The current Knox County Comprehensive Plan map was formally approved in April 2024. At that time, the property listed as "Fort Sumter Road" near the intersection of Fort Sumter and McCloud Road, was clearly designated as Rural under the adopted plan.
Public records show that this property was purchased in July 2024. Two years later, in June/early July 2026, the owning LLC filed a zoning change request "Case 8-D-26-PA" seeking a density of three homes per acre, which is inconsistent with the Rural designation in place at the time of purchase and at the time of filing.
Shortly afterward, when the latest draft of the UDO map was released in July 2026, this same property appeared as a "Rural Hub", a new category shown in bright pink on the map. This change occurred while the zoning variance hearing was delayed at the request of the applicant.
The sequence of events raises important questions about timing, transparency, and whether certain parties may have had early knowledge of upcoming map changes that would benefit this specific rezoning request. Or even advanced notice to allow Fort Sumter LLC to purchase the property BEFORE the zoning changed to enable them to buy the property at reduced rates. Residents deserve clarity on how who knew about the potential zoning changes and their relation to the people who bought the property.
Deborah , 37920
August 17, 2026
On behalf of Myself
I own several properties in Knox County and don't appreciate the back door approach to changing people's zoning. You do this to AG, you can do it to anyone. I am submitting a request to halt further implementation of a draft on rezoning our agriculture until the consensus of land owners have a say in it. NOT DEVELOPERS!!
Kevin, 37920
August 17, 2026
I am aware rezoning has been temporarily halted for the next admin's input, but make no mistake, we DO NOT approve of changing Ag land to residential. I will not be an "exemption" that can be rescinded the moment I transfer property to my kids or refinance my mortgage. The public should be made aware that this proposal was rumored to have been pushed by D.R. Horton builders for the express purpose of eliminating any further required permitting/land use change/ public comment before constructing a subdivision... Much of the Ag zoning was mysteriously defaulted to RR, which allows 2 homes per acre. We had to opt out, rather than opt in—complete backdoor sneaky politics. Certainly not serving the people.
My questions: Who was the first person to make this proposal? Why did this begin in the first place? Who got paid to push this through? Why are you bent on eliminating farms in Knox County?
You can bet that my neighbors and I will be at every future planning commission meeting. The commission is on notice.
Stacy, 37932
August 13, 2026
This is ridiculous! Who elected these people, is theft not a crime anymore?
Dawn, 37922
August 13, 2026
I am strongly against the rezoning being led by Amy Brooks. Leave the farm land as it is. High density housing is not what Tennessee is about.
Marty & Rachel , 37721
August 12, 2026
We are blessed own a farm currently zoned Agricultural and it should remain so. We purchased it so we could get horses and donkeys but also because we did not want to see it turn residential and later possibly into another subdivision with a million houses. Little did we know our government is trying to do that without our permission. You DO NOT have our consent to change our zoning, as the legal owner of the property. It’s sad when the public finds out more from facebook than from their own government officials. Remember the reasons why we all love to live in America and in East TN. Stop taking away our farmlands!!!
Elizabeth, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Self
This is absolutely criminal. You should be ashamed at this land grab. I hope there is a class action lawsuit against all involved.
Barb, 37849
August 12, 2026
I am heartbroken to relocate to a County that would use this type of underhanded method to remove/reduce farmer’s rights on their land, especially without a mailed, written notice. I moved an entire family here to live in a rural area. They may wish to use the land as a small farm in the future and I will fight to the end to maintain the right to do that for my children & grandchildren. Each and every registered voter 8n my family is watching the Count6 Commissioners action on the matter very closely.
Toby, 37721
August 12, 2026
While I appreciate the farmers fighting to maintain AG zoning they're really not the main issue. Zoning laws aren't meant to protect the rights of the property owner. They're meant to protect the rights of the NEIGHBORS of the property owner. That's why all this talk of "you can still farm!!!" are moot. I'm not worried about being able to farm my 1 acre. I'm worried about my neighbor selling their 10+ acres to a developer and destroying the landscape of our neighborhood. We bought AG zoned land. SO DID THEY. If they want to change that then they should have to go through the process of getting it rezoned including public comment and review. The only reason they (and the developers pushing this UDO) would want to do so without the process is because they intend on abusing the system and destroying the rural character of our community.
Wendy , 37920
August 12, 2026
The proposed automatic rezoning rules are shameful and deeply concerning. The lack of transparency is especially troubling—I only learned about this last week through social media!
What is the purpose of these changes? Are they truly in the best interest of the community, or are they simply making things easier for developers and those with real estate interests?
The people deserve a voice in decisions that affect our neighborhoods and property. Please don't take that voice away. We need transparency, accountability, and a planning commission that represents the people—not special interests.
Julia, 37912
August 12, 2026
I don't appreciate the lack of communication about this, especially given the overall initiative apparently started in 2021. I also don't appreciate or support any initiative that restricts the rights of private property owners or their successors.
Questions I have -
1) As an affected property owner, why have I never received written notice of the proposed changes or opt-in form? I saw that there have been "public" meetings related to this, but I had no knowledge of them. Like many others, I only found out about this at all through social media. I was surprised to find my own property affected within the rezoning map.
2) What were the criteria for selection of the committee members and how do they stand to benefit from the updates? Their names are published, but if their cv's are public they aren't linked.
3) What is the cost vs expected benefit to taxpayers and how were these measured?
David, 37923
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Knoxville Residents
This entire thing is completely underhanded and self serving for one group. Real estate agents and developers.
I believe there is a disconnect between the commission and what the people actually want. What I have been reading keeps referencing being transparent in the change proposals. If the changes are as significant as they appear why would the county not send a notification letter to all the landowners giving them a heads up. Do not continue down this path. We do not need or want this.
Brittney, 37938
August 12, 2026
Stop taking our farmland. Quit doing everything behind closed doors and meetings when people have to work so they can’t be there to appeal this overtaking. We don’t want what Nashville has! This farm has been in my family for generations and I will stand and fight for it this is our land you should have no part in telling me what I can and can not do with it!!
Toby, 37721
August 12, 2026
This kind of development is going to drive quality people out of Knox county and replace them with houses that HOPEFULLY get filled. When the market collapsed it will devastate property prices due to a glut of housing supply.
Maximum density for rural residential should be a maximum of 1 house per acre. NO EXCEPTIONS. That is a reasonable standard that would allow for development without changing the character of the county.
People should have to opt in to the change not opt out.
Data centers do nothing to enhance our community and should come with major restrictions and tax burdens.
Margaret, 37920
August 12, 2026
My family has owned acreage in Knox county since 1802. It is beyond comprehension the county would change it from ag to residential without ANY direct contact with the property owners. If I wasn’t on Facebook, I wouldn’t know about it at all. This is just morally wrong.
William , 37871
August 12, 2026
On behalf of William Welch
This whole process is wrong, and snakes of corruption and deception.
How can the land that previously owners had to request to have zoning changed all of a sudden be automatically changed and then to keep it as it is, if your land is large enough by the new definition, to remain as Agricultural. Not only has the zoning changed but also the size of what is considered to be a mini farm has increased 5 fold. It's disgraceful.
This whole zoning action should be stopped and scrapped.
Laura, 37806
August 12, 2026
We are against the passing of the Unified Developed Ordinance. If the intent of the change is to offer property owners the ability to choose for themselves which of the three zones best reflects their property's use and the level of preservation they desire, then each owner should get to chose which level of zoning they want. I should be able to zone all my property agriculture residential, there should not be a blanket zone of 1 house per acre. We understand the need for affordable housing, but there are better ways to accomplish that. Thank you.
Nathan, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Knox County Farmers and Residents
I oppose the rezoning of Knox County and taking away land from farmers and giving to developers.
Susan, 37918
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Susan Wolfe
I am against the UDO unilaterally rezoning all agricultural zoned land. This does not appear to be in the interest of the people of Knox County and only in the interest of real estate developers and the government. I do not understand why the public was not allowed more than 30 days notice on a subject that has far reaching and long terms implications. No No No!
Andrea, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Myself
I am writing to oppose the proposed rezoning effort to change Agriculture land to Rural Residential. I advocate for limiting development to a rate that aligns with community desires. I think there is a complete disconnect between elected officials and the majority of Knox County residents who are very concerned about the rate of development. I think developers should be held to a much higher standard than they currently are regarding water quality protection, land integrity, and minimizing adverse impacts to adjacent properties.
I advocate for greater protection for water and natural resources, more protection of open space and agricultural land, increased expectations for development to protect natural resources and the existing rural feel, increased incentives for infill development, increased application of smart growth principles to minimize sprawl, and better communication about policy changes. We need to keep outside interests and developers in line so that we can maintain the quality of life we enjoy in Knox County now and for generations to come. I also disapprove of relaxing the public comment requirements and terms related to development projects. Finally, I emailed the Advance Knox info email address several days ago asking the simple question of why are these zoning changes needed. I have yet to receive a response. It is not clear to me why these changes are needed.
Carol, 37938
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Samuel LeMay 6102 Thomas Weaver Rd
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use, which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance.
Our property is a little over 2 acres and does not meet the new 2.5 acre minimum. This land was bought for the express purpose of having a food forest, which is in keeping with its agricultural zoning.
Mallory, 37938
August 12, 2026
I urge this board to extend the deadline for the opt in form. I was made aware of this rezoning via social media last week. The rezoning information is difficult to understand in a short period of time. This rezoning affects farmers and they deserve to have a better understanding of the impacts for their land, businesses, and family. It unacceptable that communication was not mailed to all home addresses that would have rezoning potential.
I recommend additional in person workshops or meetings in which residents can ask more questions. Thank you for listening and consideration of all comments listed on this page.
Jessica, 37932
August 12, 2026
The fact that the Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission is made up almost entirely of developers and realtors (who have strong a financial interest in building and selling as many properties in the area as humanly possible, with no regard for the negative impact on our communities) should tell you everything you need to know about the true intentions of this group of self-serving, conscienceless crooks. You might as well call the “Advance Knox” initiative what it really is - “CASH Advance to Knox Developers.”
I will commend you all on one thing, though - you did successfully unite the entire county against a worthy cause. We all smell the same rat.
C. Frog, 37920
August 12, 2026
What we need in Knox County is MORE farms and MORE rural areas to be PRESERVED and PROTECTED. Changing zoning without notifying farmers and residents is NOT OK, especially when most of the deciding board is only interested in development. As a Knox County resident, I strongly oppose the advancement of this type of zoning change.
Ryan, 37918
August 12, 2026
This is an extremely disturbing process. I haven't heard anything about this which I can approve of. This is clearly a power grab in direct contradiction of what the voters have said they want in elections over and over. I expect this is being done precisely so elected politicians can pretend they have nothing to do with anything. This is a betrayal of the voters and standard rule of law. If you want to hand power over to the unelected, then what's the point in pretending elected officials mean anything? It's all as clean as the city mayor going around proper procedures to appoint a police chief who is now suspended for abuse of power and inappropriate behavior. This whole thing is a disgrace.
Heather, 37918
August 12, 2026
Knox County residents support our local farm lands and farmers. They should not have to opt out of rezoning that will directly affect them, especially given the way in which this rezoning process has been happening. Give the public and the farmers full disclosure of what is happening, what is being proposed, and allow them to opt in, if they choose. We do not want to lose our local farm lands and access to agriculture. Public meetings where locals can vocalize any concerns, ask questions, and get above-board, straight forward answers needs to be reinstated.
Holly, 37938
August 12, 2026
My concern is for our farmers. MOST of them do not know how to fill out an Opt Out/In Form much less figure this mess out. It is a shame that you all have NO CONSIDERATION for Farmers or anyone representing our Farmers on your board. Also, the small window of submitting the Opt In/Out form without any type of notification to the land owners should be illegal. Protect our farms and our land.
Lauren, 37932
August 12, 2026
The way this has all gone about is extremely wrong. Zoning changes of this magnitude need to be fully transparent and clearly communicated. They also must have public input. It is my sincerest hope that the planning commission listens to Knox County residents and their input before any permanent changes are made.
Denise, 37922
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Farmington/Ebenezer
We want allowances for urban hobby farms, growing our own food, and opportunities to raise small chickens/ eggs. All is currently allowed under our current county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
BackRoomKnox, 37923
August 12, 2026
Data center regulations were in the last draft. Now they are gone, whether on purpose or by mistake, I don't know.
The new version sets the buffer to homes at just 100 feet. That is not enough. Go stand 100 feet from the Watt Road area data center and you will still feel it. Then walk to the rock easement. It is an easy walk. Bring ear protection.
You have to feel the heat. You have to feel the power hum. You have to feel the ground shake, even from 300 feet away. Only then can you write a rule that actually protects people.
And this is one of the smaller centers. It does not even use water, gas, or turbines. Those are worse.
A 100 foot buffer tells me nobody who wrote this rule has stood 300 feet from one of these buildings, let alone 100. The buffer needs to be at least 1000 feet from any home, and only in a heavy industrial area if over 15 MW.
Thank you for your work on this. Now it's time for the public to help hold this process accountable.
KATHY, 37721
August 12, 2026
On behalf of 013 138
I moved back to Knox County with plans to retire here and create a small homestead. I specifically searched for and purchased 2.5 acres that was zoned agricultural because I wanted property where I could grow my own food, raise chickens and goats, and build a true homesteading lifestyle, eventually even keeping miniature farm animals for a small petting zoo for parties and photography.
Agricultural zoning wasn't an accident or something I discovered after buying the property. I chose this property because of it. I made my plans and invested my money based on the zoning and the rights that came with the property when I purchased it, specifically to support homesteading.
I do not believe it is fair to take those agricultural rights away simply because my property is 2.5 acres instead of 5 acres.
Small acreage does not mean homesteading isn't possible. You don't need five acres to have a garden, fruit trees, chickens, a few goats, or miniature farm animals. Small homesteads are part of what makes Knox County special, and people who intentionally purchased agriculturally zoned property for homesteading should not suddenly lose those rights because their property falls below an arbitrary acreage requirement.
I moved back to Knox County because I wanted this homesteading way of life. Please protect existing agricultural zoning and the rights of small-acreage property owners who purchased their land specifically for homesteading and agricultural use.
Ben , 37931
August 12, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use.
Heather, 37932
August 12, 2026
On behalf of self
Preserve agricultural use rights for smaller acreage parcels! My property is currently zoned Agricultural (2.41 acres) and is proposed to become RR under the draft 2. I want to raise a concern about small parcels like mine losing agricultural freedoms. Under current A zoning, my property can be used for livestock and general agricultural purposes without the acreage minimums that the draft AR and RP districts require. Since my 2.41 acre lot cannot qualify for either opt in district, I will be placed in RR by default, and I have not been able to find clear detail in the draft on what livestock rights RR actually preserves. Our family raises goats, chickens and other small livestock and we have a sizeable garden. Are we going to have to change our lifestyle to fit policies we didn't even get to vote on?? What about my children?? They are the 6th generation that have lived on this property. When they inherit it (cause I'm not selling), how will this affect them??
Amelia, 37919
August 12, 2026
This rezoning plan is counter to what our officials should be working to preserve: the beauty of Knox County’s agricultural lands and the right of farmers to farm and citizens to provide input on how our communities are developed. The underhanded maneuvering to disenfranchise landowners and the public in general by “sneaking” this plan in and making dissent as complicated as possible is alarming and unethical
Sam , 37923
August 12, 2026
There are major problems with the proposed UDO. The two major ones are:
1) Reduced flexibility for owners. The limitations on a lot of the outlying areas, many of which are zoned Ag, now to be labeled rural residential, will in the future severely limit the operation of hobby farms, self-sustainment, and small-scale commercial enterprises. These plots should not be rezoned, and the promises of grandfathering do not provide adequate protection. Landowners should be free to expand their operations or rebuild in the case of disaster, not be forced to give up what is rightfully theirs.
2) Limiting community input. The removal of comment/hearing periods for future development is a grave error, and heavily weights the future plans towards developers at the expense of homeowners and small parcel landowners. Especially with the growing nature of the area, we should be careful limiting oversight and reducing the ability of those impacted by large developments to provide their input. When new developments have the potential to cause negative impacts on others' property, they should be able to seek to stop the developments before they begin rather than fighting for compensation after the fact with the scales tipped against their favor.
Please do not implement this poor plan for the area. The future can be bright, but not if we sell out to special interests at the expense of the many individuals and families who call this home.
I respectfully request that Knox County extend the public review period for the proposed UDO and provide significantly more time between draft revisions.
These documents will affect the development rights, use and value of thousands of privately owned properties. The individual articles are lengthy, technical and interconnected, making meaningful professional and public review difficult within the current timeframe.
Knox County appropriately requires notice, public review and appeal periods when private citizens request land-use changes. A complete rewrite of the County's development regulations deserves at least the same level of careful review.
Please extend the comment period, provide additional in-person and virtual meetings, publish clear redlines between drafts, and allow adequate time for the public to understand and comment on each revision before this ordinance advances toward adoption.
Having carte blanche approval without review (on any property much less farm land) is detriment for all citizens of Knox county. I would hope that any of these large developments would have to prove infrastructure is in place or plans are there to accommodate these developments.
Instead of pushing development on greenfield sites why are we not focusing on redevelopment of existing? Mainly because infrastructure is already there for the most part.
When farmland gets developed it very rarely goes back. Not saying it’s not necessary for growth but growth needs to be regulated. Just drive around Knoxville and you can see that
Brandon, 37938
August 12, 2026
This is wrong. Our farm land should not automatically be changed to a zoning that allows up to 2 houses per acre. All this going to do is benefit the developers and destroy what is left our rural communities.
Marcee, 37938
August 12, 2026
Whether or not my residence is zoned Agricultural and is affected, the new automatic zoning proposal is unjust to those whose property will be affected without their input or approval. In addition, the non- conforming status should stay permanently with the land, not just the current owner! Why would/should a change in ownership automatically affect land usage without a review and citizen approval?
It seems the planning commission can't deal/ doesn't want to deal with land owners who vote on these issues. Why - $$$$. Who's on this commission? Realtors and developers who have an interest in the money making arena. I wonder how many are having multi family units built right next to/on top of their homes? Land owners should have the right to opt in, not out of, "your" proposed zoning changes. Why and how are you not hearing what land owners are telling you? Again, $$$$$.
Nicole, 37921
August 12, 2026
As a Knox County resident, I strongly oppose the proposed zoning changes that convert Ag to RR. Farmland and open spaces should remain protected by DEFAULT, not with a requirement that property owners opt in for preservation. And especially not without formal notice. It is unacceptable that the board/commission tried to slide this by our farming community, hopefully without noticing before the also unacceptable deadline.
While growth is inevitable, growth without limits is not a plan. Communities such as Karns and Powell have already experienced the consequences of rapid residential development, including massively increased traffic, strained infrastructure, overcrowded schools, and the loss of rural character. Residents bear the impact of this every day. Knox County does not need more sprawling high-density subdivisions at the expense of productive farmland. Existing ag land is not vacant land waiting to be developed. It is an important part of our county's identity, economy, and future. Once it is gone, it is gone forever.
Neighbors need MORE say at commission meetings, not less say with automatic approval for the highest allowed density. Neighbors have a right to be concerned about commercial zoning out of fear of what might be built. Sorry, Amy Brooks. This is my community, and it's pretty full already.
Protect our farmers. Save our farmland. Reverse the opt out and make it opt in.
Terry, 37721
August 12, 2026
This whole advance Knox seems self-serving to the committee. Most of them have interest in land development which causes major conflict of interest. The group needs to be evaluated and involve the courts in halting their actions! Nobody should have to file a form to keep their land useable and maintain their way of life. This is government at its worst
Jennifer , 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Myself
Reverse the opt out and make it opt in. Leave the farm land as is. PLEASE slow down development and update infrastructure.
Robin, 37938
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Self
Rezoning behind citizens back, it's not only deceitful, but something communists do! So, are you all that big of snowflakes that you're afraid of Townhall meetings with the citizens of this county??? I served in the military and took an oath to protect this country from ALL enemies, foreign and DOMESTIC! What you are doing behind our backs, and so deceitfully, makes you an enemy of land and home owners!! We moved out to Halls because it was quiet and not crowded. What you are doing is ruining our town.
Rachel, 37849
August 12, 2026
I attended several meetings during the planning phase for the Growth Plan. What stood out to me is that there were zero ordinary residents that spoke in favor of the proposed growth plan, only real estate agents and developers spoke in favor of the recommendations.
I came across a Facebook post on August 3rd that mentioned the proposed zoning changes in Draft 2. I own AGRICULTURAL property that was originally purchased by my Grandparents in 1953, and am a life-long Knox County resident. I received NO DIRECT NOTIFICATION that my property use was in jeopardy. I raise livestock. I have chickens, goats, sheep, and a garden. I've watched as development has pushed out farmers in my area and ruined the rural character of Powell. It seems that the goal is to push out ALL FARMS.
An appointed group intends to strip ALL property owners of the right to keep their current zoning, offering only "legal nonconformity" as an option to continue to use their property as they have. Legal nonconformity is no protection. If the property changes ownership, the nonconforming use goes with it. This decision won't necessarily affect my current personal use, but will certainly affect my children when they inherit the property.
My property is currently zoned Agricultural and it should remain so. You DO NOT have my consent to change my zoning, as the legal owner of the property. You didn't bother to ask me and you plan to take away the publics ability to speak out. The answer is NO!
D, 37849
August 12, 2026
The proposed automatic new zoning rules are shameful. The planning commission is unfortunately made up of people that have an interest in making money in real estate. The commission should be dissolved. Please do not take away the voice of the people.
Mary, 37918
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Self and family
You want feedback? Here's mine as the 3rd generation in east Knox County on a family farm, in an ag zone:
No one should have to "opt-in" to keep their zoning the same. Period. If we currently live in an agricultural zone , then we shouldn't have to fill out an application to the county to stay that way. Every single knox county citizen is at the mercy of advance knox and the county's acceptance. We purchased property in an ag zone, and we expect it to stay that way!
This absolutely opens the doors from more development. It makes it easier for builders to put as many houses on a piece of land as they want without any pushback from commission, because the rules of the new zone say they can. So much government overreach lately.
Abolish this. No data centers, no rezoning the entire county, no overdevelopment....keep agriculture on the county seal and leave knox county citizens alone! Let the developers APPLY to change the zoning of the land they want, and keep allowing citizens to continue to discuss land use. Knox County does NOT belong to the developers. It belongs to the men and women who live here, own property here and grow families, farms and businesses here!
I vehemently oppose this broad rezoning.
Darin, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Maroni
This plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who moved to the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
We keep hearing that “protections are already in place” because PR zoning supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. Great—until you read the fine print allowing “clusters of homes” when terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” is developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram in here?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road: 161 houses, most on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots—smaller than lots I could build on inside Knoxville. We moved here expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision dropped in by a housing-development cannon.
We’re not against reasonable growth. We’re against destroying the rural character that brought people here in the first place.
WE SHOULD NOT LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT HAVING A VOICE IN THE PROCESS.
