Metro Nashville encourages native plantings through NashvilleNext and Metro Tree Advisory Committee recommendations. Tennessee has no statewide HOA xeriscaping protection, but Metro does not restrict native gardens on private residential property.
Metro Nashville's landscape code (§17.24) requires certain commercial and parking-lot plantings but does not restrict native residential landscapes. The Metro Tree Advisory Committee publishes a Preferred Tree List featuring Tennessee natives (oak, hickory, dogwood, redbud). Harpeth Conservancy and TDEC offer rainscaping and native plant rebates in stormwater-priority basins. Unlike California or Florida, Tennessee does not have statute-level HOA protection for xeriscaping or native plantings, so HOA CC&Rs control within their covenant authority. Cumberland River watershed projects incentivize riparian native plantings. Invasive species (privet, kudzu, tree of heaven, bush honeysuckle) are not mandated for removal but are discouraged in Metro publications.
No Metro penalties for native plant installation on private residential property. HOA covenant disputes handled civilly; Tennessee has no state-level xeriscaping preemption.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no general Metro Code ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Items must sta...
Nashville, TN
Nashville has no specific Metro Code ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must remain on the propert...
Nashville, TN
Nashville does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating residential holiday lighting. General electrical safety, nuisance, and historic district rules apply...
Nashville, TN
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Nashville require Metro Codes permits when they include gas lines, plumbing, electrical work, or structures. Built-in grills wi...
Nashville, TN
Nashville treats smokers and solid-fuel cooking devices under the International Fire Code Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code. Use on combustible balconies ...
Nashville, TN
Nashville follows the International Fire Code (IFC) Section 308 as adopted by Metro Code Title 10. Use of propane grills and open-flame cooking devices on co...
See how Nashville's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.