Murfreesboro, TN Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)
Key Facts
- Max bonus
- 30% of base density
- Eligible districts
- RM-12 and RM-16 only
- Minimum project size
- 1 acre, 5 units
- Director response time
- 14 days
- Appeal path
- Board of Zoning Appeals
Summary
Multifamily developments in Murfreesboro's RM-12 and RM-16 districts can earn up to a 30% density bonus by providing pools, sport courts, tot lots, or similar amenities.
(B) Density bonus. If the site plan for a multiple-family residential development includes an amenity described in this section and the Planning Director finds that the proposed amenity meets the requirements of this article including this section and Section 7, then the applicant shall be entitled to a density bonus as specified in this section, provided that the total of all such density bonuses may not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the maximum density permitted in the district. (1) No density bonus shall be permitted for multiple family developments of less than one acre or less than five units. (2) Minimum open space and formal open space as required by Section 15(B)(2) shall not be included in calculations for a density bonus. Only open space that exceeds the minimums required by Section 15(B)(2) may be considered for a density bonus.
(C) Authority. The Planning Director shall have the authority to approve or reject density bonuses as provided in this section.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Section 14A(B) lets the Planning Director award a density bonus to multiple-family projects that provide qualifying amenities, a swimming pool, tennis or basketball courts, ballfields, a tot lot, preserved natural open space, or a clubhouse, capped at a combined 30% increase over the district's maximum density. Projects under one acre or fewer than five units don't qualify, and open space already required to meet minimum standards can't be double-counted toward the bonus. Applicants submit a site plan and written calculation with their site plan application; the Director must respond in writing within fourteen days, and a denial can be appealed to the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Violations & Fines
A density bonus request tied to an amenity that doesn't meet Section 14A's standards must be disapproved by the Planning Director, who issues written reasons within fourteen days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which zoning districts qualify for Murfreesboro's density bonus?
What's the maximum density increase a project can get?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Murfreesboro
Compare Murfreesboro to another location·View the Tennessee zoning overlays & bonuses overview
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