Albert, 37721
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Me
Simple comment, people move to this county for what it has to offer and to escape the crowded feeling they moved away from. Don’t try to recreate that crowded congested feeling here, don’t sell the people out to developers who care nothing about the beauty East Tennessee has to offer or to try to make a quick buck. Thank you
Ps. Re think those data centers and pay attention to the negative impact they can cause to the environment.
Mark, 37920
August 12, 2026
I am writing to formally express my strong objection to the recent zoning effort and the manner in which these changes have been developed and advanced. I am particularly concerned that these changes appear to have been undertaken without adequate notification to affected property owners. Changes to zoning can substantially affect a property owner's ability to use and develop their property. I am also concerned about the composition and apparent priorities of the committee responsible for developing these plans. The process gives the appearance that the interests of developers and increased development have received greater consideration than the interests of existing property owners and the quality of life in our community. Whether or not that was the committee's intent, the lack of transparency creates a legitimate concern about potential conflicts of interest and whether the process has been sufficiently balanced. I believe responsible growth should take into account more than development potential and economic interests. It should also consider existing residents, property rights, neighborhood character, infrastructure, traffic, public services, and the overall quality of life in the community. I respectfully request that the zoning changes be reconsidered.
George, 37938
August 12, 2026
I’ll address the commenters here. Not the rat finks who are behind this sneaky back room deal in hopes that it flies under the radar without the communities knowledge.
I’ve seen people on here asking if they can maintain the right to continue their hobby farms. Are you really ASKING for PERMISSION to farm YOUR OWN LAND? Then is it in fact YOUR land?
If it is in fact our land, then we should not have to get on our knees and plead to do what we want on it. How can a person rezone your land if that land is in fact, yours? They can do it because you don’t own anything. That’s why they can do with it what they want.
Disagree? Try NOT PAYING your PROPERTY TAX and watch where that ownership goes. It won’t be yours anymore.
We’re all still under some illusion that we actually have ownership of our properties.
We’re under what now seems to be the illusion that power still belongs to the people. “They work for us!” DO THEY? Last I checked, the boss doesn’t have to approach the people that work for him for permission regarding anything.
They know this. They don’t give a hill of beans about this comment section.
Just like the DATA CENTERS, nobody wants them. With or WITHOUT your cooperation, they are getting what they want.
We the people are DIVIDED and we the people are FALLING.
Mentalities need MAJOR adjustment if we’re to make it through to the other side of the these upcoming tribulations. This is only the beginning.
Tiffany, 37914
August 12, 2026
It seems almost as if the government is trying to do away with farms that have been here for generations. The government wouldn’t do that though right? It may not happen overnight and that’s what they want to use to placate everyone. Down the line we will have more subdivisions and less of the farms that have provided food for us. This new zoning is taking away the livelihood of locals and the ability to feed the community. The government loves us though and wouldn’t want us crammed together like sardines with no way to feed or provide for ourselves, right?
Phillip, 37721
August 12, 2026
Leave the Ag Zoning alone. Let people opt in to the Rural Preservation, not the other way around. This all feels like a way to sneak in more development.
Darin , 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Our family
This plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who chose to live in the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
And please don’t tell us that “protections are already in place” because the current PR zoning designation supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. That sounds great—until you read the fine print. The current designation (or whatever shiny new version replaces it) still gives developers the ability to build “clusters of homes” when the terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” has become developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram onto this property?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road. It is currently being developed for 161 houses, with the majority sitting on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots. Let that sink in: lots smaller than what I can build on inside the city of Knoxville. We moved to the country expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision that looks like it was dropped here by a housing-development cannon.
We are not opposed to reasonable growth. We are opposed to destroying the very rural character that made people want to live here in the first place.
WE DO NOT WANT TO LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT AT LEAST HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOICE OUR OPINIONS.
If decisions are going to fundamentally change our community, then the people who actually live here deserve a seat at the table—not a front-row seat while the bulldozers do the talking.
Casie , 37921
August 12, 2026
On behalf of The farmers
This seems like a ridiculous thing to happen. We need our farmers and we need open land. That’s what Tennessee is all about. Please quit building houses. Please quit letting builders build where there is not space or traffic patterns to help us all get around safely. It makes me sad to even write this because it’s ridiculous behavior that seems to happening more and more. So sad. Just stop this please.
Robert , Knoxville tn
August 12, 2026
This is wrong, and everyone sitting on that board knows it. This is being rammed through in the most dishonest, crooked manner that I have ever seen, all at the expense of the farmers. It’s nothing more than a land grab for the developers that line the pockets of the local politicians. Every one of you should be ashamed of yourselves.
Darin , 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of My family
This plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who chose to live in the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
And please don’t tell us that “protections are already in place” because the current PR zoning designation supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. That sounds great—until you read the fine print. The current designation (or whatever shiny new version replaces it) still gives developers the ability to build “clusters of homes” when the terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” has become developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram onto this property?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road. It is currently being developed for 161 houses, with the majority sitting on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots. Let that sink in: lots smaller than what I can build on inside the city of Knoxville. We moved to the country expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision that looks like it was dropped here by a housing-development cannon.
We are not opposed to reasonable growth. We are opposed to destroying the very rural character that made people want to live here in the first place.
WE DO NOT WANT TO LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT AT LEAST HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOICE OUR OPINIONS.
If decisions are going to fundamentally change our community, then the people who actually live here deserve a seat at the table—not a front-row seat while the bulldozers do the talking.
Anna, 37806
August 12, 2026
How can they pass such without informing the people it will effect. Farming isn't just a life style. This is how people get by. Some people hobby farm to help with the expensive for their family's and for large Farms its not only their jog but their family legacy. Their are family farms in the county for 100s of years and those family's take great pride in carrying it on how could it just be taken away like this so you can have condos or whatever.
David M , 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of David M Roberts
This commissions plan to do away with agricultural zoning and tweeting land owners to fill out a form and mail it in is ridiculous. Did you notify them of your intent before hand? Also, allowing developers to bypass the normal density approval process is repulsive. This commission seems to match in step with developers rather than resident property owners. This whole process smells of corruption and conflicts of interest. You all should be ashamed for such actions.
Susan, 37924
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Myself
I believe automatically rezoning all land currently zoned agricultural to a new Rural Residential zone is a grave error and this position should be reversed before the UDO is approved. Knox County needs more housing but residential areas and working farms are not the best neighbors, due to then noises and odors that often come from farms. Also this process hasn’t been the most transparent and to force people to opt in to an agricultural zoning when they may not even be aware this is happening is overreach at its worst.
Deanna, 37924 and 37721
August 12, 2026
These properties have been in my family and my late husband’s family for more than 100 years.
This attempt to take away my voice in how MY property is used now and in the future is nothing but Communism! The people who made this decision should be required to go and live under the Putin regime for a year to experience what they are pushing on Knox County citizens.
I want my 37721 property to remain Agricultural, no change, and people who suck up to politicians to stay out of my business.
Gena, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Me
We do not want a want Knoxville to become Califonia or Florida! Or anywhere else that is what made us so unique: we had farm land, city and county all in one! Please stop making us something we don’t want to feed your own pockets and cost people that have lived here their whole lives pay for it. Money is the root of all evil.
George, 37721
August 12, 2026
Removing residents’ right to have a meaningful say in development decisions affecting their neighborhoods and communities is fundamentally unfair. Greater public input, along with clearer and more timely notification of proposed changes, should have been provided before these decisions were finalized and implemented.
Maranda, 37934
August 12, 2026
It seems fairly evident to the majority of the community that the way this is and has been handled is OFF. The vast majority of Knoxville residents not only feel that the overdevelopment of our area has run rampant, but when you add this on top of everything else, it’s pretty clear that there is a bias on the planning commission, and you would have to blind to not see where the bias is leaning.
There should NEVER be a planning commission that is ruled by the developers, real estate and/or mortgage brokers (or FUNDED by them, either), since they are the ones who obviously have a vested interest in forcing these developments on us. There’s not even a question of conflict of interest, it is 1000% there in this case.
Farm land is VITAL, not only to our area, but to our country as a whole. Trying to slide in new regulations without anyone knowing doesn’t just give the look of impropriety, it OVERFLOWS with it. You have more than enough feedback from the community to see that there are some major issues with what you’re proposing, and I for one would love to see our local officials actually start LISTENING to what the community wants….not just listening to those that are lining their pockets.
H, 1776
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Treading
This deal that is being drawn up without the full knowledge of the public is beyond unbelievable.
The overreach happening by the rat finks in this country is nauseating!
Being sneaky usually indicates you’re doing something WRONG and dishonorable.
And to think our very own would make deals that can and will later harm families and their inherited farmland. THEIR…LAND.
It is not for you to decide what we should be zoned under.
WHERE IS YOUR HONOR?!
Dom, 37914
August 12, 2026
It feels as once again as long as our great elite class get their pockets padded and their ego stroked it doesn’t matter what the little peasants of the community think.
As long as their family’s can escape the slop they dump on us what do they care.
Another day another disconnect between citizen and superior.
Marc, 37914
August 12, 2026
On behalf of East Knox County
I understand the situation. The influx of new citizens requires change. What I do not understand is the total disregard of the property owners. To arbitrarily change zoning and land use standards on someone else's property is wrong. And there is no other way to view it. Agricultural property is an important facet of East Knox County and is foundational to who we are. This can not pass. I have yet to find anyone who agrees with it other than those who are involved in the process or have zero vested interest in this part of our County.
I spent 20 years of my career in city/County government and I understand the processes. I also know first hand how influence from developers fuels this type of thing. It is wrong. I have always been in defense of the planning commission and our city and county government. But not with this. It is wrong and this mess must stop. Now.
Bob, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of South Doyle Neighborhood Association, Inc.
At the August 4, 2026 monthly meeting of the South Doyle Neighborhood Association, members voted unanimously to adopt the following resolution:
"We feel the UDO Draft 2 zoning map showing zero Agricultural zoning and only two small areas of Rural Preservation zoning is contrary to the whole intent of Advance Knox to provide for proper planning, avoidance of sprawl, and preservation of Knox County's scenic quality. We ask that the Draft 1 zoning map be returned to. "
Bob Thompson, Secretary, South Doyle Neighborhood Association, Inc.
Patti, 37922
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Self
A required "Opt-in" appears to be a calculated move on behalf of the county to rezone rural farmland to residential for developer benefit.
Vicki, 37721
August 11, 2026
On behalf of Myself
This should not be happening! These new zoning changes are a bunch of baloney! The second draft should not have been handled this way! I found out about it on FACEBOOK! (Not from my county leaders). It’s a shame that our leaders in Knox County have slipped this by the people they are supposed to be working for. The ONLY people this helps are land developers and realtors and others in that industry! If our elected leaders allow this to go through, they should be voted out of office! This is such a shame that farmers have been treated this way when we depend on them for so much!
Heather, 37922
August 11, 2026
I am formally registering my objection to the Advance Knox rezoning process due to significant deficiencies in public notice and procedural fairness. Knox County has undertaken a parcel-level rezoning without providing individualized notice to affected owners. No mailed letters were sent, and many residents only learned of these changes through social media. The absence of parcel-specific notification raises serious concerns about whether residents were afforded a meaningful opportunity to be heard, a core requirement of procedural due process under TN law and the 14th Amendment. The TSC has emphasized that notice must be reasonably calculated to inform affected parties and provide a genuine opportunity for participation. A countywide rezoning that materially alters permitted uses, density, and development standards, exceeds what most residents would reasonably expect to be handled through generalized public postings alone.
The County's reliance on website updates & social media announcements does not meet the spirit of TN's public-participation requirements, nor does it reflect best practices for transparent land-use governance. The lack of individualized notice is especially concerning given that Advance Knox proposes to replace lon-standing zoning categories with entirely new districts, materially affecting property rights without direct communication to those impacted.
Kenneth, 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of myself
I do not like and and do not believe this should be done. I have submitted the opt in form because I have to preserve my rights.
Steven, 37922
August 11, 2026
On behalf of self
I understand that our neighborhood (Wood Lake Acres) is at risk of losing our Agricultural (A) zoning. In no way do I want to lose the freedom that comes with the Agricultural zoning that exists today, and existed when all of us in Wood Lake Acres purchased our property.
Please let me know what I may do to prevent this from happening.
I'm ready to fight this with my time, talent, and treasure.
Sincerest Regards, Steven Floyd [redacted] [redacted] Sandpiper Lane (Wood Lake Acres Subdivision) Knoxville, TN 37922
Ricky, 37917
August 11, 2026
On behalf of All knoxville farmers
Leave knoxville and knox county alone,we dont want to be a big city and we want local produce from our farmers.stop makin money for your selves and leave knoxville the way it is.if you want big city life move somewhere else.
Keith, 37922
August 11, 2026
I am currently 1 full acre with residence and Agricultural (A) zoning. I am opposed to the reclassification as Rural Residential and feel it would be detrimental to my property value in the marketplace. OPPOSE!
Patti, 37922
August 11, 2026
On behalf of Self
I think it is shameful to require property owners to submit an opt-in request to potentially contest the rural residential designation. This appears disingenuous and ethically questionable.
The fact that the following language has been posted on the opt-in form, reads punitively.
“If you do not submit an opt-in request, any legal use under the current zoning would be allowed to legally continue”. All the while assuming owners are notified of the pending change and their opt-in request is approved? Could it be decision makers are simply hoping owners don’t submit or requests fall through the cracks? It looks that way.
Maria, 37938
August 11, 2026
We own two pieces of adjacent land in Halls: one at 1 acre and one at 2.67 acres. We want to remain autonomous in farming (chickens, ducks and turkeys) along with multiple spaces for organic vegetables and fruit. Anything that would jeopardize that is an absolute “no” for our family! I hope residents’ voices will be heard.
Renee, 37871
August 11, 2026
Rezoning all agricultural land to residential agriculture is the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard lately, and Knox county is constantly making ridiculous zoning changes. Keeping it a secret is disgusting. Not every piece of land needs to be destroyed by developers. DO BETTER.
Randall, 37920
August 11, 2026
How has this planning been going on for five years without any notice to the residents? We just found out about this because a neighbor came to our home and let us know. Every single resident that this could affect should have been notified by mail. It sure feels like they were trying to sneak this through, have a default to move us from AG and not even inform us.
One of our neighborhood roads (Artella) has not been paved in well over 60 years. All we get is patches. Let’s take care of what we already have before throwing in new houses and apartments everywhere.
Gay, 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of Morton
The lack of transparency concerning these zoning changes is a huge problem. I became aware of this on social media. This method of doing business is not available to eveyrone and is very difficult and discriminatory for older land owner. I request that the peropd of time available for public comments be extended. Has MPC has dropped the ball and become too "friendly" with developers. It certianly appears that way. In my part of the county the roads and schools haved not been upgraded to handle the traffic. I have other concerns regarding the changes in regulation regarding data centers.
I am extremely disappointed in the mayor and elected representatives. This is clearly government overreach.
Brian , 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of Lucky Dog Farm
The lack of transparency is a huge concern. I learned about this last week, on social media! Secondly, what is the purpose of such changes? Easier for developers? I appreciate the county needing to grow, honestly, Knox county is a great place to live. However, the MPC has dropped the ball and become too "friendly" with developers. Developments are approved but often the roads do not get updated to handle the traffic. The MPC has more Knoxville City representation than Knox County representation, which leads to poor planning and decision making for county residents.
Most important, I need more information (and easier to find) on the different zonings. In order to make an informed decision (forced choice), I need to know the differences. I am extremely disappointed in the mayor and elected representatives. This process needed more public attention. None of the farmers or rural land owners asked for this. This is clearly government overreach.
Gary, 37938
August 11, 2026
This is wrong! Everything about it. Do not touch our farmlands or tell us what to do with our own land!
Keela, 37938
August 11, 2026
A very strong NO from me. This is so shady and a disgusting over-reach from our “government”. Our land should not have be re-zoned without a say from the actual land owners! No one got any notification about this at all! No wonder there is zero trust left in our elected officials! We need to protect our farmers and their farmlands for generations to come.
Mary, 37931
August 11, 2026
Please protect farmland in and around Knoxville. The rampant overdevelopment that's been allowed to occur for the past several years must end, as it's made life stressful, the landscape hideous, and traffic dangerous. It's also displaced countless numbers of native species, all in the name of incentivizing people from all over the world, let alone the country, to move here. If Knoxville's goal is to make life horrible, then they're definitely succeeding.
Kristen, 37920
August 11, 2026
I am against the proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) changes including the shift of agricultural land to the Rural Residential classification, and the way this is being gone about is very shady.
David, 37920
August 11, 2026
I believe there is a disconnect between what is being published and what is being done. What I have been reading keeps referencing being transparent in the change proposals. Even though this has been in the works for a while the first I heard of it was through a neighbors post on Facebook last week. If the changes are as significant as they appear why would the county not send a notification letter to all the landowners giving then a heads up and a list of upcoming meetings where this would be discussed.
I have a farm that has been in our family since 1823 and raise livestock on it. From what I have read automatically changing it to RR zoning would give up some legal protections Tennessee provides AG properties. It is still murky and the details seem to be changing under the "proposal". One source says AG requires 15 acres, another says 5 and in one place it talked about 1 acre lots. The details need to be defined and published.
Katie, 37922
August 11, 2026
Please keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Gwyn, 37920
August 11, 2026
Whoa, Knox county you need to slow down. I am opposed to the redistricting. I don't think you are being very responsible with the infrastructures to support all the residential units that are being built. The city floods every time it's rains.
We are losing our ability to farm and support ourselves while you are only looking at a couple of years, what happens in the next 20 years when all of our food is being shipped to China and other foreign countries we'll be forced to eat the lab created foods. It's the same as giving weapons and ammunition to other countries that are eager to destroy us but taking away our rights to protect ourselves.
And then you want to build AI centers that take away our water and electricity. WTH people! Enough is enough!!! I'm opposed to any redistricting until you can fix what is broken already.
Mary, 37922
August 11, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Romany, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Khloe, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family, host a local farm stands, and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Farmington Subdivision (and other Knoxville neighborhoods) is currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance - please keep it that way!!
Matt, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. Moreover, add language that explicitly protects these practices/hobbies so that they can't be arbitrarily stripped in the future through a different interpretation.
Kelly, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Aubrey, 37932
August 10, 2026
The re-zoning should be an opt IN instead of opt OUT situation. In general, I find it completely unnecessary. Who benefits from this change? Because farmers certainly will not benefit from a more restrictive land use. Just scrap this entire bill.
Drue, 37921
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for neighborhoods currently R1 planned to change to N1
Michala, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family, collect rain water, & raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision!
Ashley, 37921
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for neighborhoods currently R1 planned to change to N1
Vanessa, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Farmington
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. Our lots are large enough to have multiple gardens and raise chickens, etc. and still be beautiful.
Jamie, 37922
August 10, 2026
Allowing family gardens hobby gardening and small hobby farming such as backyard chickens needs to be allowed in any rezoning that imapacts our residential land. Thank you!
Blaine, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Andrew, waheguru99@yahoo.com
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Wynn
The Knoxville Urban Wilderness is roughly 1,000 acres assembled over two decades by the City, County, Ijams, TWRA, and Legacy Parks. Those protected properties form a ring, and the interior is unincorporated private land that Draft Map 2 converts almost entirely to Rural Residential. That interior is the connective tissue of the system. The protected parcels are not contiguous, so movement between them crosses this land, and a break at one point costs the function of everything that depended on passing through. Subdividing it would not reduce the acreage the public holds, only what that acreage does, which is the return on twenty years of public investment. Much of the area is designated Rural Conservation in the adopted Comprehensive Plan, which requires 50 to 70 percent of a site be conserved as open space; Rural Residential has no such mechanism and cannot implement it. Nothing on Draft Map 2 shows the protected ring, so that context is absent from the data. I ask that Planning evaluate this pocket as a unit and consider a conservation overlay governing site disturbance, clearing, stream buffers, and lighting, leaving every owner's uses and density intact.
Daniel, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Self
As an owner of over a dozen egg laying female chickens (hens) in our .33 acre lot these proposals cause me serious concern. I have been a proud owner of property the Farmington Subdivision since 2012 and greatly appreciate the freedoms allowed in our neighborhood as multiple property owners have their own verdant and large backyard vegetable gardens and flocks of chickens and bee hives. This proposal does not provide for any of these agricultural rights for those with less than one acre. It greatly upsets me that efforts like these reduce the in fee simple ownership and property rights of average American families. How long before the WWII encouraged back and front yard "Victory Garden" becomes an illegal or impermissible choice for property owners? I am disappointed and concerned that these proposals are going to make more consumers and fewer producers of agricultural products.
Florentina, 37922
August 10, 2026
Please, keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Florence, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision where I live and own my home.
Ruth, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Farmington Neighborhood Ebenezer Rd
We want allowances for urban hobby farms, growing our own food, and opportunities to raise small chickens/ eggs. All is currently allowed under our current county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Jaime, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Jaime Dailey, Farmington rezoning
I live in the Farmington subdivision and concerned with rezoning. I have a large lot, often grow a garden, and am concerned the new zoning with prohibit that when there is no reason for Knox county to limit our ability to grow more than a flower bed for landscaping.
Brandi, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. All citizens should have the right to grow food on their land and keep bacyard poultry. No one wants lab grown products. We are awake and want more control over our own food supply. KEEP ZOING THE SAME
Stephanie, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Farmington neighborhood
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Rachel, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of 1912 Penwood dr-Farmington
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision First we had two people claiming to be president and vice president of a "mandatory HOA" trying to tell us what to do. They took our money and got offended when we asked questions about where the money went, why they weren't holding meetings or voting for officers. After I talked to the mayor and found out it was all being done illegally and they changed themselves to a voluntary HOA we still will loose our ability to grow food from personal gardens or have our chickens? Please, NO! We dont want this new rezoning!!!
Shalina, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Jenniffer, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of My self
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Lisa, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non-commercial use which are currently allowed under the current zoning for the Farmington Subdivision
Laura, 37922
August 10, 2026
Please do not rezone the Farmington subdivision off of Ebenezer. Many of us have large lots, vegetable gardens, and small backyard chicken coops. It is completely unfair to just change the zone we are in when many of us bought property here specifically for the large lots and less restrictions, and cannot afford to relocate under the current interest rates. We should not have to give up our backyard hobbies because someone else decided we should be re-zoned.
Kyle, 37914
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Dorothy Kyle Nahrebne (legal name)
I do not agree with the change from agriculture to agricultural living in my zip code. Residents did not request to be moved to agricultural living which could limit property size for next generation owners. Many of us have or plan to have farms here. I own 11 acres. We ask you reconsider zoning this area between Strawberry Plains Pike and Thorngrove Pike, at a minimum, to be Agricultural Preservation to protect the land we own from over development in the future.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
The areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
The areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects. Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
The areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
SAVE OUR FARMS, SAVE AGRICULTURAL LAND The goal is to preserve the disappearing farms and agricultural land. Automatically changing all agricultural land to new zoning and NOT allowing rural residential zoning to stay rural does not serve this goal. DO NOT implement the current scheme. Knox County residents DO NOT want this to happen. SERVE THE PUBLIC
Kathy, 37721
August 8, 2026
On behalf of Parcel 013 138
Parcel 013 138 is approximately 2.5 acres, currently Agricultural and proposed RR. I want to preserve my ability to use the property for small-scale agriculture, including fruit trees, gardens, poultry/livestock, greenhouse plant propagation and sale of plants grown on the property. I also plan a 60'x48', 16' high building with a 60'x24' residence and 60'x24' shop while keeping my existing home. Please confirm RR permits these uses. Because my property is too small for proposed AR/RP minimum acreage, I am concerned small agricultural properties may lose important agricultural and development rights under RR.
