Murfreesboro, TN Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing body
- Planning Commission
- State authority
- T.C.A. § 6-54-133
- Covers
- Nonresidential, multifamily exteriors
- Appeal window
- 45 days to City Council
Summary
The Murfreesboro Planning Commission is designated the City's design review commission under Code § 22-15, with authority to adopt exterior appearance guidelines for nonresidential and multifamily development, including guidelines limited to specific areas such as downtown.
As authorized by T.C.A. Sec. 6-54-133, the Murfreesboro Planning Commission is designated the City's design review commission, with the authority to develop and adopt general guidelines for the exterior appearance of nonresidential property, multiple family residential property, and any entrance to a nonresidential development within the City of Murfreesboro. (A)The Planning Commission may develop and adopt exterior appearance guidelines that are applicable throughout the City as well as exterior appearance guidelines that are applicable only to limited, specified zones or areas within the City.
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
Under T.C.A. § 6-54-133, Murfreesboro Code § 22-15 designates the Planning Commission as the City's design review commission. The Commission may adopt guidelines governing the exterior appearance of nonresidential property, multifamily residential property, and development entrances: either citywide or limited to specified zones, such as the Central Business District. Guidelines must weigh factors including historic character, materials suited to Middle Tennessee's climate, and civic identity. A property owner may appeal a design guideline decision to the City Council within 45 days by written notice to the City Manager and Planning Director, submitting drawings and other support for the requested relief.
Violations & Fines
Noncompliant exterior designs can be denied at plan review. Owners may appeal to City Council within 45 days of the Planning Director's decision; cost alone is not grounds for a waiver unless the Council finds it excessive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Murfreesboro have design guidelines for downtown buildings?
Can a property owner appeal a design guideline requirement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Murfreesboro
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