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 created districts including residential neighborhood, single-family, mixed-use neighborhood, and commercial corridor categories that map intensity to existing patterns. Lot, height, and setback standards live in tables organized by district. The code introduced administrative review for many design decisions, expanded accessory dwelling unit allowances, and aligned with the Knoxville-Knox County Comprehensive Plan and One Year Plan. Knoxville-Knox County Planning staffs the review under Recode procedures. Most variances and special use approvals route through the Board of Zoning Appeals.
Building outside permitted uses, exceeding height or coverage tables, or skipping required reviews can result in stop-work orders, civil fines, and removal of unauthorized improvements.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville has no general City Code ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, garden statues, religious displays, or yard decorations on private residential prope...
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville has no City Code ordinance specifically regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must stay within the pr...
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville has no dedicated City Code ordinance regulating the timing, brightness, or quantity of residential holiday light displays. General electrical safet...
Knoxville, TN
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Knoxville require Plans Review & Inspections permits when they include gas lines, plumbing, electrical work, or structures. Nat...
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville treats wood smokers, pellet grills, and other solid-fuel cooking equipment under the 2024 International Fire Code as adopted in City Code Chapter 1...
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville has adopted the 2024 International Fire Code under City Code Chapter 11, Article II (Sections 11-21 to 11-22), effective January 2025. IFC Section ...
See how Knoxville's specific plans overview rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.