Marcie, 37938
August 7, 2026
We need to know what the difference in rural agg and rural preservation is. How do we know what we want to ask if we don’t know the rules? We have aprox 7 Acers in Knoxville That join aprox 7 Acers in Union county. I was in the process of figuring out how to ask the counties to talk and greenbelt me. It is over 15 total. So now how does that go?
David, 37931
August 7, 2026
1. Confirm and clarify, in writing within the RR district standards, that "Agriculture" (including keeping livestock for personal, non commercial use) remains a permitted, by right use in RR, not a conditional use requiring a permit. 2. Publish the specific livestock or animal unit density standards proposed for RR so property owners like me can understand what we’re losing or keeping before the ordinance is finalized, not after. 3. Rather than lowering the acreage minimums for AR or RP, which exist to protect larger working farms, consider creating a new, smaller acreage tier (for example, 1 to 5 acres) specifically for hobby farming. This would give small parcels that have historically operated under Agricultural zoning a clearer, guaranteed set of agricultural rights than RR provides, without requiring the 15 acre or 5 acre minimums built for larger farm operations.
Small acreage properties that have historically operated under Agricultural zoning should not lose that flexibility simply due to lot size, especially when the stated intent of RR explicitly includes "hobby farming." I’d like to see that intent backed by clear, guaranteed standards rather than left ambiguous in this draft.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dave [redacted] Couch Mill Rd, Knoxville, TN 37931
Kevin, 37920
August 7, 2026
I support RP–Rural Preservation zoning, but the final UDO should expressly allow Rural Retreats to operate with agriculture, agritourism, livestock, and agricultural structures.
The current draft creates a conflict. Agriculture, agritourism, and Rural Retreat are permitted in RP, but the Rural Retreat definition excludes “a farm engaged in agriculture as defined by state law.” The one-principal-use limitation could also force owners to choose between rural lodging and raising sheep, cattle, donkeys, chickens, or other farm animals.
Please revise the UDO to: (1) allow agriculture, agritourism, customary livestock, pastures, and agricultural structures with a Rural Retreat; (2) allow multiple cabins on one parcel to collectively constitute one Rural Retreat; (3) allow Rural Retreat, agriculture, agritourism, and an approved Event Venue to coexist on the same RP parcel; and (4) treat livestock barns, fencing, shelters, and feed-storage buildings as agricultural structures rather than separate principal uses.
Suggested definition: “Rural Retreat: A facility providing rural lodging, recreation, conferences, banquets, meetings, or events. It may include multiple lodging structures on one parcel. Agriculture, agritourism, customary livestock, pasture, and agricultural structures may operate with a Rural Retreat.”
These compatible uses preserve rural character, maintain open land, support working farms, and strengthen rural businesses.
Make no mistake, changing Knox County's zoning code like this is a serious overhaul. Expecting local agricultural landowners to immediately grasp complex policy shifts and forcing us onto a tight timeline to submit "opt-in" requests just to preserve standard agricultural protection is unreasonable and rushed.
The burden shouldn't be placed entirely on farmers to figure out if their properties are being quietly defaulted into "Rural Residential" status and classified as nonconforming. The rural community is very upset with how this is being handled. Knoxville and Knox County leadership need to slow down, engage transparently, and extend the review process. Pissing off the local farming community isn't just bad polic, it's bad for the county's future
David, 37920
August 6, 2026
I own Parcel 159-034.04 on Martin Mill Pike. My adjacent neighbor, Parcel 159-033 on Rhea Road, is designated Rural Living on the Future Land Use Map, as is my property. However, my parcel is proposed as Rural Preservation (RP) while the adjacent parcel is proposed Agricultural Residential (AR). Please explain the planning rationale for assigning different zoning districts to adjacent parcels with the same Future Land Use designation and identify the differences in residential density and subdivision potential between the two proposed districts.
Ariel, 37917
August 5, 2026
Is there a reason why the option for property owners zoned Rural Residential (RR) or Rural Preservation (RP) have to opt IN for Agricultural District instead of an opt OUT? It just seems that the preservation of agricultural spaces/ slowing development has been at the forefront of the conversation. Changing this small detail might have a great impact in the ease of preserving these spaces.
Dan, 37920
August 4, 2026
A last minute trick to rezone all AG land to rural residential with less than 30 days notice, no guidance to property owners, and no real attempts at notifications is unacceptable.
Lindsay, 37918
August 4, 2026
I am curious to know if changing the zoning designation from Agricultural to Rural Residential will change the tax rate for a property?
Victor,
July 27, 2026
Subject: Comment on Draft UDO Zoning Map – 820, 826, and 0 Canton Hollow Road (Case No. 7-G-17-RZ).
East Knox County has around 1100 new apartments, condos, or houses that have been built or are in the process. We don't want to be the Corridor for development!!! We do not have the infrastructure to support everything that is already being put out here. We have one grocery store, the traffic is horrible, the schools are full, and Strawplains Pike near the elementary school is a HORRIBLE location for any subdivisions. Saying that kids can walk to school there is outrageous and dangerous! Developments should not be approved on areas that are supposed to be Hillside/Ridgetop Protection and when there are creeks, wetlands, and stormwater concerns. If this is what it is then your map makes no sense and there aren't REAL protections in place. Also tired of stuff getting approved just because developers and commissioners want to use the word "affordable" to get what they want then when things are built they are in no way affordable, but are just pushed through that way so the developers and the commission get what they want and the people that live in the communities are the ones that have to deal with more houses, more traffic, and more constraints on everything for houses the community can't even afford and do not want. Also tired of them saying we have a housing shortage. WE DO NOT have a housing shortage we have expensive apartments sitting empty and for lease signs everywhere all over town. Give us a break enough is enough and stop trying to make money off of our community!!!
Ellen, 37924
June 22, 2026
On behalf of The Monroes
We are highly opposed to any data centers being built in and/or around Knox County due to the negative environmental impact. The addition of data centers would not have a positive impact to any of our community members and instead would be a health hazard.
Sheena, 37932
June 22, 2026
Our family is opposed to any data centers being built in the Knoxville area. Data centers can have a significant negative impact on the environment because they consume enormous amounts of electricity to power servers and keep them cool, often relying on energy generated from fossil fuels. They also require large quantities of water for cooling systems, which can strain local water supplies, especially in drought-prone areas. In addition, building and expanding data centers uses vast amounts of land and raw materials, contributing to habitat loss and increased carbon emissions. These environmental concerns continue to become more significant and should be taken seriously.
Brittany, 37748
June 22, 2026
I don’t think Knoxville needs data centers. They take up a ton of land and resources, and the tradeoffs just don’t seem worth it for the community long-term. Before we start bringing in projects like this, we should be focusing on things that actually benefit the people who live here day to day.
Madison , 37931
June 21, 2026
Regarding the discussion around data center it's already been proven that data centers are detrimental to the environment I don't know why we're entertaining destroying Knoxville like this.
John, 37932
June 20, 2026
I just want to express my opinion against any data centers in Knox county.
Natalie , 37932
June 20, 2026
In my opinion we have enough AI data centers already we don't need more. I am not in favor of a data centers being built as it uses to much electricity and would cause harm to environments surrounding it.
Joanne, 37919
June 19, 2026
I don’t approve Data Centers in our area. We don’t want or need them. There is too much corruption and not enough environmental protection against impacts to our area.
Lauren, 37932
June 19, 2026
I implore the county commissioners to fully ban all data centers in Knox County. The data centers have been proven to be harmful to the health of human and animal residents. The noise pollution, light pollution, strain on power grids, unreal water consumption would be disastrous for Knox County residents and environment. These data centers are so new that the full scope of their effects is not fully known yet, and therefore, none should be built in Knox County.
Cathy, 37924
June 19, 2026
On behalf of Atkins
Attention Neighbors A developer wants to rezone 13.64 acres now on Strawberry Plains Pike in our neighborhood. This land is under the Rural Conservation Zone and they want to change it to Planned Residential. They want to change the land use from 1 house per acre to 5 per acre. That's about 68 new houses that they want to drop in the middle surrounded by single family homes. Many of the homes are 3rd & 4th generation landowners. This area in front of the property has a history of car wrecks. It is out of character and will destroy the planning to protect the land uses of this area. This property is hillside protected, has 2 creeks and a spring on it. It also has a wetland in front of Strawberry Plains Pike. The lay of this land is a huge hill that has a 150 foot TVA easement running right down the middle of it. This developer wants to have it rezoned without doing any of the studies concerning the use of this site. He wants a blanket ok to do whatever he can to our neighborhood from the rezoning.
Will the Planned Development concept be carried forward into the UDO? We hope so. There are some creative projects that we hope will be used in Knox County that may not fit squarely into the zones. The Planned Development process was well thought through and provides a pressure relief valve for projects that might be a square peg trying to fit through a round hole. It provides a way to consider and approve those projects with sufficient review and public involvement and oversight.
Richard, 37924
June 10, 2026
On behalf of self
The following are my comments and questions regarding data center and/or large sources:
1. land use, loss of land need for other usage - agriculture, industrial , commercial, residential
2. traffic both from construction and operation
3. power use generation on or off site, fuels
impact on current grid or grids
type of engines or combustion emissions, criteria and toxic
4. transmission lines require power from 2 or more grids
5. require roof solar panels
6 the need for the data center
7. stormwater runoff and return to groundwater
future floods
8. water usage
9. waste materials and disposal from construction and operations
10. noise
11. emissions criteria, toxic odors
12. health risk assessment
13. environmental impact statements
14. visual impact of the building, should it blend with the local ecosystem
15. thermal pollution, waste heat output. steam from cooling towers have a smell.
16. other items to be named.
James, 37923-1803
June 1, 2026
With KUB and TVA CONTINUALLY asking residents to “adjust thermostats” to reduce power consumption during days of extreme hot/cold temperatures, and also performing sporadic brownouts during periods of high power usage, HOW can they justify even potentially adding AI data center(s) to an already stressed and inadequate grid system when these entities have been PROVEN to consume extreme amounts of power on a DAILY basis?
Due to medical equipment reasons that require dependable power to be continually delivered to my residence, this has me truly concerned.
Until more nuclear power is brought on board, I see no way for the area's current power/grid structure to be able to handle a power drain that any sort of data center would require.
John, 37938
May 28, 2026
What are we doing...??? Way too many zones...the resulting map looks like a jig-saw puzzle...that's not good for anyone and will only lead to confusion and strife for and between Planners, citizens, developers and everyone. We need clear and concise zones. Also, there are current PR-zoned properties that are designated as Rural Residential...which requires 100'-wide lots? How is that going to make housing more affordable, when that will cost way more money. Why so many designations...AG, Open Space, Rural Residential, Rural Preservation...you're overly complicating matter...one zone would suffice for all of those.
Leah, 37920
May 27, 2026
I ask that you please do everything in your power to prevent any data centers being built in Knoxville. TVA has already had grid issues multiple summers that has required them to ask Knoxville residents to limit our residential use. We do not have the electric capacity to sustain a data center.
Not even going to go into the other huge issue of water use and global warming..
Best Regards,
Leah Knoxville, TN 37920
Keoni, 37920
May 27, 2026
I ask that you please do everything in your power to prevent any data centers being built in Knoxville. TVA has already had grid issues multiple summers that has required them to ask Knoxville residents to limit our residential use. We do not have the electric capacity to sustain a data center.
Not even going to go into the other huge issue of water use and global warming..
Best Regards,
Keoni Knoxville, TN 37920
Tarah, 37763
May 22, 2026
On behalf of Data centers
We do not want data centers he they do not provide anything good to the community please look at what’s best for us instead of what brings in more money!
Denise, 37918
May 22, 2026
I am here to voice my objection that any land in Knox county be used for a data center greater than 30 MW—which is the high end for an enterprise data center. I am absolutely opposed to the colossal size data centers such as those being built in the Memphis area! Knox county should build regulations that completely prohibit ANY land used for such data centers greater than 30 MW! Thank you!
Kevin,
April 20, 2026
One note: the zoning ordinance, or the comprehensive plan, will need to define what zoning districts are consistent with the PlaceTypes.If this isn't done, then the Growth Plan 4.2 statement is impossible to interpret or enforce4.2 Rezonings within the Rural area shall be limited to zoning districts that are consistent with the following placetypes: Rural Crossroads, Rural Conservation, and Rural Living and be consistent with the adopted comprehensive land use and transportation plan. (See placetypes in Appendix).
Joyce, 37919
April 6, 2026
Regarding the issue of connectivity for NR-1 and NR-2 districts, the proposed language states "interconnectivity between developments is encouraged". This language is not strong enough and will simply be ignored. Connectivity should be required between adjacent developments unless extenuating circumstances make it impossible to achieve.
Michael, 37721
April 6, 2026
On behalf of Thorson
We have seen how lives have changed in Farragut, please slow this growth.. As a NE Knox county resident (Corryton), we live in what is truly a rural community, and rest assured every tax-paying voter living there, likes it that way. I am aware developers are basically going door to door to buy any parcel of land over 5 acres, but you do NOT have to let them get their way and obliterate yet another rural community. This is almost one of the last areas that is actually rural, let's please keep it this way.
Worth mentioning, Washington Pike you cannot widen, between the school, the train tracks, the grave yards, there is zero way to widen it to accommodate more traffic. Even Washington Pike and this initiative aside, you can widen rural roads to accommodate (and ruin) more traffic and pat yourself on the back for being proactive, but the 40 and especially the 40 to 75 are parking lots and only getting worse by the day and no way to do anything. Life her is tolerable, this planned growth is going to make it miserable.
I know when asked politicians will say "we have to grow to reduce the cost of housing" which in a hot market, is everything but the truth and everyone knows it. There is no benefit to any of this for any existing tax-paying voters, you are just ruining our quality of life. The only people that will benefit from this are the developers and the politicians they are working with. I hope everyone remembers this when it is their time to vote.
Suzie, 37920
April 3, 2026
At Monday night's meet I am hopeful that our 3 Ag designations are passed as shown. Look at the 2814 Tipton Station /Schubert property. You will see that its zoning is far out of character with the plan. UDO and PLANNING folks know and request it be changed to keep the potential use and to be consistent with everything else in the community.
Ronnie , 37922
April 1, 2026
Regarding parking for commercial businesses, am I correctly discerning that there will be no front street parking? If so, after 15 years as a retail store owner, this would be disastrous for walk in traffic. People will drive by and seeing no visible parking available will say forget it. This concept is a major detriment already for our downtown businesses.
Amy, 37931
April 1, 2026
On behalf of Carter Cove Subdivision
I was so confused as to the Heavy Industrial zoning off Schaud an Bakertown and Ball Road. We all expected retail and light industrial but the amount of residential that is going into the area I question the Heavy Industrial.
Wilma, 37938
March 31, 2026
On behalf of Bull Run Valley/VAlley Dream Farm
The MPC should NOT be rezoning agricultural land into commercial or industrial.
We have very little natural land left as much of Knox County has been developed in a willy nilly way without taking into consideration, widespread traffic, existing infrastructure etc.........TVA is maxxed out on electricity......local utilities are maxxed out on clean water production.....the air is becoming more and more polluted.
In addition, our County, Knox is more than a BILLION dollars in debt. it is time to step back and think about the taxpayers/citizens of this county......not the special interests of developers, real estate agents and lawyers........every professional in our County should be embarrassed over this state of our County. I hope the citizens of Knox County will step up and demand that a plan that contemplates rezoning the little of agriculture land left in Knox County is totally retooled.
Developers at this point should be redeveloping in blighted areas and not hurting the quality of life of our citizens through plans like this one. I am totally against this plan proceeding. Wilma J.
John, 37922
March 29, 2026
On behalf of John Steinberger
I don't want to see all of the yellow region on the map converted into 5-homes-per-acre subdivisions. It would not be in character for the existing communities. Also, Choto and other existing largely rural communities need more retail. Choto does not have a grocery store. People have to drive to Farragut to buy food.
Joyce, 37919
March 11, 2026
Will you be recommending regulations for short-term rentals? There should be a permitting process and the applicant should sign an affidavit testifying that all information submitted in the application is accurate. An application fee that covers the County's cost of regulation should be required. STRs in residential districts should be owner-occupied. STRs reduce the available housing stock for long-term residents and often cause problems for surrounding neighbors.
Kevin,
March 9, 2026
On Behalf Of: Knox County Farm Bureau Board of Directors In v2 of the proposed Use Definition, the use definition of "agriculture" is not broad enough. It refers to crops or livestock. Agriculture, as defined in Tennessee code 1-3-105 (2) includes farm products and nursery stock. "Farm Products" means forage and sod crops; grains and feed crops; dairy and dairy products; poultry and poultry products; livestock, including breeding and grazing; fruits; vegetables; flowers; seeds; grasses; forestry products; fish and other aquatic animals used for food; bees; equine; and all other plants and animals that produce food, feed, fiber or fur
The term "nursery stock" means all trees, shrubs, or other plants, or parts of such trees, shrubs or other plants, grown or kept for, or capable of, propagation, distribution or sale on a commercial basis.
Specifically, Knox County Farm Bureau calls out that the proposed definition of agriculture depends on the word "crops" - a term which is not defined. We urge you to define "crops" similarly to "farm products" in TCA. We also urge you to include nursery stock. We are especially concerned about the omission of forestry products from the proposed use definition of Agriculture.
Martin , 37909
March 8, 2026
On behalf of self
Hello, with regard to the sign regulations in the county, I encourage the commission to remain business friendly and to generally incorporate the sign regulations set forth in Section 3.90 of the current zoning ordinance. I would, however, suggest allowing digital signs (referred to as "EMCs" in the current ordinance) up to 200 s.f. when a sign is oriented towards the interstate highway. The 60 second hold time should be reduced to 10 seconds as there has been shown to be no measurable distraction for digital signs that have a hold time in that duration. Thank you.
Cindy, 37922
February 26, 2026
A comment and a question: The beauty of our area and water quality are devastated by development of our ridgetops. Hardin Valley and Lovell Rd areas of Pellissippi Parkway are sickening examples. Please protect our ridgetops. Will this plan address short-term lodging without breakfast or an on-site owner/manager? Thanks!
I wanted to share a short memo and example scenario for your review that introduces a potential Development Rights Transfer Ordinance for Knox County.
This is intended to start a conversation around a voluntary, property-rights-based tool that could help guide growth toward appropriate areas while giving landowners additional flexibility. The attached memo outlines the concept, along with a simple example to show how it could work in practice.
I would welcome feedback and am happy to discuss or answer any questions if there is interest in exploring the idea further.
I’ve spent a good amount of time getting familiar with the proposed placetypes and zoning updates, and one area that stood out to me is the naming of the AP (Agricultural Preservation) and AR (Agricultural Rural) districts. While I think both zoning districts themselves are reasonable, I worry that the names are easily confused and may be unclear to many Knox County residents.
In particular, "Agricultural Preservation" sounds as though it broadly preserves agricultural land, when in practice it functions more as a framework for clustered development to protect certain environmental constraints. Meanwhile, the Agricultural Rural zoning district seems better aligned with preserving true agricultural use. The names sound very similar, despite having different meanings in practice.
Some of this confusion may also stem from the placetype names "Rural Living" and "Rural Preservation." While it may be too late to adjust those names, they can feel somewhat counterintuitive to the public—"Rural Preservation" sounds like it would preserve rural character broadly, while "Rural Living" might suggest more clustered residential development, when in reality the intent is closer to the opposite.
Kevin,
February 11, 2026
The proposed Proposed Purpose Statement for the ‘NR-Neighborhood Residential Zoning District’ states that “interconnectivity between developments is encouraged” The KCPA board strongly feels that this should be changed to interconnectivity between developments is required. Our reasoning is that optional ‘encouragement’, which has been the policy in Knox County for decades, has not led to actual interconnectivity. Only by clearly stating that connectivity is required will we begin to see neighborhoods connect. See attached document for full discussion and an example of where this has benefited the developer-applicant.
As we look at the zoning administration, the criteria and considerations for a map amendment are important to specify. Williamson County has a very thorough section about zoning amendments that could be a good model to follow The Williamson County Zoning Ordinance is published at https://www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14874/034-Zoning-Ordinance-06-10-2025?bidId=#page=29 Article 4 Section 4.05 is a good reference. I have extracted and attached Article 4 to this comment.
We are grateful for your time and assistance in sharing our recommended changes related to Food Bank and Food Pantry within the proposed Consolidated Uses and Definitions section of the UDO (Module A). The pdf is attached.
On the Module A - Zoning Districts survey that is currently underway:
The survey doesn't list the full Proposed Purpose statement of the zoning district - just a few bullet point summaries that don't provide the full context of the proposed purpose statement.
More importantly, participants can't offer feedback on each zoning district when they are presented with the info - just feedback on that scale from 1 to 5. It would be helpful, and it would make people feel they are being asked for their input, if an open-ended question for each zoning question was added alongside the Scale 1-5 ratings. Ask an open ended question "(Optional): are there reasons you would like to share about why you gave it these ratings, or feedback that you have on the proposed zoning district?"
The current format is frustrating, because you think that's all you're going to be asked - to rate them from 1 to 5.
Then, when you are asked at the end, it's up to the participant to figure out how to organize and write up all of the information into the open-ended response field. That certainly makes it difficult for the submitter and I imagine it also is difficult for reviewers to have that unstructured response.
Would it be possible to add an open-ended question to each zoning district response, and to add the full proposed zoning district purpose to the survey?
Andrea, 37920
February 3, 2026
I oppose the zoning change that allows multi family housing on my street, McCarrell Lane, in the Lakemoor Hills subdivision. This entire neighborhood is zoned as single family housing. There are no multi housing units. The proposed zoning change applies only to McCarrell Lane where there are large tracts of undeveloped land. This unprecedented change in zoning from single family to multi family that applies to only a small area in Lakemoor Hills, appears targeted to benefit developers and builders to the detriment of the single family home owners and changes the entire neighborhood. Please revise the plan to protect my home.
Brenda, 37932
December 5, 2025
Work on sufficient roads and schools before you add more people. Campbell Station is a good example as well as Yarnell Rd. These roads are also. used to bypass I-40/75 back ups.
Also make sure our schools are not overcrowded by new subdivisions.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self
3) Denuding slopes.
Drive up and down Hardin Valley. Hilltops have been razed and the slopes denuded. The direct effects are obviously devastating to the local environment. The indirect effects on the local rivers are somewhat less visible, but equally devastating. After a big rain, or even a small one, the roads are filled with mud - the sediment-filled runoff from these developments. When this mud makes its way to our streams it wreaks havoc.
What to do?
* Associated rules should be strengthened, or existing rules should be enforced. Not sure which.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self
2) Infrastructure as an afterthought.
It feels like hundreds of new housing units can be erected without any plan for dealing with the additional infrastructure requirements, especially schools and transportation.
