Tennessee Senate Bill SB1771

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/26
• Engrossed: 4/21/26
• Enrolled: 4/30/26
• Passed: 5/22/26
• Chaptered: 5/27/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 13, relative to zoning outside of municipal boundaries.

Impact

The primary impact of SB1771 is the modification of zoning authority, particularly in counties with populations under 341,500. Upon the adoption of a resolution by the county legislative body, any pre-existing zoning rules that extend beyond municipal boundaries would become void and unenforceable. The bill provides a legal framework for counties to manage their own zoning regulations independently, which could lead to significant changes in land development and planning practices over time.

Summary

Senate Bill 1771 is designed to amend the Tennessee Code with respect to zoning regulations applicable outside municipal boundaries. The bill prohibits municipalities or regional planning commissions from adopting zoning plans or ordinances that exercise jurisdiction over development, infrastructure, or land use in areas that are not within their boundaries. This legislative measure aims to provide counties with greater autonomy regarding land use decisions by limiting the influence of municipalities, particularly in rural or less populated areas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1771 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that it empowers local counties to make decisions that are best suited to their community's needs and prevents potential overreach by municipalities. This perspective emphasizes local control and the importance of tailoring regulations to specific local contexts. However, opponents may express concern that the bill could lead to inconsistent land use and development regulations across counties, potentially worsening coordination and planning challenges between municipalities and surrounding areas.

Contention

A notable point of contention arises from the bill's emphasis on decentralizing zoning authority. Critics worry that restricting municipal planning commissions may undermine comprehensive regional planning efforts, particularly in areas with complex development challenges. The bill also raises questions about how it may affect interlocal agreements on development projects that involve both county and municipal jurisdictions, as the legislation allows for such arrangements but does not mandate or encourage them. This aspect could lead to a patchwork of development standards, affecting long-term sustainability and growth strategies in transitioning areas.