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Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Knoxville, TN (2026)

3 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for Knoxville, Tennessee, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Specific Plans Overview

Recode Knoxville, adopted in 2020, replaced the 1962 zoning code with form-based standards, neighborhood districts, and clearer mixed-use rules grounded in the Knoxville-Knox County Comprehensive Plan.

Recode Knoxville Zoning Code Overview

Some Restrictions

Density Bonus Law

Recode Knoxville offers limited density and parking incentives for projects that include income-restricted units, but Tennessee preempts mandatory inclusionary zoning, so all bonuses remain voluntary.

Affordable Housing Density Bonuses Under Recode

Few Restrictions

Hillside Overlay Rules

Knoxville hillside and ridgetop protection rules limit grading, retaining walls, and tree loss on slopes greater than fifteen percent, protecting scenic East Tennessee terrain and reducing landslide risk.

Hillside and Ridgetop Protection in Knoxville

Some Restrictions