What to do?
* Plans for dealing with additional strains on all types of infrastructure should be in place before greenlighting any large development.
* To reduce transportation requirements, local shopping options, playgrounds, athletic fields and greenways should also be included in the infrastructure plan.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self
* Require buffer zones so developments don’t go to the edge of their property lines. This is not only good for ecosystems, it is also just neighborly.
* Grading and slope requirements drive the cut and fill mentality of most large developments. These rules, combined with the area’s hilly terrain, demand a lot of fill, and the only economically feasible place to get the fill from is local hills. And you can’t get the dirt from the hills, or fill in the hollers, without killing all the vegetation. These requirements should be revised to allow developers to work with the local topography, not force them to homogenize it.
* I would love to see some sort of native plant landscaping requirement. Until that becomes practical, don’t leave rules in place that make it difficult for people to nativize their property. Weed ordinances come to mind. There is a difference between an unkempt yard and one being optimized for native plants. Rules should be written such that this difference is recognized. Ideally, such rules would be written in such a way that homeowners, fighting with their HOA over nativization efforts, could cite them.
* Ban plants found on broadly-recognized lists of invasive species.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self
Three things where Knox County development can be done better (separate messages due to space constraints):
1)Thoughtless extirpation of native plants and high-value trees.
Native plants and high-value trees provide shade, habitat and a sense of being connected to the world around us. But the development process often eliminates them without a second thought. Native ecosystems are graded to the property line. Installed landscaping is rarely focused on native plants, and far too often introduces harmful invasive species, compounding the damage. “Weed” ordinances and other poorly-thought-out-rules make it difficult to do the right thing, even when a developer or homeowner wants to.
What to do?
Maureen, 37932
October 23, 2025
Disparity between the County Place Types Map and the County Zoning Map creates ambiguity in zoning and thus a watered down implementation of the Place Types that we envision. I live in a "rural conservation" area, but the zoning allows for small lots. All those small lots are quickly turned from rural to suburban. Meadows and fields (rural) turn into turf lawns and landscape beds full of exotic plants (suburban). The result is that rural areas are NOT conserved, but converted to suburban.
Sherri, 37849
October 11, 2025
I have heard time and time again that we must let developers do whatever they wish for the properties they purchase, yet the average citizen is not allowed to do certain things on their property. I get there needs to be some regulations, but property owners should not be restricted in certain areas, especially in the county lower residential zones. Homeowners in lower density such as RA and RB should be allowed some homesteading activities on their properties with some minor restrictions. Higher density should have a few more strict restrictions, as the neighbors are closer.
Development in this area should stop until what's approved and the infastructure has caught up. No one is talking about the properties approved for development that have been in the works for months and years. We must be realistic about what this county can handle with development, as without proper infastructure, such as roads, schools, health care, we will end up turning into cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and Memphis. Knox County should be responsible and make common sense decisions and stop approving development just because they asked for them.
The last thing I must say in regards to planning commission. Being in real estate and development on that commission is a huge conflict of interest and anyone in those fields should not be on there.
Cecalee, 37721
October 8, 2025
On behalf of Corryton elem
Bring ag and farm options to Gibbs/Corryton schools!!
Catherine, 37922
October 5, 2025
On behalf of personal comments
Protect Native Plants & Wildlife
• Without native plants, we lose native insects and then the birds that depend on them.
• Native bees are essential pollinators; crops like tomatoes depend on them.
• Ban invasive plants like Bradford Pear, Privet, Honeysuckle, and Kudzu.
Non-native invasive plants overwhelm native plants, which impacts the entire ecosystem that depends on those native plants—from microbes to insects and pollinators to birds and small mammals/wildlife.
Geneva, 37802
October 5, 2025
On behalf of Knox and surrounding counties.
If Chattanooga can be a national parks city, why can't Knoxville be a green space city and lead the surrounding counties with its example. Fewer houses per lot Farther lot setbacks Mandatory green spaces in communities Low mow, no mow and bee friendly public spaces and roadsides. The Tennessee Smart Yards program is a great resource and a resource we should use, Tourism is a major financial driver for the state of Tennessee. Tourists come to see our states natural beauty. Losing 2-4 million acres of farmland by 2027 per UT Knoxville estimates says we are fast losing that beauty. Let's preserve what makes us unique and lead the surrounding counties in preserving our unique ecosystem as well. Geneva A.
Elizabeth, 37920
October 4, 2025
Tennessee's native plants are beautiful, support local pollinators and bird species, and decrease the threat of damage from stormwater by increasing soil stability and water infiltration.
New developments in Knoxville should include wide buffers (at least 50 feet in rural areas) and be required to landscape with native species. Weed codes should also be changed so that homeowners and businesses are not punished for incorporating tall native wildflowers ("forbs") in addition to native grasses.
Winter, 37917
October 4, 2025
I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.They would help our native insects, birds and animals to thrive. Their deep roots will help to keep water where it falls. Please consider.
Macey, 37918
October 3, 2025
Allow taller native plants and wildflowers (“forbs”): Many of our butterflies and bees need those late season native flowers (and some even specialize on them), which are often taller plants. Examples include (but are not limited to): Verbesina virginica, Vernonia gigantea, and Eutrochium purpureum.
Require new developments to use all-native landscaping. Native landscaping is what is needed to provide the best and most food for the most wildlife, which includes butterflies, bees, and birds. Not only are these creatures important for beautifying our county, but they are also vital for the pollination of our food crops.
Native-lined greenways and local schools provide habitat, natural beauty, and lower maintenance. They are also wonderful ways to get children to appreciate nature and to find positive hobbies like gardening and bird watching.
Kathleen, 37923
October 3, 2025
On behalf of Self-homeowner
--I am concerned with the pace of clear-cutting and usually scraping all the soil from forested and other natural areas for development. We need to consider how this adds to the erosion of our native soils and often dumps that soil and vegetation into our stormwater and waterways. Those who develop new areas should be required to consider basic principles that conserve trees and when planning new landscaping there should be a requirement to use at least 50% native plants. More native plants should also be used along highways and green strips. These practices would help support our critical native pollinators and birds, and add to the beauty of Knox County, which is a major reason many of us so enjoy living here.
John, 37922
October 3, 2025
On behalf of Watson
Infrastructure is the key to support your tax payers while I have lived in the area over 30 years, we continue to grow and prosper for all concerned, but the priorities are not being her from your citizens.
If addition housing developments are being considered, then schools, emergency services, and roadway accessibility must be at the forefront of those decisions. Living in the Choto area, multiple homes are being built, while roadways, emergency services can not keep up with the growth. One neighbor’s husband needed emergency services, but when services were requested, none were available. The response times are terrible, mainly due to overcrowded roadways.
Choto area must stay rural, and not part of farragut.
Why has it taken so long to open Boyd station road? Who is benefiting from the continual delays. KEY FEATURES; large lots, country setting, privacy, and easy access for emergency vehicles on roadways, especially, when car wrecks occur and no space to go to side of roadway, to allow passing for emergency responses.
I would like to see incentives for the preservation of trees. The tree canopy in Knox County is dwindling, and this urgently needs to be addressed. Thank you for your consideration.
Denise, 37917
October 3, 2025
I'm writing to ask that you update local ordinances to encourage the planting of native plants in yards, greenways, natural landscapes and buffer zones. The science is clear - the overuse of non-native and invasive landscaping plants is terrible for local insect life, with serious consequences for other animals all the way up the food chain. Our local rules need to be updated to allow us all to create vibrant native landscapes for our animal neighbors, and more beauty for Knox County's human inhabitants as well.
Sarah, 37922
October 3, 2025
Please consider preference for farmer-supportive grocers in neighborhoods. Please also review stormwater management for new developments for both effective stormwater management but also for ecological benefit. We support walkable neighborhoods and communities in West Knox!
Michelle, 37804
October 2, 2025
I am the local rehabilitator for reptiles. That includes all species of turtles found in our area. Each year I see 60 animals injured by human interactions. This does not include the amount of animals that need to be euthanized and never make it to rehab. For those numbers, please consult UT. Many of these are our local Eastern Box turtle. The eastern box turtle is a precious local species. We are lucky to have them. Many parts of their territory, they are vulnerable or extinct. Their main threat is habitat loss. 60% of the world's turtle species are critically endangered. As Tennesseans and as Knoxville residents, we need to protect our wild spaces to ensure the continuation of these important species. Please protect our wetlands and out pocket forests. It is all these animals have left. Everything we label as progress, is considered destruction to them. Please consider consulting local conservationists, forestry specialists and ecologists before destroying what little we have left.
KK, 37922
October 2, 2025
Knox County needs to go after all the kudzu before it takes over! It had a particularly healthy growing season this year. Removing the kudzu should be the number one priority.
Thomas, 37917
October 2, 2025
Knox County should ban invasive species and require primarily native species as new developments are constructed. Some invasives, like Bradford pear and kudzu, are causing major harm, taking over many natural and native sites across the county.
The codes should support native and natural landscaped areas through keeping and strengthening Knox County’s definition of "Natural Landscaped Area." The revised code should require protection of the hillsides and ridgetop areas. Support efforts for homeowners to plant native yards.
Include recommendations from the Trees Knoxville Urban Forestry Plan to protect and expand the urban forest canopy. Many Knox County residents are working on efforts to protect and expand natural and native areas to attract native bees and other pollinators, and the codes can help support these efforts. Update mowing and roadside maintenance to favor natives, not invasives.
The county should look for ways to expand parks & greenways for people and nature. Support the maintenance of parks and greenways by reducing mowing and planting of native species. This will save money and help the environment. Knoxville and Knox County are considered an outdoor recreation destination, and increasing park and greenways that support native habitats will add to that draw.
This could make Knox County a nature-tourism destination.
Melinda, 37934
October 2, 2025
Knox county needs to prioritize native plants, which support biodiversity of plants, insects, birds and larger wildlife. Please legislate to encourage banning and removal of invasive species like privet, honeysuckle and kudzu. Replace with native plants.
Please make it so HOAs cannot ban natives or site homeowners for "weeds."
When I begin incorporating more natives in my own yard, I noticed and increase in butterflies and bees. These pollinators are important for our food and humans' survival. I am lucky to live in a neighborhood where the HOA does not ban these plants. Some of my friends are not so lucky and their neighborhoods are so devoid of wildlife. Bluebirds used to be plentiful, for example, and now are more rare to see.
Planting natives along Greenways minimizes maintenance and increases wildlife habitat.
Please make Knox County a model for returning native plants to our landscapes, roadways and neighborhood. Be a model for preserving native plants already here by prohibiting complete destruction with developments. Require new developments to plant natives. Thank you!
Melanie, 37920
October 2, 2025
I whole heartedly support a ban on invasive plants and the subsequential requirement of native plants for all new developments. Currently my property is overrun by Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) due to the property adjacent. The property owner removed 90% of the wooded area but left two very large Tree of Heaven trees in anticipation of development which was abandoned 5 years ago. This caused that species to thrive and spread at an unmanageable rate. It has caused me a significant financial burden to ATTEMPT to mitigate. It is still not under control. Developers and new property owners need to be informed about and required to remove any plants listed on the Tennessee Invasive Plant List prior to development.
Furthermore, I would like to see updated codes so that homeowners can plant native yards without being cited for weeds. These landscapes are better for pollinators, local wildlife, and stormwater management.
Please require the use of native plants that support pollinators. Encourage natural landscaping that is supportive of wildlife and insects including ponds and water features. Require of a variety of native trees, native plants and wildflowers, and native grasses to sustain our wildlife and pollinators and help manage stormwater. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Nancy, 37934
October 2, 2025
I am replacing much of my lawn with native plants in both Knox County and Louisiana. It is a big undertaking requiring several years of patience. It will payoff by reducing use of water for irrigation and chemical pollutants from pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. The new landscapes are beautiful and alive with pollinators. Please revise the UDO to encourage the unimpeded expansion of native landscaping for all home, business, and public lands.
Evan, 37806
October 2, 2025
I support banning invasive plants like Bradford Pear and Privet. They are destroying our native landscapes.
Please update codes so homeowners can plant native yards without being cited for weeds. These landscapes are better for pollinators and stormwater management.
New developments should include wider buffers and require invasive removal. This protects wildlife and prevents flooding.
I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.
Elysia, 37919
October 2, 2025
I support ordinances and initiatives that encourage native plants. Not only are they practical, but they provide a source of understanding and attachment to place. The more we see and learn to appreciate the natural species of our area, the more we feel a sense of belonging and a responsibility to participate, nurture, and care for the place we live. I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.
Joyce, 37920
October 2, 2025
On behalf of Greene
37920
I think that along our roadsides more controlled mowing should be applied to favor native plants and not just weeds and invasive. I have seen and applaud areas where wildflowers have been grown--and encourage even more of this effort. Keep turf grass low and used as borders but allow native plants and wildflowers to grow tall. Also, in the fall, allow those native plants to remain standing until Spring to provide shelter and food for wildlife.
I would like to see a registry or certification system for local/state-wide native yards and gardens/areas in order to support the cooperation between those responsible for developing and maintaining these areas. There is much to share--information, plants and seeds, etc. with each other to support and recognize the work done. In the city and other public areas, signage would be helpful to explain the work being done and parties supporting the work.
HOAs should not be allowed to ban native landscapes. Instead, these should be supported by the city and encouraged.
New housing developments should be required to provide space(s) for residents to develop gardens as well as open areas that each small "community" can use for rest and recreation. Green areas for all---including families living in apartments and townhomes.
Nancy, 37920
October 2, 2025
The Advance Knox initiative is an important opportunity for us to protect our natural surroundings in Knox County. By focusing on incentives to protect native plants and wildlife, we encourage native bees and other pollinators. So much of our farmland in Knox County has been converted to housing, reducing large areas of native plants. We should encourage homeowners to recreate that in their landscapes and lawns. Knox County should focus on native plants in all public lands. In addition, the county should focus on removal of as much invasive plant material as possible.
We have many non-profit organizations in Knox County that could become helpful partners for invasive plant removal; Knox County government should establish way to collaborate with these organizations (I belong to several of them). Knox County should also expand homeowner programs such as Smart Yards, a UT Extension/Knox County Master Gardeners program that helps homeowners develop native yards. At one time Knox County provided homeowner assistance in developing rain gardens to control water runoff. With Knox County government support and promotion, These programs can be useful to homeowners and benefit the entire area.
Thanks.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Require the use of green infrastructure such as pervious pavers, stormwater, swales, raingardens, and other features that allow stormwater to be captured, treated and infiltrated.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Please ensure protection of stream side, corridors and enhancement. Remove invasive species and replace with native plants and trees, not cultivars. Ensure adequate depth of buffer with vegetation for stream cover and overall aquatic health. Thank you.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Also, please consider and encourage the use of meadow and prairie type vegetation and management styles that include no mowing or seasonal mowing or burning. Encourage no fertilizer or pesticide use. Allow for natural looking landscapes and management of them. Allow plants to remain overwinter to provide habitat for insects and pollinators. Encourage leaving the leaves again for habitat for insects and pollinators. Thank you.
Katie, 37917
October 2, 2025
Please consider prioritizing use of native plant species rather than non-natives or invasives.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Regarding the Landscape code, please require the use of native plants that support pollinators, including taller plants, such as forbes and and also encourage the use of rain gardens. Encourage natural looking landscaping that is supportive of wildlife including ponds and water features that allow access to water for insects and other wildlife.. Require of a variety of native trees wildflowers, native grasses and forbes erc that support our wildlife and pollinators and that helped manage stormwater. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Maureen, 37932
October 2, 2025
Support homeowners who opt for native landscape areas by limiting county “weed” citations. We know that every landowner’s actions affect neighbors and communities. Native plants encourage biodiversity and help to limit erosion and storm water runoff.
Dianne, 37920
October 1, 2025
On behalf of Myself
I am a gardener and appreciate all of the native lands in and near my flower and vegetable gardens. They ensure a more successful season due to attracting desirable pollinators and birds and helping with erosion problems.
I urge anyone with interest in native plants, especially developers, to visit a wonderful example at Seven Islands State Park. No homeowner should be cited for having a native landscape and invasive should be removed before development happens following the TN Invasive Plant List. If anything, Knox County should keep and strengthen the definition of “Natural Landscape Area” and encourage use of it to restore the important balance in our environment.
Emily, 37920
October 1, 2025
We need to incentivize the use and protection of native plant species. We all can appreciate the beauty of native wildlife when we go to state parks. And it feels completely different from the side of the highways when we see a forest covered in kudzu vines.
Native species allow wildlife to flourish. we take care of it and it takes care of us in return. With non native and invasive species, they take spaces that native plants need, reducing resources for our animals. There’s less food, habitats, and shelter for mammals, bugs, birds, and pollinators when we allow invasive plants a space in our community.
1. Create incentives for private land owners, businesses, and communities to promote native plant use
2. Ban the use of plants off of the Tennessee Invasive Plants List, especially in public projects.
3. Promote resiliency in our community by creating stormwater drainage and erosion control areas where needed by using native landscaping designs.
4. Update codes and laws that penalize landowners for using native species or having native lawns. Allow wildflowers (“forbs”) in lawns. Biodiversity is important
5. Strengthen our urban greenways by setting aside more space and planting natives along the roads.
Emily, 37920
October 1, 2025
Promoting native landscapes increases pollinator populations, more wildflower, increases biodiversity levels, and increases the resiliency of our ecosystems. It’s rewarding to spend time in nature, knowing that these spaces allow wildlife to flourish too. We can all see the beauty in places like our state parks, and we can see what lose— looking out the window on the highway to see a forest covered in kudzu. Some invasive species completely take over areas, meaning less nesting spaces for our birds, less food for our bugs, and less habitat for our mammals. Other Invasive and non-native species act like junk food for our wildlife. While they may eat it, it doesn’t provide any of the nutrients they need. It weakens wildlife populations and leads to decreased populations.
1. Ban planting species from the Tennessee Invasive Plant List, especially for official projects. Instead, require natives to be used for landscape and revitalization parts.
2. Update ordinance laws to protect native lawns, which are currently being punished due to “weed laws”. Instead, incentivize private property and businesses to plant natives in their lawns.
3. Prohibit HOAs from penalizing homeowners for planting native species
4. Build resiliency: create stormwater drainage areas with water loving native plants and manage erosion prone areas with native plants that naturally mitigate erosion
Marlene, 37919
October 1, 2025
Please forego grass for meadows of native plants. Located next to the Smoky Mountains -- habitats of many diverse herbaceous plants -- Knoxville is ideal for going back to Nature and letting our native plants thrive. Let's be a pollinator city -- grounds filled with honey bees, butterflies and birds! This is a win-win opportunity. Think of the reduction of fossil fuel use, noise pollution and the ridiculous habit of mowing practically everything. Yes to Native plants, please!
Amber, 37914
September 29, 2025
I have lived in east Tennessee my whole life and I am concerned about the continual increase of development. We live in a beautiful area so I can understand why people want to live here but I wish these developers would respect our natural areas and topography. I am concerned about flooding in our region, as we live in a valley. How much development can we take before we start having dire consequences? Please consider leaving natural areas as part of these development designs for the sake of our future.
Subrina, 37912
September 29, 2025
Better and more transportation options. I moved from Cincinnati to Knoxville in 1997 to attend college here. I remembered a friend and I caught the bus to West Town Mall on the way back we missed the bus. We had to wait at least 1 hour if not more for the next bus to come. I told my friend I would never catch the bus here in Knoxville ever again and I didn't. That weekend I caught the Greyhound back home and drove my car back to Knoxville. That was 20 years ago and the city has grown significantly since then with no changes in public transportation. In Cincinnati in the majority of the area you can catch a bus every 15 to 20 minutes with several different buses/routes that interconnect with one another providing riders different route options depending on where they are going in the city. Better public transportstion would increase individuals who ride the bus and as a result decrease automobile use and traffic.
Hi, do you all drive these roads? If yes, how many times have you had to worry about coming upon a pedestrian in the street because there is nowhere for them to walk. Or how about all the new subdivisions being built next to smallest roads which increase traffic jams. Does having more people live here equal a better city? If yes, how about mixed zoning like we use to have? Less commute time is a thing. And how about the cost of living? I'm guessing most of those who are involved in whatever this is don't really feel the effects of increased property cost. If you do, I'm sure you can survive it. There's nothing more we as citizens want than to have a city we are proud to live in, but if the city is brutal to even step foot on that's not really a place worth living. There are some real improvements going on but we need to keep that momentum going. In short, more sidewalks, mixed zoning, rent control. Thank you.
Maria,
September 26, 2025
East Tennessee REALTORS has compiled a high level brief of UDO priorities to help guide discussion during the process. The attached document echoes our statements during the initial feedback meetings and adds detail, intended to help our members and partners advocate for a UDO that will support smart growth and align with the Advance Knox Comprehensive Plan.
The highlighted priorities were identified by the association through many rounds of discussion and meetings with REALTOR® members, developers, architects, construction industry professionals and other relevant stakeholders. The intent of our approach is to quantify specific areas of opportunity without prescribing technical solutions that are best created through the process with Orion Planning + Design.
We were very pleased to see the Orion team's initial assessment so closely align with our identified areas of focus, and look forward to continuing to participate in the process.
I would strongly encourage regulations to protect forested areas, steep slopes, wetlands, sinkholes, and similar ecologically important lands. Flexibility should be provided in ordinances to allow for clustering development on the more developable parts of the land and protecting those areas that are more challenging. I would also like to see a focus on wildlife habitat and integrating it into the development process so that corridors are provided along with open spaces that would be required with all subdivisions.
I would love to see more multi-use paths and connecting them and a stronger focus on transportation options that help lessen our dependence on automobiles. I support more compact and mixed use development where infrastructure is readily available vs. greenfield and single use developments that are a net cost to taxpayers and extend infrastructure into rural areas that should be retained for agricultural or natural purposes. Thank you for this opportunity to comment.
Axel,
September 19, 2025
The attached comments are submitted on behalf of the Harvey Broome Group Sierra Club.
On behalf of League of Women Voters of Knoxville/Knox County
The League of Women Voters of Knoxville/Knox County is a non-partisan, grassroots organization which encourages informed and active participation in government and advocates for public policies that strengthen our democracy and empower voters.
Our organization is committed to advocating for smart development and land use policies that preserve our natural and cultural resources. On behalf of our organization, we would ask the following to be considered in the development of the Unified Development Ordinance.
We request that: - Ridges, slopes, open spaces, and vegetation critical to biodiversity, natural habitats and historic/scenic character be preserved. - Natural areas are conserved or restored, storm water pollution reduced and waterways protected. - Policies be considered that equitably balance and distribute the costs and benefits of population growth to all. - Infill development and investment in existing communities be promoted. - Community appearance and livability be enhanced. - Communication with the public, understanding of the process, government transparency, and the ability to appeal are important and should be improved.
Thank you for considering our comments in the future planning stages of the Unified Development Ordinance.
Kevin, 37918
July 17, 2025
On behalf of Knox Community Planning Alliance
The Knox Community Planning Alliance published policy statement about the UDO in early July. In it are some observations and suggestions for the UDO to address.
