Zoning regulates what structures and land are used for, where a structure may locate on a lot, and how big that structure can be. It also regulates other elements of site development, such as accessory structures, parking, and landscape. Zoning regulations are divided into zoning districts, so that use, bulk, setback, and development regulations are tailored to the character of each particular zoning district.

The City’s current zoning code does not adequately implement Chattanooga’s goals for the future as established in the recently adopted plans and policies. In addition, many of the zoning district regulations may not relate to the current built environment, creating nonconformities, or may not allow for desired forms of development within the City. An updated zoning code can address these issues, removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles or roadblocks, and providing opportunities for the City to move toward desired patterns of development, further refine the character of the Chattanooga, direct investment to targeted areas, protect key City resources, and create new opportunities for economic development.

Goals for the project include:

• Implement One Chattanooga Strategic Plan, specifically to expand housing choices

• Equitably support all residents

• Provide opportunities for public engagement

• Engage City Council and Planning Commission throughout the process

• Implement adopted Area Plans including Place types, Centers and Corridors

• Support urban development patterns including possible expansion of the Form-based Code District

• Implement zoning that supports transit services and development in specific corridors (TOD)

• Remove outdated language, update definitions and accommodate emerging uses

• Simplify the zoning ordinance with graphic-friendly diagrams, tables, charts and reorganize to be more user-friendly

• Reduce the need for zoning ordinance amendments, individual zoning cases, variances and conditions

• Identify conflicts with other chapters of City Code

• Identify additional zoning tools to address specific community needs, including commercial design overlay zones

• Coordinate with City permitting and enforcement partners, including identifying fiscal and staffing impact of the new zoning ordinance

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