Franklin, TN Right to Farm: Agricultural Zoning Protection (2026)
Key Facts
- District
- AG--Agricultural District
- Minimum lot size
- 15 acres
- Agricultural structures
- Not otherwise regulated
- Effective date
- January 13, 2026
Summary
Franklin's AG--Agricultural District requires 15-acre minimum lots and exempts agricultural structures from the city's normal accessory-structure standards.
The AG district is intended to provide for farming and agricultural uses, single-family residential on significant acreage, and open space to maintain the character of rural areas.
3.2.2 Use Regulations
A. Principal uses shall comply with Section 5.1, Principal Uses.
B. Accessory uses and structures, other than agricultural structures, shall comply with Section 5.2, Accessory Uses and Structures. Agricultural structures are customary in this district and not otherwise regulated.
C. Temporary uses and structures shall comply with Section 5.3, Temporary Uses and Structures.
Full Breakdown
The 2026 Franklin Zoning Ordinance carves out a dedicated AG--Agricultural District 'to provide for farming and agricultural uses, single-family residential on significant acreage, and open space to maintain the character of rural areas.' Unlike every other district, the AG district exempts agricultural structures from Franklin's accessory-use standards outright: they are 'customary in this district and not otherwise regulated,' and are also a permitted principal building type alongside houses. The district carries a 15-acre minimum lot size, far larger than any residential district in the city, insulating working farms from residential-density pressure.
Violations & Fines
Structures and uses outside the AG district's permitted list (house, agricultural structures, permitted accessory/temporary uses) require a use, building, or zoning permit from Franklin's Building and Neighborhood Services / Planning and Sustainability departments before construction; unpermitted development is subject to standard zoning enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are farm buildings in Franklin's AG district regulated like other accessory structures?
How big must a lot be to qualify for Franklin's AG district?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Franklin
Compare Franklin to another location·View the Tennessee right to farm overview
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