The current policy statement may be accessed at: https://www.kcpa.us/2025/07/kpca-policy-statement-for-new-knox-county-unified-development-ordinance-udo/
Chris, 37938
August 18, 2026
The current Knox County Comprehensive Plan map was formally approved in April 2024. At that time, the property listed as "Fort Sumter Road" near the intersection of Fort Sumter and McCloud Road, was clearly designated as Rural under the adopted plan.
Public records show that this property was purchased in July 2024. Two years later, in June/early July 2026, the owning LLC filed a zoning change request "Case 8-D-26-PA" seeking a density of three homes per acre, which is inconsistent with the Rural designation in place at the time of purchase and at the time of filing.
Shortly afterward, when the latest draft of the UDO map was released in July 2026, this same property appeared as a "Rural Hub", a new category shown in bright pink on the map. This change occurred while the zoning variance hearing was delayed at the request of the applicant.
The sequence of events raises important questions about timing, transparency, and whether certain parties may have had early knowledge of upcoming map changes that would benefit this specific rezoning request. Or even advanced notice to allow Fort Sumter LLC to purchase the property BEFORE the zoning changed to enable them to buy the property at reduced rates. Residents deserve clarity on how who knew about the potential zoning changes and their relation to the people who bought the property.
Deborah , 37920
August 17, 2026
On behalf of MyselfI own several properties in Knox County and don't appreciate the back door approach to changing people's zoning. You do this to AG, you can do it to anyone. I am submitting a request to halt further implementation of a draft on rezoning our agriculture until the consensus of land owners have a say in it. NOT DEVELOPERS!!
Kevin, 37920
August 17, 2026
I am aware rezoning has been temporarily halted for the next admin's input, but make no mistake, we DO NOT approve of changing Ag land to residential. I will not be an "exemption" that can be rescinded the moment I transfer property to my kids or refinance my mortgage. The public should be made aware that this proposal was rumored to have been pushed by D.R. Horton builders for the express purpose of eliminating any further required permitting/land use change/ public comment before constructing a subdivision... Much of the Ag zoning was mysteriously defaulted to RR, which allows 2 homes per acre. We had to opt out, rather than opt in—complete backdoor sneaky politics. Certainly not serving the people.
My questions: Who was the first person to make this proposal? Why did this begin in the first place? Who got paid to push this through? Why are you bent on eliminating farms in Knox County?
You can bet that my neighbors and I will be at every future planning commission meeting. The commission is on notice.
Stacy, 37932
August 13, 2026
This is ridiculous! Who elected these people, is theft not a crime anymore?
Dawn, 37922
August 13, 2026
I am strongly against the rezoning being led by Amy Brooks. Leave the farm land as it is. High density housing is not what Tennessee is about.
Marty & Rachel , 37721
August 12, 2026
We are blessed own a farm currently zoned Agricultural and it should remain so. We purchased it so we could get horses and donkeys but also because we did not want to see it turn residential and later possibly into another subdivision with a million houses. Little did we know our government is trying to do that without our permission. You DO NOT have our consent to change our zoning, as the legal owner of the property. It’s sad when the public finds out more from facebook than from their own government officials. Remember the reasons why we all love to live in America and in East TN. Stop taking away our farmlands!!!
Elizabeth, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of SelfThis is absolutely criminal. You should be ashamed at this land grab. I hope there is a class action lawsuit against all involved.
Barb, 37849
August 12, 2026
I am heartbroken to relocate to a County that would use this type of underhanded method to remove/reduce farmer’s rights on their land, especially without a mailed, written notice. I moved an entire family here to live in a rural area. They may wish to use the land as a small farm in the future and I will fight to the end to maintain the right to do that for my children & grandchildren. Each and every registered voter 8n my family is watching the Count6 Commissioners action on the matter very closely.
Toby, 37721
August 12, 2026
While I appreciate the farmers fighting to maintain AG zoning they're really not the main issue. Zoning laws aren't meant to protect the rights of the property owner. They're meant to protect the rights of the NEIGHBORS of the property owner. That's why all this talk of "you can still farm!!!" are moot. I'm not worried about being able to farm my 1 acre. I'm worried about my neighbor selling their 10+ acres to a developer and destroying the landscape of our neighborhood. We bought AG zoned land. SO DID THEY. If they want to change that then they should have to go through the process of getting it rezoned including public comment and review. The only reason they (and the developers pushing this UDO) would want to do so without the process is because they intend on abusing the system and destroying the rural character of our community.
Wendy , 37920
August 12, 2026
The proposed automatic rezoning rules are shameful and deeply concerning. The lack of transparency is especially troubling—I only learned about this last week through social media!
What is the purpose of these changes? Are they truly in the best interest of the community, or are they simply making things easier for developers and those with real estate interests?
The people deserve a voice in decisions that affect our neighborhoods and property. Please don't take that voice away. We need transparency, accountability, and a planning commission that represents the people—not special interests.
Julia, 37912
August 12, 2026
I don't appreciate the lack of communication about this, especially given the overall initiative apparently started in 2021. I also don't appreciate or support any initiative that restricts the rights of private property owners or their successors.
Questions I have -
1) As an affected property owner, why have I never received written notice of the proposed changes or opt-in form? I saw that there have been "public" meetings related to this, but I had no knowledge of them. Like many others, I only found out about this at all through social media. I was surprised to find my own property affected within the rezoning map.
2) What were the criteria for selection of the committee members and how do they stand to benefit from the updates? Their names are published, but if their cv's are public they aren't linked.
3) What is the cost vs expected benefit to taxpayers and how were these measured?
David, 37923
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Knoxville ResidentsThis entire thing is completely underhanded and self serving for one group. Real estate agents and developers.
I believe there is a disconnect between the commission and what the people actually want. What I have been reading keeps referencing being transparent in the change proposals. If the changes are as significant as they appear why would the county not send a notification letter to all the landowners giving them a heads up. Do not continue down this path. We do not need or want this.
Brittney, 37938
August 12, 2026
Stop taking our farmland. Quit doing everything behind closed doors and meetings when people have to work so they can’t be there to appeal this overtaking. We don’t want what Nashville has! This farm has been in my family for generations and I will stand and fight for it this is our land you should have no part in telling me what I can and can not do with it!!
Toby, 37721
August 12, 2026
This kind of development is going to drive quality people out of Knox county and replace them with houses that HOPEFULLY get filled. When the market collapsed it will devastate property prices due to a glut of housing supply.
Maximum density for rural residential should be a maximum of 1 house per acre. NO EXCEPTIONS. That is a reasonable standard that would allow for development without changing the character of the county.
People should have to opt in to the change not opt out.
Data centers do nothing to enhance our community and should come with major restrictions and tax burdens.
Margaret, 37920
August 12, 2026
My family has owned acreage in Knox county since 1802. It is beyond comprehension the county would change it from ag to residential without ANY direct contact with the property owners. If I wasn’t on Facebook, I wouldn’t know about it at all. This is just morally wrong.
William , 37871
August 12, 2026
On behalf of William WelchThis whole process is wrong, and snakes of corruption and deception.
How can the land that previously owners had to request to have zoning changed all of a sudden be automatically changed and then to keep it as it is, if your land is large enough by the new definition, to remain as Agricultural. Not only has the zoning changed but also the size of what is considered to be a mini farm has increased 5 fold. It's disgraceful.
This whole zoning action should be stopped and scrapped.
Laura, 37806
August 12, 2026
We are against the passing of the Unified Developed Ordinance. If the intent of the change is to offer property owners the ability to choose for themselves which of the three zones best reflects their property's use and the level of preservation they desire, then each owner should get to chose which level of zoning they want. I should be able to zone all my property agriculture residential, there should not be a blanket zone of 1 house per acre. We understand the need for affordable housing, but there are better ways to accomplish that. Thank you.
Nathan, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Knox County Farmers and ResidentsI oppose the rezoning of Knox County and taking away land from farmers and giving to developers.
Susan, 37918
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Susan WolfeI am against the UDO unilaterally rezoning all agricultural zoned land. This does not appear to be in the interest of the people of Knox County and only in the interest of real estate developers and the government. I do not understand why the public was not allowed more than 30 days notice on a subject that has far reaching and long terms implications. No No No!
Andrea, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MyselfI am writing to oppose the proposed rezoning effort to change Agriculture land to Rural Residential. I advocate for limiting development to a rate that aligns with community desires. I think there is a complete disconnect between elected officials and the majority of Knox County residents who are very concerned about the rate of development. I think developers should be held to a much higher standard than they currently are regarding water quality protection, land integrity, and minimizing adverse impacts to adjacent properties.
I advocate for greater protection for water and natural resources, more protection of open space and agricultural land, increased expectations for development to protect natural resources and the existing rural feel, increased incentives for infill development, increased application of smart growth principles to minimize sprawl, and better communication about policy changes. We need to keep outside interests and developers in line so that we can maintain the quality of life we enjoy in Knox County now and for generations to come. I also disapprove of relaxing the public comment requirements and terms related to development projects. Finally, I emailed the Advance Knox info email address several days ago asking the simple question of why are these zoning changes needed. I have yet to receive a response. It is not clear to me why these changes are needed.
Carol, 37938
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Samuel LeMay 6102 Thomas Weaver RdKeep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use, which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance.
Our property is a little over 2 acres and does not meet the new 2.5 acre minimum. This land was bought for the express purpose of having a food forest, which is in keeping with its agricultural zoning.
Mallory, 37938
August 12, 2026
I urge this board to extend the deadline for the opt in form. I was made aware of this rezoning via social media last week. The rezoning information is difficult to understand in a short period of time. This rezoning affects farmers and they deserve to have a better understanding of the impacts for their land, businesses, and family. It unacceptable that communication was not mailed to all home addresses that would have rezoning potential.
I recommend additional in person workshops or meetings in which residents can ask more questions. Thank you for listening and consideration of all comments listed on this page.
Jessica, 37932
August 12, 2026
The fact that the Knoxville-Knox County Planning Commission is made up almost entirely of developers and realtors (who have strong a financial interest in building and selling as many properties in the area as humanly possible, with no regard for the negative impact on our communities) should tell you everything you need to know about the true intentions of this group of self-serving, conscienceless crooks. You might as well call the “Advance Knox” initiative what it really is - “CASH Advance to Knox Developers.”
I will commend you all on one thing, though - you did successfully unite the entire county against a worthy cause. We all smell the same rat.
C. Frog, 37920
August 12, 2026
What we need in Knox County is MORE farms and MORE rural areas to be PRESERVED and PROTECTED. Changing zoning without notifying farmers and residents is NOT OK, especially when most of the deciding board is only interested in development. As a Knox County resident, I strongly oppose the advancement of this type of zoning change.
Ryan, 37918
August 12, 2026
This is an extremely disturbing process. I haven't heard anything about this which I can approve of. This is clearly a power grab in direct contradiction of what the voters have said they want in elections over and over. I expect this is being done precisely so elected politicians can pretend they have nothing to do with anything. This is a betrayal of the voters and standard rule of law. If you want to hand power over to the unelected, then what's the point in pretending elected officials mean anything? It's all as clean as the city mayor going around proper procedures to appoint a police chief who is now suspended for abuse of power and inappropriate behavior. This whole thing is a disgrace.
Heather, 37918
August 12, 2026
Knox County residents support our local farm lands and farmers. They should not have to opt out of rezoning that will directly affect them, especially given the way in which this rezoning process has been happening. Give the public and the farmers full disclosure of what is happening, what is being proposed, and allow them to opt in, if they choose. We do not want to lose our local farm lands and access to agriculture. Public meetings where locals can vocalize any concerns, ask questions, and get above-board, straight forward answers needs to be reinstated.
Holly, 37938
August 12, 2026
My concern is for our farmers. MOST of them do not know how to fill out an Opt Out/In Form much less figure this mess out. It is a shame that you all have NO CONSIDERATION for Farmers or anyone representing our Farmers on your board. Also, the small window of submitting the Opt In/Out form without any type of notification to the land owners should be illegal. Protect our farms and our land.
Lauren, 37932
August 12, 2026
The way this has all gone about is extremely wrong. Zoning changes of this magnitude need to be fully transparent and clearly communicated. They also must have public input. It is my sincerest hope that the planning commission listens to Knox County residents and their input before any permanent changes are made.
Denise, 37922
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Farmington/EbenezerWe want allowances for urban hobby farms, growing our own food, and opportunities to raise small chickens/ eggs. All is currently allowed under our current county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
BackRoomKnox, 37923
August 12, 2026
Data center regulations were in the last draft. Now they are gone, whether on purpose or by mistake, I don't know.
The new version sets the buffer to homes at just 100 feet. That is not enough. Go stand 100 feet from the Watt Road area data center and you will still feel it. Then walk to the rock easement. It is an easy walk. Bring ear protection.
You have to feel the heat. You have to feel the power hum. You have to feel the ground shake, even from 300 feet away. Only then can you write a rule that actually protects people.
And this is one of the smaller centers. It does not even use water, gas, or turbines. Those are worse.
A 100 foot buffer tells me nobody who wrote this rule has stood 300 feet from one of these buildings, let alone 100. The buffer needs to be at least 1000 feet from any home, and only in a heavy industrial area if over 15 MW.
Thank you for your work on this. Now it's time for the public to help hold this process accountable.
KATHY, 37721
August 12, 2026
On behalf of 013 138I moved back to Knox County with plans to retire here and create a small homestead. I specifically searched for and purchased 2.5 acres that was zoned agricultural because I wanted property where I could grow my own food, raise chickens and goats, and build a true homesteading lifestyle, eventually even keeping miniature farm animals for a small petting zoo for parties and photography.
Agricultural zoning wasn't an accident or something I discovered after buying the property. I chose this property because of it. I made my plans and invested my money based on the zoning and the rights that came with the property when I purchased it, specifically to support homesteading.
I do not believe it is fair to take those agricultural rights away simply because my property is 2.5 acres instead of 5 acres.
Small acreage does not mean homesteading isn't possible. You don't need five acres to have a garden, fruit trees, chickens, a few goats, or miniature farm animals. Small homesteads are part of what makes Knox County special, and people who intentionally purchased agriculturally zoned property for homesteading should not suddenly lose those rights because their property falls below an arbitrary acreage requirement.
I moved back to Knox County because I wanted this homesteading way of life. Please protect existing agricultural zoning and the rights of small-acreage property owners who purchased their land specifically for homesteading and agricultural use.
Ben , 37931
August 12, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use.
Heather, 37932
August 12, 2026
On behalf of selfPreserve agricultural use rights for smaller acreage parcels! My property is currently zoned Agricultural (2.41 acres) and is proposed to become RR under the draft 2. I want to raise a concern about small parcels like mine losing agricultural freedoms. Under current A zoning, my property can be used for livestock and general agricultural purposes without the acreage minimums that the draft AR and RP districts require. Since my 2.41 acre lot cannot qualify for either opt in district, I will be placed in RR by default, and I have not been able to find clear detail in the draft on what livestock rights RR actually preserves. Our family raises goats, chickens and other small livestock and we have a sizeable garden. Are we going to have to change our lifestyle to fit policies we didn't even get to vote on?? What about my children?? They are the 6th generation that have lived on this property. When they inherit it (cause I'm not selling), how will this affect them??
Amelia, 37919
August 12, 2026
This rezoning plan is counter to what our officials should be working to preserve: the beauty of Knox County’s agricultural lands and the right of farmers to farm and citizens to provide input on how our communities are developed. The underhanded maneuvering to disenfranchise landowners and the public in general by “sneaking” this plan in and making dissent as complicated as possible is alarming and unethical
Sam , 37923
August 12, 2026
There are major problems with the proposed UDO. The two major ones are:
1) Reduced flexibility for owners. The limitations on a lot of the outlying areas, many of which are zoned Ag, now to be labeled rural residential, will in the future severely limit the operation of hobby farms, self-sustainment, and small-scale commercial enterprises. These plots should not be rezoned, and the promises of grandfathering do not provide adequate protection. Landowners should be free to expand their operations or rebuild in the case of disaster, not be forced to give up what is rightfully theirs.
2) Limiting community input. The removal of comment/hearing periods for future development is a grave error, and heavily weights the future plans towards developers at the expense of homeowners and small parcel landowners. Especially with the growing nature of the area, we should be careful limiting oversight and reducing the ability of those impacted by large developments to provide their input. When new developments have the potential to cause negative impacts on others' property, they should be able to seek to stop the developments before they begin rather than fighting for compensation after the fact with the scales tipped against their favor.
Please do not implement this poor plan for the area. The future can be bright, but not if we sell out to special interests at the expense of the many individuals and families who call this home.
Jim,
August 12, 2026
See attached.
View AttachmentRyan, 37918
August 12, 2026
REQUEST FOR MORE PUBLIC REVIEW TIME
View AttachmentI respectfully request that Knox County extend the public review period for the proposed UDO and provide significantly more time between draft revisions.
These documents will affect the development rights, use and value of thousands of privately owned properties. The individual articles are lengthy, technical and interconnected, making meaningful professional and public review difficult within the current timeframe.
Knox County appropriately requires notice, public review and appeal periods when private citizens request land-use changes. A complete rewrite of the County's development regulations deserves at least the same level of careful review.
Please extend the comment period, provide additional in-person and virtual meetings, publish clear redlines between drafts, and allow adequate time for the public to understand and comment on each revision before this ordinance advances toward adoption.
Ty, 37919
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MyselfHaving carte blanche approval without review (on any property much less farm land) is detriment for all citizens of Knox county. I would hope that any of these large developments would have to prove infrastructure is in place or plans are there to accommodate these developments.
Instead of pushing development on greenfield sites why are we not focusing on redevelopment of existing? Mainly because infrastructure is already there for the most part.
When farmland gets developed it very rarely goes back. Not saying it’s not necessary for growth but growth needs to be regulated. Just drive around Knoxville and you can see that
Brandon, 37938
August 12, 2026
This is wrong. Our farm land should not automatically be changed to a zoning that allows up to 2 houses per acre. All this going to do is benefit the developers and destroy what is left our rural communities.
Marcee, 37938
August 12, 2026
Whether or not my residence is zoned Agricultural and is affected, the new automatic zoning proposal is unjust to those whose property will be affected without their input or approval. In addition, the non- conforming status should stay permanently with the land, not just the current owner! Why would/should a change in ownership automatically affect land usage without a review and citizen approval?
It seems the planning commission can't deal/ doesn't want to deal with land owners who vote on these issues. Why - $$$$. Who's on this commission? Realtors and developers who have an interest in the money making arena. I wonder how many are having multi family units built right next to/on top of their homes? Land owners should have the right to opt in, not out of, "your" proposed zoning changes. Why and how are you not hearing what land owners are telling you? Again, $$$$$.
Nicole, 37921
August 12, 2026
As a Knox County resident, I strongly oppose the proposed zoning changes that convert Ag to RR. Farmland and open spaces should remain protected by DEFAULT, not with a requirement that property owners opt in for preservation. And especially not without formal notice. It is unacceptable that the board/commission tried to slide this by our farming community, hopefully without noticing before the also unacceptable deadline.
While growth is inevitable, growth without limits is not a plan. Communities such as Karns and Powell have already experienced the consequences of rapid residential development, including massively increased traffic, strained infrastructure, overcrowded schools, and the loss of rural character. Residents bear the impact of this every day. Knox County does not need more sprawling high-density subdivisions at the expense of productive farmland. Existing ag land is not vacant land waiting to be developed. It is an important part of our county's identity, economy, and future. Once it is gone, it is gone forever.
Neighbors need MORE say at commission meetings, not less say with automatic approval for the highest allowed density. Neighbors have a right to be concerned about commercial zoning out of fear of what might be built. Sorry, Amy Brooks. This is my community, and it's pretty full already.
Protect our farmers. Save our farmland. Reverse the opt out and make it opt in.
Terry, 37721
August 12, 2026
This whole advance Knox seems self-serving to the committee. Most of them have interest in land development which causes major conflict of interest. The group needs to be evaluated and involve the courts in halting their actions! Nobody should have to file a form to keep their land useable and maintain their way of life. This is government at its worst
Jennifer , 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MyselfReverse the opt out and make it opt in. Leave the farm land as is. PLEASE slow down development and update infrastructure.
Robin, 37938
August 12, 2026
On behalf of SelfRezoning behind citizens back, it's not only deceitful, but something communists do! So, are you all that big of snowflakes that you're afraid of Townhall meetings with the citizens of this county??? I served in the military and took an oath to protect this country from ALL enemies, foreign and DOMESTIC! What you are doing behind our backs, and so deceitfully, makes you an enemy of land and home owners!! We moved out to Halls because it was quiet and not crowded. What you are doing is ruining our town.
Rachel, 37849
August 12, 2026
I attended several meetings during the planning phase for the Growth Plan. What stood out to me is that there were zero ordinary residents that spoke in favor of the proposed growth plan, only real estate agents and developers spoke in favor of the recommendations.
I came across a Facebook post on August 3rd that mentioned the proposed zoning changes in Draft 2. I own AGRICULTURAL property that was originally purchased by my Grandparents in 1953, and am a life-long Knox County resident. I received NO DIRECT NOTIFICATION that my property use was in jeopardy. I raise livestock. I have chickens, goats, sheep, and a garden. I've watched as development has pushed out farmers in my area and ruined the rural character of Powell. It seems that the goal is to push out ALL FARMS.
An appointed group intends to strip ALL property owners of the right to keep their current zoning, offering only "legal nonconformity" as an option to continue to use their property as they have. Legal nonconformity is no protection. If the property changes ownership, the nonconforming use goes with it. This decision won't necessarily affect my current personal use, but will certainly affect my children when they inherit the property.
My property is currently zoned Agricultural and it should remain so. You DO NOT have my consent to change my zoning, as the legal owner of the property. You didn't bother to ask me and you plan to take away the publics ability to speak out. The answer is NO!
D, 37849
August 12, 2026
The proposed automatic new zoning rules are shameful. The planning commission is unfortunately made up of people that have an interest in making money in real estate. The commission should be dissolved. Please do not take away the voice of the people.
Mary, 37918
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Self and familyYou want feedback? Here's mine as the 3rd generation in east Knox County on a family farm, in an ag zone:
No one should have to "opt-in" to keep their zoning the same. Period. If we currently live in an agricultural zone , then we shouldn't have to fill out an application to the county to stay that way. Every single knox county citizen is at the mercy of advance knox and the county's acceptance. We purchased property in an ag zone, and we expect it to stay that way!
This absolutely opens the doors from more development. It makes it easier for builders to put as many houses on a piece of land as they want without any pushback from commission, because the rules of the new zone say they can. So much government overreach lately.
Abolish this. No data centers, no rezoning the entire county, no overdevelopment....keep agriculture on the county seal and leave knox county citizens alone! Let the developers APPLY to change the zoning of the land they want, and keep allowing citizens to continue to discuss land use. Knox County does NOT belong to the developers. It belongs to the men and women who live here, own property here and grow families, farms and businesses here!
I vehemently oppose this broad rezoning.
Darin, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MaroniThis plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who moved to the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
We keep hearing that “protections are already in place” because PR zoning supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. Great—until you read the fine print allowing “clusters of homes” when terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” is developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram in here?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road: 161 houses, most on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots—smaller than lots I could build on inside Knoxville. We moved here expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision dropped in by a housing-development cannon.
