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SB 1771

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 Adam Lowe

Bill permits select Tennessee counties to prohibit municipalities from enforcing zoning rules outside their incorporated boundaries, potentially shifting development control to county level.

Enrolled and ready for signatures
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Bill Summary · SB 1771

Legislative bill overview

SB 1771 would allow certain Tennessee counties to adopt resolutions that prevent municipalities or regional zoning commissions from enforcing zoning rules beyond their official boundaries. This creates a mechanism for counties to reassert control over extraterritorial zoning authority that municipalities may currently exercise in unincorporated areas.

Why is this important

Extraterritorial zoning—where cities regulate land outside their borders—is a common source of conflict between municipalities and unincorporated county areas. This bill addresses those tensions by giving counties a tool to restrict such authority, affecting land development, property rights, and local governance relationships. The outcome could shift development patterns and planning control in rapidly growing or sprawling regions.

Potential points of contention

  • Municipal autonomy vs. county control: Cities argue extraterritorial zoning prevents chaotic development near their borders; counties argue it infringes on property rights and local decision-making in unincorporated areas
  • Uncertainty about "certain counties": The bill's language limiting this to "certain counties" is vague—unclear which counties qualify or what triggers eligibility, potentially creating inconsistent standards across the state
  • Impact on regional planning: Restricting coordination between municipalities and counties could fragment land-use planning, particularly in metropolitan areas with interconnected development patterns

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

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