeals processes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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