We’re not against reasonable growth. We’re against destroying the rural character that brought people here in the first place.
WE SHOULD NOT LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT HAVING A VOICE IN THE PROCESS.
Albert, 37721
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MeSimple comment, people move to this county for what it has to offer and to escape the crowded feeling they moved away from. Don’t try to recreate that crowded congested feeling here, don’t sell the people out to developers who care nothing about the beauty East Tennessee has to offer or to try to make a quick buck. Thank you
Ps. Re think those data centers and pay attention to the negative impact they can cause to the environment.
Mark, 37920
August 12, 2026
I am writing to formally express my strong objection to the recent zoning effort and the manner in which these changes have been developed and advanced.
I am particularly concerned that these changes appear to have been undertaken without adequate notification to affected property owners. Changes to zoning can substantially affect a property owner's ability to use and develop their property.
I am also concerned about the composition and apparent priorities of the committee responsible for developing these plans. The process gives the appearance that the interests of developers and increased development have received greater consideration than the interests of existing property owners and the quality of life in our community. Whether or not that was the committee's intent, the lack of transparency creates a legitimate concern about potential conflicts of interest and whether the process has been sufficiently balanced.
I believe responsible growth should take into account more than development potential and economic interests. It should also consider existing residents, property rights, neighborhood character, infrastructure, traffic, public services, and the overall quality of life in the community.
I respectfully request that the zoning changes be reconsidered.
George, 37938
August 12, 2026
I’ll address the commenters here. Not the rat finks who are behind this sneaky back room deal in hopes that it flies under the radar without the communities knowledge.
I’ve seen people on here asking if they can maintain the right to continue their hobby farms. Are you really ASKING for PERMISSION to farm YOUR OWN LAND? Then is it in fact YOUR land?
If it is in fact our land, then we should not have to get on our knees and plead to do what we want on it. How can a person rezone your land if that land is in fact, yours? They can do it because you don’t own anything. That’s why they can do with it what they want.
Disagree? Try NOT PAYING your PROPERTY TAX and watch where that ownership goes. It won’t be yours anymore.
We’re all still under some illusion that we actually have ownership of our properties.
We’re under what now seems to be the illusion that power still belongs to the people. “They work for us!” DO THEY? Last I checked, the boss doesn’t have to approach the people that work for him for permission regarding anything.
They know this. They don’t give a hill of beans about this comment section.
Just like the DATA CENTERS, nobody wants them. With or WITHOUT your cooperation, they are getting what they want.
We the people are DIVIDED and we the people are FALLING.
Mentalities need MAJOR adjustment if we’re to make it through to the other side of the these upcoming tribulations. This is only the beginning.
Tiffany, 37914
August 12, 2026
It seems almost as if the government is trying to do away with farms that have been here for generations. The government wouldn’t do that though right? It may not happen overnight and that’s what they want to use to placate everyone. Down the line we will have more subdivisions and less of the farms that have provided food for us. This new zoning is taking away the livelihood of locals and the ability to feed the community. The government loves us though and wouldn’t want us crammed together like sardines with no way to feed or provide for ourselves, right?
Phillip, 37721
August 12, 2026
Leave the Ag Zoning alone. Let people opt in to the Rural Preservation, not the other way around. This all feels like a way to sneak in more development.
Darin , 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of Our familyThis plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who chose to live in the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
And please don’t tell us that “protections are already in place” because the current PR zoning designation supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. That sounds great—until you read the fine print. The current designation (or whatever shiny new version replaces it) still gives developers the ability to build “clusters of homes” when the terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” has become developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram onto this property?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road. It is currently being developed for 161 houses, with the majority sitting on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots. Let that sink in: lots smaller than what I can build on inside the city of Knoxville. We moved to the country expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision that looks like it was dropped here by a housing-development cannon.
We are not opposed to reasonable growth. We are opposed to destroying the very rural character that made people want to live here in the first place.
WE DO NOT WANT TO LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT AT LEAST HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOICE OUR OPINIONS.
If decisions are going to fundamentally change our community, then the people who actually live here deserve a seat at the table—not a front-row seat while the bulldozers do the talking.
Casie , 37921
August 12, 2026
On behalf of The farmersThis seems like a ridiculous thing to happen. We need our farmers and we need open land. That’s what Tennessee is all about. Please quit building houses. Please quit letting builders build where there is not space or traffic patterns to help us all get around safely. It makes me sad to even write this because it’s ridiculous behavior that seems to happening more and more. So sad. Just stop this please.
Robert , Knoxville tn
August 12, 2026
This is wrong, and everyone sitting on that board knows it. This is being rammed through in the most dishonest, crooked manner that I have ever seen, all at the expense of the farmers. It’s nothing more than a land grab for the developers that line the pockets of the local politicians. Every one of you should be ashamed of yourselves.
Darin , 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of My familyThis plan is simply not acceptable to those of us who chose to live in the country because we actually wanted to, you know, live in the country.
And please don’t tell us that “protections are already in place” because the current PR zoning designation supposedly limits development to two houses per acre. That sounds great—until you read the fine print. The current designation (or whatever shiny new version replaces it) still gives developers the ability to build “clusters of homes” when the terrain is deemed unfavorable.
Apparently, “unfavorable terrain” has become developer-speak for “How many houses can we cram onto this property?”
Just look at 8920 Picken Gap Road. It is currently being developed for 161 houses, with the majority sitting on roughly 4,000-square-foot lots. Let that sink in: lots smaller than what I can build on inside the city of Knoxville. We moved to the country expecting farmland, open space, and a rural way of life—not a subdivision that looks like it was dropped here by a housing-development cannon.
We are not opposed to reasonable growth. We are opposed to destroying the very rural character that made people want to live here in the first place.
WE DO NOT WANT TO LOSE OUR FARMLAND WITHOUT AT LEAST HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOICE OUR OPINIONS.
If decisions are going to fundamentally change our community, then the people who actually live here deserve a seat at the table—not a front-row seat while the bulldozers do the talking.
Anna, 37806
August 12, 2026
How can they pass such without informing the people it will effect. Farming isn't just a life style. This is how people get by. Some people hobby farm to help with the expensive for their family's and for large Farms its not only their jog but their family legacy. Their are family farms in the county for 100s of years and those family's take great pride in carrying it on how could it just be taken away like this so you can have condos or whatever.
David M , 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of David M RobertsThis commissions plan to do away with agricultural zoning and tweeting land owners to fill out a form and mail it in is ridiculous. Did you notify them of your intent before hand? Also, allowing developers to bypass the normal density approval process is repulsive. This commission seems to match in step with developers rather than resident property owners. This whole process smells of corruption and conflicts of interest. You all should be ashamed for such actions.
Susan, 37924
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MyselfI believe automatically rezoning all land currently zoned agricultural to a new Rural Residential zone is a grave error and this position should be reversed before the UDO is approved. Knox County needs more housing but residential areas and working farms are not the best neighbors, due to then noises and odors that often come from farms. Also this process hasn’t been the most transparent and to force people to opt in to an agricultural zoning when they may not even be aware this is happening is overreach at its worst.
Deanna, 37924 and 37721
August 12, 2026
These properties have been in my family and my late husband’s family for more than 100 years.
This attempt to take away my voice in how MY property is used now and in the future is nothing but Communism! The people who made this decision should be required to go and live under the Putin regime for a year to experience what they are pushing on Knox County citizens.
I want my 37721 property to remain Agricultural, no change, and people who suck up to politicians to stay out of my business.
Gena, 37931
August 12, 2026
On behalf of MeWe do not want a want Knoxville to become Califonia or Florida! Or anywhere else that is what made us so unique: we had farm land, city and county all in one! Please stop making us something we don’t want to feed your own pockets and cost people that have lived here their whole lives pay for it. Money is the root of all evil.
George, 37721
August 12, 2026
Removing residents’ right to have a meaningful say in development decisions affecting their neighborhoods and communities is fundamentally unfair. Greater public input, along with clearer and more timely notification of proposed changes, should have been provided before these decisions were finalized and implemented.
Maranda, 37934
August 12, 2026
It seems fairly evident to the majority of the community that the way this is and has been handled is OFF. The vast majority of Knoxville residents not only feel that the overdevelopment of our area has run rampant, but when you add this on top of everything else, it’s pretty clear that there is a bias on the planning commission, and you would have to blind to not see where the bias is leaning.
There should NEVER be a planning commission that is ruled by the developers, real estate and/or mortgage brokers (or FUNDED by them, either), since they are the ones who obviously have a vested interest in forcing these developments on us. There’s not even a question of conflict of interest, it is 1000% there in this case.
Farm land is VITAL, not only to our area, but to our country as a whole. Trying to slide in new regulations without anyone knowing doesn’t just give the look of impropriety, it OVERFLOWS with it. You have more than enough feedback from the community to see that there are some major issues with what you’re proposing, and I for one would love to see our local officials actually start LISTENING to what the community wants….not just listening to those that are lining their pockets.
H, 1776
August 12, 2026
On behalf of TreadingThis deal that is being drawn up without the full knowledge of the public is beyond unbelievable.
The overreach happening by the rat finks in this country is nauseating!
Being sneaky usually indicates you’re doing something WRONG and dishonorable.
And to think our very own would make deals that can and will later harm families and their inherited farmland. THEIR…LAND.
It is not for you to decide what we should be zoned under.
WHERE IS YOUR HONOR?!
Dom, 37914
August 12, 2026
It feels as once again as long as our great elite class get their pockets padded and their ego stroked it doesn’t matter what the little peasants of the community think.
As long as their family’s can escape the slop they dump on us what do they care.
Another day another disconnect between citizen and superior.
Marc, 37914
August 12, 2026
On behalf of East Knox CountyI understand the situation. The influx of new citizens requires change. What I do not understand is the total disregard of the property owners. To arbitrarily change zoning and land use standards on someone else's property is wrong. And there is no other way to view it. Agricultural property is an important facet of East Knox County and is foundational to who we are. This can not pass. I have yet to find anyone who agrees with it other than those who are involved in the process or have zero vested interest in this part of our County.
I spent 20 years of my career in city/County government and I understand the processes. I also know first hand how influence from developers fuels this type of thing. It is wrong. I have always been in defense of the planning commission and our city and county government. But not with this. It is wrong and this mess must stop. Now.
Bob, 37920
August 12, 2026
On behalf of South Doyle Neighborhood Association, Inc.At the August 4, 2026 monthly meeting of the South Doyle Neighborhood Association, members voted unanimously to adopt the following resolution:
"We feel the UDO Draft 2 zoning map showing zero Agricultural zoning and only two small areas of Rural Preservation zoning is contrary to the whole intent of Advance Knox to provide for proper planning, avoidance of sprawl, and preservation of Knox County's scenic quality. We ask that the Draft 1 zoning map be returned to. "
Bob Thompson, Secretary, South Doyle Neighborhood Association, Inc.
Patti, 37922
August 12, 2026
On behalf of SelfA required "Opt-in" appears to be a calculated move on behalf of the county to rezone rural farmland to residential for developer benefit.
Vicki, 37721
August 11, 2026
On behalf of MyselfThis should not be happening! These new zoning changes are a bunch of baloney! The second draft should not have been handled this way! I found out about it on FACEBOOK! (Not from my county leaders). It’s a shame that our leaders in Knox County have slipped this by the people they are supposed to be working for. The ONLY people this helps are land developers and realtors and others in that industry! If our elected leaders allow this to go through, they should be voted out of office! This is such a shame that farmers have been treated this way when we depend on them for so much!
Heather, 37922
August 11, 2026
I am formally registering my objection to the Advance Knox rezoning process due to significant deficiencies in public notice and procedural fairness. Knox County has undertaken a parcel-level rezoning without providing individualized notice to affected owners. No mailed letters were sent, and many residents only learned of these changes through social media. The absence of parcel-specific notification raises serious concerns about whether residents were afforded a meaningful opportunity to be heard, a core requirement of procedural due process under TN law and the 14th Amendment. The TSC has emphasized that notice must be reasonably calculated to inform affected parties and provide a genuine opportunity for participation. A countywide rezoning that materially alters permitted uses, density, and development standards, exceeds what most residents would reasonably expect to be handled through generalized public postings alone.
The County's reliance on website updates & social media announcements does not meet the spirit of TN's public-participation requirements, nor does it reflect best practices for transparent land-use governance. The lack of individualized notice is especially concerning given that Advance Knox proposes to replace lon-standing zoning categories with entirely new districts, materially affecting property rights without direct communication to those impacted.
Kenneth, 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of myselfI do not like and and do not believe this should be done. I have submitted the opt in form because I have to preserve my rights.
Steven, 37922
August 11, 2026
On behalf of selfI understand that our neighborhood (Wood Lake Acres) is at risk of losing our Agricultural (A) zoning. In no way do I want to lose the freedom that comes with the Agricultural zoning that exists today, and existed when all of us in Wood Lake Acres purchased our property.
Please let me know what I may do to prevent this from happening.
I'm ready to fight this with my time, talent, and treasure.
Sincerest Regards,
Steven Floyd
[redacted]
[redacted] Sandpiper Lane (Wood Lake Acres Subdivision)
Knoxville, TN 37922
Ricky, 37917
August 11, 2026
On behalf of All knoxville farmersLeave knoxville and knox county alone,we dont want to be a big city and we want local produce from our farmers.stop makin money for your selves and leave knoxville the way it is.if you want big city life move somewhere else.
Keith, 37922
August 11, 2026
I am currently 1 full acre with residence and Agricultural (A) zoning. I am opposed to the reclassification as Rural Residential and feel it would be detrimental to my property value in the marketplace.
OPPOSE!
Patti, 37922
August 11, 2026
On behalf of SelfI think it is shameful to require property owners to submit an opt-in request to potentially contest the rural residential designation. This appears disingenuous and ethically questionable.
The fact that the following language has been posted on the opt-in form, reads punitively.
“If you do not submit an opt-in request, any legal use under the current zoning would be allowed to legally continue”. All the while assuming owners are notified of the pending change and their opt-in request is approved? Could it be decision makers are simply hoping owners don’t submit or requests fall through the cracks? It looks that way.
Maria, 37938
August 11, 2026
We own two pieces of adjacent land in Halls: one at 1 acre and one at 2.67 acres. We want to remain autonomous in farming (chickens, ducks and turkeys) along with multiple spaces for organic vegetables and fruit. Anything that would jeopardize that is an absolute “no” for our family! I hope residents’ voices will be heard.
Renee, 37871
August 11, 2026
Rezoning all agricultural land to residential agriculture is the most ridiculous thing I’ve heard lately, and Knox county is constantly making ridiculous zoning changes. Keeping it a secret is disgusting. Not every piece of land needs to be destroyed by developers. DO BETTER.
Randall, 37920
August 11, 2026
How has this planning been going on for five years without any notice to the residents? We just found out about this because a neighbor came to our home and let us know. Every single resident that this could affect should have been notified by mail. It sure feels like they were trying to sneak this through, have a default to move us from AG and not even inform us.
One of our neighborhood roads (Artella) has not been paved in well over 60 years. All we get is patches. Let’s take care of what we already have before throwing in new houses and apartments everywhere.
Gay, 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of MortonThe lack of transparency concerning these zoning changes is a huge problem. I became aware of this on social media. This method of doing business is not available to eveyrone and is very difficult and discriminatory for older land owner. I request that the peropd of time available for public comments be extended. Has MPC has dropped the ball and become too "friendly" with developers. It certianly appears that way. In my part of the county the roads and schools haved not been upgraded to handle the traffic. I have other concerns regarding the changes in regulation regarding data centers.
I am extremely disappointed in the mayor and elected representatives. This is clearly government overreach.
Brian , 37938
August 11, 2026
On behalf of Lucky Dog FarmThe lack of transparency is a huge concern. I learned about this last week, on social media! Secondly, what is the purpose of such changes? Easier for developers? I appreciate the county needing to grow, honestly, Knox county is a great place to live. However, the MPC has dropped the ball and become too "friendly" with developers. Developments are approved but often the roads do not get updated to handle the traffic. The MPC has more Knoxville City representation than Knox County representation, which leads to poor planning and decision making for county residents.
Most important, I need more information (and easier to find) on the different zonings. In order to make an informed decision (forced choice), I need to know the differences. I am extremely disappointed in the mayor and elected representatives. This process needed more public attention. None of the farmers or rural land owners asked for this. This is clearly government overreach.
Gary, 37938
August 11, 2026
This is wrong! Everything about it. Do not touch our farmlands or tell us what to do with our own land!
Keela, 37938
August 11, 2026
A very strong NO from me. This is so shady and a disgusting over-reach from our “government”. Our land should not have be re-zoned without a say from the actual land owners! No one got any notification about this at all! No wonder there is zero trust left in our elected officials! We need to protect our farmers and their farmlands for generations to come.
Mary, 37931
August 11, 2026
Please protect farmland in and around Knoxville. The rampant overdevelopment that's been allowed to occur for the past several years must end, as it's made life stressful, the landscape hideous, and traffic dangerous. It's also displaced countless numbers of native species, all in the name of incentivizing people from all over the world, let alone the country, to move here. If Knoxville's goal is to make life horrible, then they're definitely succeeding.
Kristen, 37920
August 11, 2026
I am against the proposed Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) changes including the shift of agricultural land to the Rural Residential classification, and the way this is being gone about is very shady.
David, 37920
August 11, 2026
I believe there is a disconnect between what is being published and what is being done. What I have been reading keeps referencing being transparent in the change proposals. Even though this has been in the works for a while the first I heard of it was through a neighbors post on Facebook last week. If the changes are as significant as they appear why would the county not send a notification letter to all the landowners giving then a heads up and a list of upcoming meetings where this would be discussed.
I have a farm that has been in our family since 1823 and raise livestock on it. From what I have read automatically changing it to RR zoning would give up some legal protections Tennessee provides AG properties. It is still murky and the details seem to be changing under the "proposal". One source says AG requires 15 acres, another says 5 and in one place it talked about 1 acre lots. The details need to be defined and published.
Katie, 37922
August 11, 2026
Please keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Gwyn, 37920
August 11, 2026
Whoa, Knox county you need to slow down. I am opposed to the redistricting. I don't think you are being very responsible with the infrastructures to support all the residential units that are being built. The city floods every time it's rains.
We are losing our ability to farm and support ourselves while you are only looking at a couple of years, what happens in the next 20 years when all of our food is being shipped to China and other foreign countries we'll be forced to eat the lab created foods. It's the same as giving weapons and ammunition to other countries that are eager to destroy us but taking away our rights to protect ourselves.
And then you want to build AI centers that take away our water and electricity. WTH people! Enough is enough!!! I'm opposed to any redistricting until you can fix what is broken already.
Mary, 37922
August 11, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Romany, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Khloe, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family, host a local farm stands, and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Farmington Subdivision (and other Knoxville neighborhoods) is currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance - please keep it that way!!
Matt, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. Moreover, add language that explicitly protects these practices/hobbies so that they can't be arbitrarily stripped in the future through a different interpretation.
Kelly, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Aubrey, 37932
August 10, 2026
The re-zoning should be an opt IN instead of opt OUT situation. In general, I find it completely unnecessary. Who benefits from this change? Because farmers certainly will not benefit from a more restrictive land use. Just scrap this entire bill.
Drue, 37921
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for neighborhoods currently R1 planned to change to N1
Michala, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family, collect rain water, & raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision!
Ashley, 37921
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for neighborhoods currently R1 planned to change to N1
Vanessa, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of FarmingtonKeep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. Our lots are large enough to have multiple gardens and raise chickens, etc. and still be beautiful.
Jamie, 37922
August 10, 2026
Allowing family gardens hobby gardening and small hobby farming such as backyard chickens needs to be allowed in any rezoning that imapacts our residential land. Thank you!
Blaine, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Andrew, waheguru99@yahoo.com
August 10, 2026
On behalf of WynnThe Knoxville Urban Wilderness is roughly 1,000 acres assembled over two decades by the City, County, Ijams, TWRA, and Legacy Parks. Those protected properties form a ring, and the interior is unincorporated private land that Draft Map 2 converts almost entirely to Rural Residential. That interior is the connective tissue of the system. The protected parcels are not contiguous, so movement between them crosses this land, and a break at one point costs the function of everything that depended on passing through. Subdividing it would not reduce the acreage the public holds, only what that acreage does, which is the return on twenty years of public investment. Much of the area is designated Rural Conservation in the adopted Comprehensive Plan, which requires 50 to 70 percent of a site be conserved as open space; Rural Residential has no such mechanism and cannot implement it. Nothing on Draft Map 2 shows the protected ring, so that context is absent from the data. I ask that Planning evaluate this pocket as a unit and consider a conservation overlay governing site disturbance, clearing, stream buffers, and lighting, leaving every owner's uses and density intact.
Daniel, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of SelfAs an owner of over a dozen egg laying female chickens (hens) in our .33 acre lot these proposals cause me serious concern. I have been a proud owner of property the Farmington Subdivision since 2012 and greatly appreciate the freedoms allowed in our neighborhood as multiple property owners have their own verdant and large backyard vegetable gardens and flocks of chickens and bee hives. This proposal does not provide for any of these agricultural rights for those with less than one acre. It greatly upsets me that efforts like these reduce the in fee simple ownership and property rights of average American families. How long before the WWII encouraged back and front yard "Victory Garden" becomes an illegal or impermissible choice for property owners? I am disappointed and concerned that these proposals are going to make more consumers and fewer producers of agricultural products.
Florentina, 37922
August 10, 2026
Please, keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Florence, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision where I live and own my home.
Ruth, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Farmington Neighborhood Ebenezer RdWe want allowances for urban hobby farms, growing our own food, and opportunities to raise small chickens/ eggs. All is currently allowed under our current county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision.
Jaime, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Jaime Dailey, Farmington rezoningI live in the Farmington subdivision and concerned with rezoning. I have a large lot, often grow a garden, and am concerned the new zoning with prohibit that when there is no reason for Knox county to limit our ability to grow more than a flower bed for landscaping.
Brandi, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision. All citizens should have the right to grow food on their land and keep bacyard poultry. No one wants lab grown products. We are awake and want more control over our own food supply. KEEP ZOING THE SAME
Stephanie, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Farmington neighborhoodKeep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Rachel, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of 1912 Penwood dr-FarmingtonKeep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
First we had two people claiming to be president and vice president of a "mandatory HOA" trying to tell us what to do. They took our money and got offended when we asked questions about where the money went, why they weren't holding meetings or voting for officers. After I talked to the mayor and found out it was all being done illegally and they changed themselves to a voluntary HOA we still will loose our ability to grow food from personal gardens or have our chickens?
Please, NO! We dont want this new rezoning!!!
Shalina, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Jenniffer, 37922
August 10, 2026
On behalf of My selfKeep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non commercial use. Which are currently allowed under our county zoned ordinance for Farmington Subdivision
Lisa, 37922
August 10, 2026
Keep allowances for urban hobby farms so residents can grow their food for family and raise small chickens and eggs for non-commercial use which are currently allowed under the current zoning for the Farmington Subdivision
Laura, 37922
August 10, 2026
Please do not rezone the Farmington subdivision off of Ebenezer. Many of us have large lots, vegetable gardens, and small backyard chicken coops. It is completely unfair to just change the zone we are in when many of us bought property here specifically for the large lots and less restrictions, and cannot afford to relocate under the current interest rates. We should not have to give up our backyard hobbies because someone else decided we should be re-zoned.
Kyle, 37914
August 10, 2026
On behalf of Dorothy Kyle Nahrebne (legal name)I do not agree with the change from agriculture to agricultural living in my zip code. Residents did not request to be moved to agricultural living which could limit property size for next generation owners. Many of us have or plan to have farms here. I own 11 acres. We ask you reconsider zoning this area between Strawberry Plains Pike and Thorngrove Pike, at a minimum, to be Agricultural Preservation to protect the land we own from over development in the future.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
The areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
The areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects. Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Elena, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
View AttachmentArticle 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
Article 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but Knox County’s infrastructure must keep pace with development. Roads and intersections in many existing neighborhoods are already congested and difficult to safely enter and exit, while schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services are also affected by continued growth.
View AttachmentArticle 18 should include an enforceable requirement that infrastructure capacity be evaluated before additional development is approved. That evaluation should consider the cumulative impact of existing development, projects already approved, and proposed development—not each project in isolation.
If roads, intersections, schools, drainage, or emergency services do not have adequate capacity, the necessary improvements should be funded and completed before or concurrently with additional development. Developers should also contribute an appropriate share of infrastructure improvements required by their projects.
Growth and infrastructure should occur together, rather than approving development first and attempting to correct infrastructure deficiencies later.
Kimberly, 37931
August 10, 2026
I support responsible growth, but I am concerned that the proposed zoning changes may increase residential development capacity without requiring infrastructure to keep pace.
View AttachmentThe areas around Wickam Road and Wiebelo Road already experience significant traffic, unsafe neighborhood exits, congestion, and roads that were not designed for the current level of growth. Schools and other public infrastructure have also struggled to keep pace.
Before increasing density or allowing smaller residential lots, Knox County should require an objective analysis showing that roads, intersections, schools, stormwater systems, and emergency services can support the cumulative impact of existing, approved, and future development.
Development should not be evaluated one project at a time while ignoring the combined impact of multiple developments using the same roads and schools. Infrastructure improvements should be funded and completed before, or concurrently with, additional development, and developers should contribute an appropriate share of those costs.
Growth and infrastructure need to occur together. Please do not increase development capacity in already strained areas without enforceable infrastructure-capacity and safety requirements.
Erin, 37849
August 9, 2026
SAVE OUR FARMS, SAVE AGRICULTURAL LAND
The goal is to preserve the disappearing farms and agricultural land. Automatically changing all agricultural land to new zoning and NOT allowing rural residential zoning to stay rural does not serve this goal.
DO NOT implement the current scheme. Knox County residents DO NOT want this to happen. SERVE THE PUBLIC
Kathy, 37721
August 8, 2026
On behalf of Parcel 013 138Parcel 013 138 is approximately 2.5 acres, currently Agricultural and proposed RR. I want to preserve my ability to use the property for small-scale agriculture, including fruit trees, gardens, poultry/livestock, greenhouse plant propagation and sale of plants grown on the property. I also plan a 60'x48', 16' high building with a 60'x24' residence and 60'x24' shop while keeping my existing home. Please confirm RR permits these uses. Because my property is too small for proposed AR/RP minimum acreage, I am concerned small agricultural properties may lose important agricultural and development rights under RR.
Marcie, 37938
August 7, 2026
We need to know what the difference in rural agg and rural preservation is. How do we know what we want to ask if we don’t know the rules? We have aprox 7 Acers in Knoxville That join aprox 7 Acers in Union county. I was in the process of figuring out how to ask the counties to talk and greenbelt me. It is over 15 total. So now how does that go?
David, 37931
August 7, 2026
1. Confirm and clarify, in writing within the RR district standards, that "Agriculture" (including keeping livestock for personal, non commercial use) remains a permitted, by right use in RR, not a conditional use requiring a permit.
2. Publish the specific livestock or animal unit density standards proposed for RR so property owners like me can understand what we’re losing or keeping before the ordinance is finalized, not after.
3. Rather than lowering the acreage minimums for AR or RP, which exist to protect larger working farms, consider creating a new, smaller acreage tier (for example, 1 to 5 acres) specifically for hobby farming. This would give small parcels that have historically operated under Agricultural zoning a clearer, guaranteed set of agricultural rights than RR provides, without requiring the 15 acre or 5 acre minimums built for larger farm operations.
Small acreage properties that have historically operated under Agricultural zoning should not lose that flexibility simply due to lot size, especially when the stated intent of RR explicitly includes "hobby farming." I’d like to see that intent backed by clear, guaranteed standards rather than left ambiguous in this draft.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dave
[redacted] Couch Mill Rd, Knoxville, TN 37931
Kevin, 37920
August 7, 2026
I support RP–Rural Preservation zoning, but the final UDO should expressly allow Rural Retreats to operate with agriculture, agritourism, livestock, and agricultural structures.
View AttachmentThe current draft creates a conflict. Agriculture, agritourism, and Rural Retreat are permitted in RP, but the Rural Retreat definition excludes “a farm engaged in agriculture as defined by state law.” The one-principal-use limitation could also force owners to choose between rural lodging and raising sheep, cattle, donkeys, chickens, or other farm animals.
Please revise the UDO to: (1) allow agriculture, agritourism, customary livestock, pastures, and agricultural structures with a Rural Retreat; (2) allow multiple cabins on one parcel to collectively constitute one Rural Retreat; (3) allow Rural Retreat, agriculture, agritourism, and an approved Event Venue to coexist on the same RP parcel; and (4) treat livestock barns, fencing, shelters, and feed-storage buildings as agricultural structures rather than separate principal uses.
Suggested definition: “Rural Retreat: A facility providing rural lodging, recreation, conferences, banquets, meetings, or events. It may include multiple lodging structures on one parcel. Agriculture, agritourism, customary livestock, pasture, and agricultural structures may operate with a Rural Retreat.”
These compatible uses preserve rural character, maintain open land, support working farms, and strengthen rural businesses.
Michele, 37721
August 6, 2026
Make no mistake, changing Knox County's zoning code like this is a serious overhaul. Expecting local agricultural landowners to immediately grasp complex policy shifts and forcing us onto a tight timeline to submit "opt-in" requests just to preserve standard agricultural protection is unreasonable and rushed.
The burden shouldn't be placed entirely on farmers to figure out if their properties are being quietly defaulted into "Rural Residential" status and classified as nonconforming. The rural community is very upset with how this is being handled. Knoxville and Knox County leadership need to slow down, engage transparently, and extend the review process. Pissing off the local farming community isn't just bad polic, it's bad for the county's future
David, 37920
August 6, 2026
I own Parcel 159-034.04 on Martin Mill Pike. My adjacent neighbor, Parcel 159-033 on Rhea Road, is designated Rural Living on the Future Land Use Map, as is my property. However, my parcel is proposed as Rural Preservation (RP) while the adjacent parcel is proposed Agricultural Residential (AR). Please explain the planning rationale for assigning different zoning districts to adjacent parcels with the same Future Land Use designation and identify the differences in residential density and subdivision potential between the two proposed districts.
Ariel, 37917
August 5, 2026
Is there a reason why the option for property owners zoned Rural Residential (RR) or Rural Preservation (RP) have to opt IN for Agricultural District instead of an opt OUT? It just seems that the preservation of agricultural spaces/ slowing development has been at the forefront of the conversation. Changing this small detail might have a great impact in the ease of preserving these spaces.
Dan, 37920
August 4, 2026
A last minute trick to rezone all AG land to rural residential with less than 30 days notice, no guidance to property owners, and no real attempts at notifications is unacceptable.
Lindsay, 37918
August 4, 2026
I am curious to know if changing the zoning designation from Agricultural to Rural Residential will change the tax rate for a property?
Victor,
July 27, 2026
Subject: Comment on Draft UDO Zoning Map – 820, 826, and 0 Canton Hollow Road (Case No. 7-G-17-RZ).
View AttachmentPlease see attachment.
Tanya , 37924
July 13, 2026
East Knox County has around 1100 new apartments, condos, or houses that have been built or are in the process. We don't want to be the Corridor for development!!! We do not have the infrastructure to support everything that is already being put out here. We have one grocery store, the traffic is horrible, the schools are full, and Strawplains Pike near the elementary school is a HORRIBLE location for any subdivisions. Saying that kids can walk to school there is outrageous and dangerous! Developments should not be approved on areas that are supposed to be Hillside/Ridgetop Protection and when there are creeks, wetlands, and stormwater concerns. If this is what it is then your map makes no sense and there aren't REAL protections in place. Also tired of stuff getting approved just because developers and commissioners want to use the word "affordable" to get what they want then when things are built they are in no way affordable, but are just pushed through that way so the developers and the commission get what they want and the people that live in the communities are the ones that have to deal with more houses, more traffic, and more constraints on everything for houses the community can't even afford and do not want. Also tired of them saying we have a housing shortage. WE DO NOT have a housing shortage we have expensive apartments sitting empty and for lease signs everywhere all over town. Give us a break enough is enough and stop trying to make money off of our community!!!
Ellen, 37924
June 22, 2026
On behalf of The MonroesWe are highly opposed to any data centers being built in and/or around Knox County due to the negative environmental impact. The addition of data centers would not have a positive impact to any of our community members and instead would be a health hazard.
Sheena, 37932
June 22, 2026
Our family is opposed to any data centers being built in the Knoxville area. Data centers can have a significant negative impact on the environment because they consume enormous amounts of electricity to power servers and keep them cool, often relying on energy generated from fossil fuels. They also require large quantities of water for cooling systems, which can strain local water supplies, especially in drought-prone areas. In addition, building and expanding data centers uses vast amounts of land and raw materials, contributing to habitat loss and increased carbon emissions. These environmental concerns continue to become more significant and should be taken seriously.
Brittany, 37748
June 22, 2026
I don’t think Knoxville needs data centers. They take up a ton of land and resources, and the tradeoffs just don’t seem worth it for the community long-term. Before we start bringing in projects like this, we should be focusing on things that actually benefit the people who live here day to day.
Madison , 37931
June 21, 2026
Regarding the discussion around data center it's already been proven that data centers are detrimental to the environment I don't know why we're entertaining destroying Knoxville like this.
John, 37932
June 20, 2026
I just want to express my opinion against any data centers in Knox county.
Natalie , 37932
June 20, 2026
In my opinion we have enough AI data centers already we don't need more. I am not in favor of a data centers being built as it uses to much electricity and would cause harm to environments surrounding it.
Joanne, 37919
June 19, 2026
I don’t approve Data Centers in our area. We don’t want or need them. There is too much corruption and not enough environmental protection against impacts to our area.
Lauren, 37932
June 19, 2026
I implore the county commissioners to fully ban all data centers in Knox County. The data centers have been proven to be harmful to the health of human and animal residents. The noise pollution, light pollution, strain on power grids, unreal water consumption would be disastrous for Knox County residents and environment. These data centers are so new that the full scope of their effects is not fully known yet, and therefore, none should be built in Knox County.
Cathy, 37924
June 19, 2026
On behalf of AtkinsAttention Neighbors A developer wants to rezone 13.64 acres now on Strawberry Plains Pike in our neighborhood. This land is under the Rural Conservation Zone and they want to change it to Planned Residential. They want to change the land use from 1 house per acre to 5 per acre. That's about 68 new houses that they want to drop in the middle surrounded by single family homes. Many of the homes are 3rd & 4th generation landowners. This area in front of the property has a history of car wrecks. It is out of character and will destroy the planning to protect the land uses of this area. This property is hillside protected, has 2 creeks and a spring on it. It also has a wetland in front of Strawberry Plains Pike. The lay of this land is a huge hill that has a 150 foot TVA easement running right down the middle of it. This developer wants to have it rezoned without doing any of the studies concerning the use of this site. He wants a blanket ok to do whatever he can to our neighborhood from the rezoning.
https://knoxplanning.org/cases/7-F-26-RZ#request
https://www.ipetitions.com/p/petition-is-against-the-development-of-0-strawberry-plains-pike-knoxville-tn-37924-near-carter-elementary-and-mccubbins-road-rezoning-7-f-26-rz/
Kevin, 37918
June 17, 2026
On behalf of Knox Community Planning AllianceWill the Planned Development concept be carried forward into the UDO? We hope so. There are some creative projects that we hope will be used in Knox County that may not fit squarely into the zones. The Planned Development process was well thought through and provides a pressure relief valve for projects that might be a square peg trying to fit through a round hole. It provides a way to consider and approve those projects with sufficient review and public involvement and oversight.
Richard, 37924
June 10, 2026
On behalf of selfThe following are my comments and questions regarding data center and/or large sources:
1. land use, loss of land need for other usage - agriculture, industrial , commercial, residential
2. traffic both from construction and operation
3. power use generation on or off site, fuels
impact on current grid or grids
type of engines or combustion emissions, criteria and toxic
4. transmission lines require power from 2 or more grids
5. require roof solar panels
6 the need for the data center
7. stormwater runoff and return to groundwater
future floods
8. water usage
9. waste materials and disposal from construction and operations
10. noise
11. emissions criteria, toxic odors
12. health risk assessment
13. environmental impact statements
14. visual impact of the building, should it blend with the local ecosystem
15. thermal pollution, waste heat output. steam from cooling towers have a smell.
16. other items to be named.
James, 37923-1803
June 1, 2026
With KUB and TVA CONTINUALLY asking residents to “adjust thermostats” to reduce power consumption during days of extreme hot/cold temperatures, and also performing sporadic brownouts during periods of high power usage, HOW can they justify even potentially adding AI data center(s) to an already stressed and inadequate grid system when these entities have been PROVEN to consume extreme amounts of power on a DAILY basis?
Due to medical equipment reasons that require dependable power to be continually delivered to my residence, this has me truly concerned.
Until more nuclear power is brought on board, I see no way for the area's current power/grid structure to be able to handle a power drain that any sort of data center would require.
John, 37938
May 28, 2026
What are we doing...??? Way too many zones...the resulting map looks like a jig-saw puzzle...that's not good for anyone and will only lead to confusion and strife for and between Planners, citizens, developers and everyone. We need clear and concise zones.
Also, there are current PR-zoned properties that are designated as Rural Residential...which requires 100'-wide lots? How is that going to make housing more affordable, when that will cost way more money. Why so many designations...AG, Open Space, Rural Residential, Rural Preservation...you're overly complicating matter...one zone would suffice for all of those.
Leah, 37920
May 27, 2026
I ask that you please do everything in your power to prevent any data centers being built in Knoxville. TVA has already had grid issues multiple summers that has required them to ask Knoxville residents to limit our residential use. We do not have the electric capacity to sustain a data center.
Not even going to go into the other huge issue of water use and global warming..
Best Regards,
Leah
Knoxville, TN 37920
Keoni, 37920
May 27, 2026
I ask that you please do everything in your power to prevent any data centers being built in Knoxville. TVA has already had grid issues multiple summers that has required them to ask Knoxville residents to limit our residential use. We do not have the electric capacity to sustain a data center.
Not even going to go into the other huge issue of water use and global warming..
Best Regards,
Keoni
Knoxville, TN 37920
Tarah, 37763
May 22, 2026
On behalf of Data centersWe do not want data centers he they do not provide anything good to the community please look at what’s best for us instead of what brings in more money!
Denise, 37918
May 22, 2026
I am here to voice my objection that any land in Knox county be used for a data center greater than 30 MW—which is the high end for an enterprise data center. I am absolutely opposed to the colossal size data centers such as those being built in the Memphis area! Knox county should build regulations that completely prohibit ANY land used for such data centers greater than 30 MW! Thank you!
Kevin,
April 20, 2026
One note: the zoning ordinance, or the comprehensive plan, will need to define what zoning districts are consistent with the PlaceTypes.If this isn't done, then the Growth Plan 4.2 statement is impossible to interpret or enforce4.2 Rezonings within the Rural area shall be limited to zoning districts that are consistent with the following placetypes: Rural Crossroads, Rural Conservation, and Rural Living and be consistent with the adopted comprehensive land use and transportation plan. (See placetypes in Appendix).
Joyce, 37919
April 6, 2026
Regarding the issue of connectivity for NR-1 and NR-2 districts, the proposed language states "interconnectivity between developments is encouraged". This language is not strong enough and will simply be ignored. Connectivity should be required between adjacent developments unless extenuating circumstances make it impossible to achieve.
Michael, 37721
April 6, 2026
On behalf of ThorsonWe have seen how lives have changed in Farragut, please slow this growth.. As a NE Knox county resident (Corryton), we live in what is truly a rural community, and rest assured every tax-paying voter living there, likes it that way. I am aware developers are basically going door to door to buy any parcel of land over 5 acres, but you do NOT have to let them get their way and obliterate yet another rural community. This is almost one of the last areas that is actually rural, let's please keep it this way.
Worth mentioning, Washington Pike you cannot widen, between the school, the train tracks, the grave yards, there is zero way to widen it to accommodate more traffic. Even Washington Pike and this initiative aside, you can widen rural roads to accommodate (and ruin) more traffic and pat yourself on the back for being proactive, but the 40 and especially the 40 to 75 are parking lots and only getting worse by the day and no way to do anything. Life her is tolerable, this planned growth is going to make it miserable.
I know when asked politicians will say "we have to grow to reduce the cost of housing" which in a hot market, is everything but the truth and everyone knows it. There is no benefit to any of this for any existing tax-paying voters, you are just ruining our quality of life. The only people that will benefit from this are the developers and the politicians they are working with. I hope everyone remembers this when it is their time to vote.
Suzie, 37920
April 3, 2026
At Monday night's meet I am hopeful that our 3 Ag designations are passed as shown. Look at the 2814 Tipton Station /Schubert property. You will see that its zoning is far out of character with the plan. UDO and PLANNING folks know and request it be changed to keep the potential use and to be consistent with everything else in the community.
Ronnie , 37922
April 1, 2026
Regarding parking for commercial businesses, am I correctly discerning that there will be no front street parking? If so, after 15 years as a retail store owner, this would be disastrous for walk in traffic. People will drive by and seeing no visible parking available will say forget it. This concept is a major detriment already for our downtown businesses.
Amy, 37931
April 1, 2026
On behalf of Carter Cove SubdivisionI was so confused as to the Heavy Industrial zoning off Schaud an Bakertown and Ball Road. We all expected retail and light industrial but the amount of residential that is going into the area I question the Heavy Industrial.
Wilma, 37938
March 31, 2026
On behalf of Bull Run Valley/VAlley Dream FarmThe MPC should NOT be rezoning agricultural land into commercial or industrial.
We have very little natural land left as much of Knox County has been developed in a willy nilly way without taking into consideration, widespread traffic, existing infrastructure etc.........TVA is maxxed out on electricity......local utilities are maxxed out on clean water production.....the air is becoming more and more polluted.
In addition, our County, Knox is more than a BILLION dollars in debt. it is time to step back and think about the taxpayers/citizens of this county......not the special interests of developers, real estate agents and lawyers........every professional in our County should be embarrassed over this state of our County. I hope the citizens of Knox County will step up and demand that a plan that contemplates rezoning the little of agriculture land left in Knox County is totally retooled.
Developers at this point should be redeveloping in blighted areas and not hurting the quality of life of our citizens through plans like this one. I am totally against this plan proceeding. Wilma J.
John, 37922
March 29, 2026
On behalf of John SteinbergerI don't want to see all of the yellow region on the map converted into 5-homes-per-acre subdivisions. It would not be in character for the existing communities. Also, Choto and other existing largely rural communities need more retail. Choto does not have a grocery store. People have to drive to Farragut to buy food.
Joyce, 37919
March 11, 2026
Will you be recommending regulations for short-term rentals? There should be a permitting process and the applicant should sign an affidavit testifying that all information submitted in the application is accurate. An application fee that covers the County's cost of regulation should be required. STRs in residential districts should be owner-occupied. STRs reduce the available housing stock for long-term residents and often cause problems for surrounding neighbors.
Kevin,
March 9, 2026
On Behalf Of: Knox County Farm Bureau Board of Directors
In v2 of the proposed Use Definition, the use definition of "agriculture" is not broad enough. It refers to crops or livestock. Agriculture, as defined in Tennessee code 1-3-105 (2) includes farm products and nursery stock. "Farm Products" means forage and sod crops; grains and feed crops; dairy and dairy products; poultry and poultry products; livestock, including breeding and grazing; fruits; vegetables; flowers; seeds; grasses; forestry products; fish and other aquatic animals used for food; bees; equine; and all other plants and animals that produce food, feed, fiber or fur
The term "nursery stock" means all trees, shrubs, or other plants, or parts of such trees, shrubs or other plants, grown or kept for, or capable of, propagation, distribution or sale on a commercial basis.
Specifically, Knox County Farm Bureau calls out that the proposed definition of agriculture depends on the word "crops" - a term which is not defined. We urge you to define "crops" similarly to "farm products" in TCA. We also urge you to include nursery stock. We are especially concerned about the omission of forestry products from the proposed use definition of Agriculture.
Martin , 37909
March 8, 2026
On behalf of selfHello, with regard to the sign regulations in the county, I encourage the commission to remain business friendly and to generally incorporate the sign regulations set forth in Section 3.90 of the current zoning ordinance. I would, however, suggest allowing digital signs (referred to as "EMCs" in the current ordinance) up to 200 s.f. when a sign is oriented towards the interstate highway. The 60 second hold time should be reduced to 10 seconds as there has been shown to be no measurable distraction for digital signs that have a hold time in that duration.
Thank you.
Cindy, 37922
February 26, 2026
A comment and a question:
The beauty of our area and water quality are devastated by development of our ridgetops. Hardin Valley and Lovell Rd areas of Pellissippi Parkway are sickening examples. Please protect our ridgetops.
Will this plan address short-term lodging without breakfast or an on-site owner/manager?
Thanks!
Jason,
February 11, 2026
Please see attached...
View AttachmentJosh,
February 11, 2026
I wanted to share a short memo and example scenario for your review that introduces a potential Development Rights Transfer Ordinance for Knox County.
View AttachmentThis is intended to start a conversation around a voluntary, property-rights-based tool that could help guide growth toward appropriate areas while giving landowners additional flexibility. The attached memo outlines the concept, along with a simple example to show how it could work in practice.
I would welcome feedback and am happy to discuss or answer any questions if there is interest in exploring the idea further.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Kimberly,
February 11, 2026
Please see attached...
View AttachmentGrant,
February 11, 2026
Please see attached...
View AttachmentGrant, 37909
February 11, 2026
I’ve spent a good amount of time getting familiar with the proposed placetypes and zoning updates, and one area that stood out to me is the naming of the AP (Agricultural Preservation) and AR (Agricultural Rural) districts. While I think both zoning districts themselves are reasonable, I worry that the names are easily confused and may be unclear to many Knox County residents.
In particular, "Agricultural Preservation" sounds as though it broadly preserves agricultural land, when in practice it functions more as a framework for clustered development to protect certain environmental constraints. Meanwhile, the Agricultural Rural zoning district seems better aligned with preserving true agricultural use. The names sound very similar, despite having different meanings in practice.
Some of this confusion may also stem from the placetype names "Rural Living" and "Rural Preservation." While it may be too late to adjust those names, they can feel somewhat counterintuitive to the public—"Rural Preservation" sounds like it would preserve rural character broadly, while "Rural Living" might suggest more clustered residential development, when in reality the intent is closer to the opposite.
Kevin,
February 11, 2026
The proposed Proposed Purpose Statement for the ‘NR-Neighborhood Residential Zoning District’ states that “interconnectivity between developments is encouraged”
View AttachmentThe KCPA board strongly feels that this should be changed to interconnectivity between developments is required. Our reasoning is that optional ‘encouragement’, which has been the policy in Knox County for decades, has not led to actual interconnectivity. Only by clearly stating that connectivity is required will we begin to see neighborhoods connect.
See attached document for full discussion and an example of where this has benefited the developer-applicant.
Kevin,
February 11, 2026
The KCPA Council of Advocates submits the attached feedback on the Module A content.
View AttachmentKevin,
February 11, 2026
I have prepared lengthy comments on the Agricultural and rural districts and proposed uses. See the attached PDF.
View AttachmentKevin,
February 10, 2026
As we look at the zoning administration, the criteria and considerations for a map amendment are important to specify. Williamson County has a very thorough section about zoning amendments that could be a good model to follow
View AttachmentThe Williamson County Zoning Ordinance is published at https://www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14874/034-Zoning-Ordinance-06-10-2025?bidId=#page=29
Article 4 Section 4.05 is a good reference. I have extracted and attached Article 4 to this comment.
Kristi,
February 9, 2026
We are grateful for your time and assistance in sharing our recommended changes related to Food Bank and Food Pantry within the proposed Consolidated Uses and Definitions section of the UDO (Module A). The pdf is attached.
View AttachmentKevin, 37918
February 4, 2026
On the Module A - Zoning Districts survey that is currently underway:
The survey doesn't list the full Proposed Purpose statement of the zoning district - just a few bullet point summaries that don't provide the full context of the proposed purpose statement.
More importantly, participants can't offer feedback on each zoning district when they are presented with the info - just feedback on that scale from 1 to 5. It would be helpful, and it would make people feel they are being asked for their input, if an open-ended question for each zoning question was added alongside the Scale 1-5 ratings. Ask an open ended question "(Optional): are there reasons you would like to share about why you gave it these ratings, or feedback that you have on the proposed zoning district?"
The current format is frustrating, because you think that's all you're going to be asked - to rate them from 1 to 5.
Then, when you are asked at the end, it's up to the participant to figure out how to organize and write up all of the information into the open-ended response field. That certainly makes it difficult for the submitter and I imagine it also is difficult for reviewers to have that unstructured response.
Would it be possible to add an open-ended question to each zoning district response, and to add the full proposed zoning district purpose to the survey?
Andrea, 37920
February 3, 2026
I oppose the zoning change that allows multi family housing on my street, McCarrell Lane, in the Lakemoor Hills subdivision. This entire neighborhood is zoned as single family housing. There are no multi housing units. The proposed zoning change applies only to McCarrell Lane where there are large tracts of undeveloped land. This unprecedented change in zoning from single family to multi family that applies to only a small area in Lakemoor Hills, appears targeted to benefit developers and builders to the detriment of the single family home owners and changes the entire neighborhood. Please revise the plan to protect my home.
Brenda, 37932
December 5, 2025
Work on sufficient roads and schools before you add more people. Campbell Station is a good example as well as Yarnell Rd. These roads are also. used to bypass I-40/75 back ups.
Also make sure our schools are not overcrowded by new subdivisions.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self3) Denuding slopes.
Drive up and down Hardin Valley. Hilltops have been razed and the slopes denuded. The direct effects are obviously devastating to the local environment. The indirect effects on the local rivers are somewhat less visible, but equally devastating. After a big rain, or even a small one, the roads are filled with mud - the sediment-filled runoff from these developments. When this mud makes its way to our streams it wreaks havoc.
What to do?
* Associated rules should be strengthened, or existing rules should be enforced. Not sure which.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self2) Infrastructure as an afterthought.
It feels like hundreds of new housing units can be erected without any plan for dealing with the additional infrastructure requirements, especially schools and transportation.
What to do?
* Plans for dealing with additional strains on all types of infrastructure should be in place before greenlighting any large development.
* To reduce transportation requirements, local shopping options, playgrounds, athletic fields and greenways should also be included in the infrastructure plan.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of self* Require buffer zones so developments don’t go to the edge of their property lines. This is not only good for ecosystems, it is also just neighborly.
* Grading and slope requirements drive the cut and fill mentality of most large developments. These rules, combined with the area’s hilly terrain, demand a lot of fill, and the only economically feasible place to get the fill from is local hills. And you can’t get the dirt from the hills, or fill in the hollers, without killing all the vegetation. These requirements should be revised to allow developers to work with the local topography, not force them to homogenize it.
* I would love to see some sort of native plant landscaping requirement. Until that becomes practical, don’t leave rules in place that make it difficult for people to nativize their property. Weed ordinances come to mind. There is a difference between an unkempt yard and one being optimized for native plants. Rules should be written such that this difference is recognized. Ideally, such rules would be written in such a way that homeowners, fighting with their HOA over nativization efforts, could cite them.
* Ban plants found on broadly-recognized lists of invasive species.
Vince, 37932
November 2, 2025
On behalf of selfThree things where Knox County development can be done better (separate messages due to space constraints):
1)Thoughtless extirpation of native plants and high-value trees.
Native plants and high-value trees provide shade, habitat and a sense of being connected to the world around us. But the development process often eliminates them without a second thought. Native ecosystems are graded to the property line. Installed landscaping is rarely focused on native plants, and far too often introduces harmful invasive species, compounding the damage. “Weed” ordinances and other poorly-thought-out-rules make it difficult to do the right thing, even when a developer or homeowner wants to.
What to do?
Maureen, 37932
October 23, 2025
Disparity between the County Place Types Map and the County Zoning Map creates ambiguity in zoning and thus a watered down implementation of the Place Types that we envision. I live in a "rural conservation" area, but the zoning allows for small lots. All those small lots are quickly turned from rural to suburban. Meadows and fields (rural) turn into turf lawns and landscape beds full of exotic plants (suburban). The result is that rural areas are NOT conserved, but converted to suburban.
Sherri, 37849
October 11, 2025
I have heard time and time again that we must let developers do whatever they wish for the properties they purchase, yet the average citizen is not allowed to do certain things on their property. I get there needs to be some regulations, but property owners should not be restricted in certain areas, especially in the county lower residential zones. Homeowners in lower density such as RA and RB should be allowed some homesteading activities on their properties with some minor restrictions. Higher density should have a few more strict restrictions, as the neighbors are closer.
Development in this area should stop until what's approved and the infastructure has caught up. No one is talking about the properties approved for development that have been in the works for months and years. We must be realistic about what this county can handle with development, as without proper infastructure, such as roads, schools, health care, we will end up turning into cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and Memphis. Knox County should be responsible and make common sense decisions and stop approving development just because they asked for them.
The last thing I must say in regards to planning commission. Being in real estate and development on that commission is a huge conflict of interest and anyone in those fields should not be on there.
Cecalee, 37721
October 8, 2025
On behalf of Corryton elemBring ag and farm options to Gibbs/Corryton schools!!
Catherine, 37922
October 5, 2025
On behalf of personal commentsProtect Native Plants & Wildlife
• Without native plants, we lose native insects and then the birds that depend on them.
• Native bees are essential pollinators; crops like tomatoes depend on them.
• Ban invasive plants like Bradford Pear, Privet, Honeysuckle, and Kudzu.
Non-native invasive plants overwhelm native plants, which impacts the entire ecosystem that depends on those native plants—from microbes to insects and pollinators to birds and small mammals/wildlife.
Geneva, 37802
October 5, 2025
On behalf of Knox and surrounding counties.If Chattanooga can be a national parks city, why can't Knoxville be a green space city and lead the surrounding counties with its example.
Fewer houses per lot
Farther lot setbacks
Mandatory green spaces in communities
Low mow, no mow and bee friendly public spaces and roadsides.
The Tennessee Smart Yards program is a great resource and a resource we should use,
Tourism is a major financial driver for the state of Tennessee. Tourists come to see our states natural beauty. Losing 2-4 million acres of farmland by 2027 per UT Knoxville estimates says we are fast losing that beauty. Let's preserve what makes us unique and lead the surrounding counties in preserving our unique ecosystem as well.
Geneva A.
Elizabeth, 37920
October 4, 2025
Tennessee's native plants are beautiful, support local pollinators and bird species, and decrease the threat of damage from stormwater by increasing soil stability and water infiltration.
New developments in Knoxville should include wide buffers (at least 50 feet in rural areas) and be required to landscape with native species. Weed codes should also be changed so that homeowners and businesses are not punished for incorporating tall native wildflowers ("forbs") in addition to native grasses.
Winter, 37917
October 4, 2025
I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.They would help our native insects, birds and animals to thrive. Their deep roots will help to keep water where it falls. Please consider.
Macey, 37918
October 3, 2025
Allow taller native plants and wildflowers (“forbs”): Many of our butterflies and bees need those late season native flowers (and some even specialize on them), which are often taller plants. Examples include (but are not limited to): Verbesina virginica, Vernonia gigantea, and Eutrochium purpureum.
Require new developments to use all-native landscaping. Native landscaping is what is needed to provide the best and most food for the most wildlife, which includes butterflies, bees, and birds. Not only are these creatures important for beautifying our county, but they are also vital for the pollination of our food crops.
Native-lined greenways and local schools provide habitat, natural beauty, and lower maintenance. They are also wonderful ways to get children to appreciate nature and to find positive hobbies like gardening and bird watching.
Kathleen, 37923
October 3, 2025
On behalf of Self-homeowner--I am concerned with the pace of clear-cutting and usually scraping all the soil from forested and other natural areas for development. We need to consider how this adds to the erosion of our native soils and often dumps that soil and vegetation into our stormwater and waterways. Those who develop new areas should be required to consider basic principles that conserve trees and when planning new landscaping there should be a requirement to use at least 50% native plants. More native plants should also be used along highways and green strips. These practices would help support our critical native pollinators and birds, and add to the beauty of Knox County, which is a major reason many of us so enjoy living here.
John, 37922
October 3, 2025
On behalf of WatsonInfrastructure is the key to support your tax payers while I have lived in the area over 30 years, we continue to grow and prosper for all concerned, but the priorities are not being her from your citizens.
If addition housing developments are being considered, then schools, emergency services, and roadway accessibility must be at the forefront of those decisions. Living in the Choto area, multiple homes are being built, while roadways, emergency services can not keep up with the growth. One neighbor’s husband needed emergency services, but when services were requested, none were available. The response times are terrible, mainly due to overcrowded roadways.
Choto area must stay rural, and not part of farragut.
Why has it taken so long to open Boyd station road? Who is benefiting from the continual delays.
KEY FEATURES; large lots, country setting, privacy, and easy access for emergency vehicles on roadways, especially, when car wrecks occur and no space to go to side of roadway, to allow passing for emergency responses.
Louise,
October 3, 2025
Please see attached...
View AttachmentJessica, 37920
October 3, 2025
I would like to see incentives for the preservation of trees. The tree canopy in Knox County is dwindling, and this urgently needs to be addressed. Thank you for your consideration.
Denise, 37917
October 3, 2025
I'm writing to ask that you update local ordinances to encourage the planting of native plants in yards, greenways, natural landscapes and buffer zones. The science is clear - the overuse of non-native and invasive landscaping plants is terrible for local insect life, with serious consequences for other animals all the way up the food chain. Our local rules need to be updated to allow us all to create vibrant native landscapes for our animal neighbors, and more beauty for Knox County's human inhabitants as well.
Sarah, 37922
October 3, 2025
Please consider preference for farmer-supportive grocers in neighborhoods. Please also review stormwater management for new developments for both effective stormwater management but also for ecological benefit. We support walkable neighborhoods and communities in West Knox!
Michelle, 37804
October 2, 2025
I am the local rehabilitator for reptiles. That includes all species of turtles found in our area. Each year I see 60 animals injured by human interactions. This does not include the amount of animals that need to be euthanized and never make it to rehab. For those numbers, please consult UT. Many of these are our local Eastern Box turtle. The eastern box turtle is a precious local species. We are lucky to have them. Many parts of their territory, they are vulnerable or extinct. Their main threat is habitat loss. 60% of the world's turtle species are critically endangered. As Tennesseans and as Knoxville residents, we need to protect our wild spaces to ensure the continuation of these important species. Please protect our wetlands and out pocket forests. It is all these animals have left. Everything we label as progress, is considered destruction to them. Please consider consulting local conservationists, forestry specialists and ecologists before destroying what little we have left.
KK, 37922
October 2, 2025
Knox County needs to go after all the kudzu before it takes over! It had a particularly healthy growing season this year. Removing the kudzu should be the number one priority.
Thomas, 37917
October 2, 2025
Knox County should ban invasive species and require primarily native species as new developments are constructed. Some invasives, like Bradford pear and kudzu, are causing major harm, taking over many natural and native sites across the county.
The codes should support native and natural landscaped areas through keeping and strengthening Knox County’s definition of "Natural Landscaped Area." The revised code should require protection of the hillsides and ridgetop areas. Support efforts for homeowners to plant native yards.
Include recommendations from the Trees Knoxville Urban Forestry Plan to protect and expand the urban forest canopy. Many Knox County residents are working on efforts to protect and expand natural and native areas to attract native bees and other pollinators, and the codes can help support these efforts. Update mowing and roadside maintenance to favor natives, not invasives.
The county should look for ways to expand parks & greenways for people and nature. Support the maintenance of parks and greenways by reducing mowing and planting of native species. This will save money and help the environment. Knoxville and Knox County are considered an outdoor recreation destination, and increasing park and greenways that support native habitats will add to that draw.
This could make Knox County a nature-tourism destination.
Melinda, 37934
October 2, 2025
Knox county needs to prioritize native plants, which support biodiversity of plants, insects, birds and larger wildlife. Please legislate to encourage banning and removal of invasive species like privet, honeysuckle and kudzu. Replace with native plants.
Please make it so HOAs cannot ban natives or site homeowners for "weeds."
When I begin incorporating more natives in my own yard, I noticed and increase in butterflies and bees. These pollinators are important for our food and humans' survival. I am lucky to live in a neighborhood where the HOA does not ban these plants. Some of my friends are not so lucky and their neighborhoods are so devoid of wildlife. Bluebirds used to be plentiful, for example, and now are more rare to see.
Planting natives along Greenways minimizes maintenance and increases wildlife habitat.
Please make Knox County a model for returning native plants to our landscapes, roadways and neighborhood. Be a model for preserving native plants already here by prohibiting complete destruction with developments. Require new developments to plant natives. Thank you!
Melanie, 37920
October 2, 2025
I whole heartedly support a ban on invasive plants and the subsequential requirement of native plants for all new developments. Currently my property is overrun by Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) due to the property adjacent. The property owner removed 90% of the wooded area but left two very large Tree of Heaven trees in anticipation of development which was abandoned 5 years ago. This caused that species to thrive and spread at an unmanageable rate. It has caused me a significant financial burden to ATTEMPT to mitigate. It is still not under control. Developers and new property owners need to be informed about and required to remove any plants listed on the Tennessee Invasive Plant List prior to development.
Furthermore, I would like to see updated codes so that homeowners can plant native yards without being cited for weeds. These landscapes are better for pollinators, local wildlife, and stormwater management.
Wild Ones,
October 2, 2025
Please see attachment...
View AttachmentBrandy, 37920
October 2, 2025
Please require the use of native plants that support pollinators. Encourage natural landscaping that is supportive of wildlife and insects including ponds and water features. Require of a variety of native trees, native plants and wildflowers, and native grasses to sustain our wildlife and pollinators and help manage stormwater. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Nancy, 37934
October 2, 2025
I am replacing much of my lawn with native plants in both Knox County and Louisiana. It is a big undertaking requiring several years of patience. It will payoff by reducing use of water for irrigation and chemical pollutants from pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. The new landscapes are beautiful and alive with pollinators. Please revise the UDO to encourage the unimpeded expansion of native landscaping for all home, business, and public lands.
Evan, 37806
October 2, 2025
I support banning invasive plants like Bradford Pear and Privet. They are destroying our native landscapes.
Please update codes so homeowners can plant native yards without being cited for weeds. These landscapes are better for pollinators and stormwater management.
New developments should include wider buffers and require invasive removal. This protects wildlife and prevents flooding.
I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.
Elysia, 37919
October 2, 2025
I support ordinances and initiatives that encourage native plants. Not only are they practical, but they provide a source of understanding and attachment to place. The more we see and learn to appreciate the natural species of our area, the more we feel a sense of belonging and a responsibility to participate, nurture, and care for the place we live. I’d love to see native-lined greenways across Knox County, they would cut maintenance costs and showcase Tennessee’s beauty.
Joyce, 37920
October 2, 2025
On behalf of Greene37920
I think that along our roadsides more controlled mowing should be applied to favor native plants and not just weeds and invasive. I have seen and applaud areas where wildflowers have been grown--and encourage even more of this effort. Keep turf grass low and used as borders but allow native plants and wildflowers to grow tall. Also, in the fall, allow those native plants to remain standing until Spring to provide shelter and food for wildlife.
I would like to see a registry or certification system for local/state-wide native yards and gardens/areas in order to support the cooperation between those responsible for developing and maintaining these areas. There is much to share--information, plants and seeds, etc. with each other to support and recognize the work done. In the city and other public areas, signage would be helpful to explain the work being done and parties supporting the work.
HOAs should not be allowed to ban native landscapes. Instead, these should be supported by the city and encouraged.
New housing developments should be required to provide space(s) for residents to develop gardens as well as open areas that each small "community" can use for rest and recreation. Green areas for all---including families living in apartments and townhomes.
Nancy, 37920
October 2, 2025
The Advance Knox initiative is an important opportunity for us to protect our natural surroundings in Knox County. By focusing on incentives to protect native plants and wildlife, we encourage native bees and other pollinators. So much of our farmland in Knox County has been converted to housing, reducing large areas of native plants. We should encourage homeowners to recreate that in their landscapes and lawns. Knox County should focus on native plants in all public lands. In addition, the county should focus on removal of as much invasive plant material as possible.
We have many non-profit organizations in Knox County that could become helpful partners for invasive plant removal; Knox County government should establish way to collaborate with these organizations (I belong to several of them). Knox County should also expand homeowner programs such as Smart Yards, a UT Extension/Knox County Master Gardeners program that helps homeowners develop native yards. At one time Knox County provided homeowner assistance in developing rain gardens to control water runoff. With Knox County government support and promotion, These programs can be useful to homeowners and benefit the entire area.
Thanks.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Require the use of green infrastructure such as pervious pavers, stormwater, swales, raingardens, and other features that allow stormwater to be captured, treated and infiltrated.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Please ensure protection of stream side, corridors and enhancement. Remove invasive species and replace with native plants and trees, not cultivars. Ensure adequate depth of buffer with vegetation for stream cover and overall aquatic health. Thank you.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Also, please consider and encourage the use of meadow and prairie type vegetation and management styles that include no mowing or seasonal mowing or burning. Encourage no fertilizer or pesticide use. Allow for natural looking landscapes and management of them. Allow plants to remain overwinter to provide habitat for insects and pollinators. Encourage leaving the leaves again for habitat for insects and pollinators. Thank you.
Katie, 37917
October 2, 2025
Please consider prioritizing use of native plant species rather than non-natives or invasives.
Liz, 37917
October 2, 2025
Regarding the Landscape code, please require the use of native plants that support pollinators, including taller plants, such as forbes and and also encourage the use of rain gardens. Encourage natural looking landscaping that is supportive of wildlife including ponds and water features that allow access to water for insects and other wildlife.. Require of a variety of native trees wildflowers, native grasses and forbes erc that support our wildlife and pollinators and that helped manage stormwater. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.
Maureen, 37932
October 2, 2025
Support homeowners who opt for native landscape areas by limiting county “weed” citations. We know that every landowner’s actions affect neighbors and communities. Native plants encourage biodiversity and help to limit erosion and storm water runoff.
Dianne, 37920
October 1, 2025
On behalf of MyselfI am a gardener and appreciate all of the native lands in and near my flower and vegetable gardens. They ensure a more successful season due to attracting desirable pollinators and birds and helping with erosion problems.
I urge anyone with interest in native plants, especially developers, to visit a wonderful example at Seven Islands State Park. No homeowner should be cited for having a native landscape and invasive should be removed before development happens following the TN Invasive Plant List. If anything, Knox County should keep and strengthen the definition of “Natural Landscape Area” and encourage use of it to restore the important balance in our environment.
Emily, 37920
October 1, 2025
We need to incentivize the use and protection of native plant species. We all can appreciate the beauty of native wildlife when we go to state parks. And it feels completely different from the side of the highways when we see a forest covered in kudzu vines.
Native species allow wildlife to flourish. we take care of it and it takes care of us in return. With non native and invasive species, they take spaces that native plants need, reducing resources for our animals. There’s less food, habitats, and shelter for mammals, bugs, birds, and pollinators when we allow invasive plants a space in our community.
1. Create incentives for private land owners, businesses, and communities to promote native plant use
2. Ban the use of plants off of the Tennessee Invasive Plants List, especially in public projects.
3. Promote resiliency in our community by creating stormwater drainage and erosion control areas where needed by using native landscaping designs.
4. Update codes and laws that penalize landowners for using native species or having native lawns. Allow wildflowers (“forbs”) in lawns. Biodiversity is important
5. Strengthen our urban greenways by setting aside more space and planting natives along the roads.
Emily, 37920
October 1, 2025
Promoting native landscapes increases pollinator populations, more wildflower, increases biodiversity levels, and increases the resiliency of our ecosystems. It’s rewarding to spend time in nature, knowing that these spaces allow wildlife to flourish too. We can all see the beauty in places like our state parks, and we can see what lose— looking out the window on the highway to see a forest covered in kudzu. Some invasive species completely take over areas, meaning less nesting spaces for our birds, less food for our bugs, and less habitat for our mammals. Other Invasive and non-native species act like junk food for our wildlife. While they may eat it, it doesn’t provide any of the nutrients they need. It weakens wildlife populations and leads to decreased populations.
1. Ban planting species from the Tennessee Invasive Plant List, especially for official projects. Instead, require natives to be used for landscape and revitalization parts.
2. Update ordinance laws to protect native lawns, which are currently being punished due to “weed laws”. Instead, incentivize private property and businesses to plant natives in their lawns.
3. Prohibit HOAs from penalizing homeowners for planting native species
4. Build resiliency: create stormwater drainage areas with water loving native plants and manage erosion prone areas with native plants that naturally mitigate erosion
Marlene, 37919
October 1, 2025
Please forego grass for meadows of native plants. Located next to the Smoky Mountains -- habitats of many diverse herbaceous plants -- Knoxville is ideal for going back to Nature and letting our native plants thrive. Let's be a pollinator city -- grounds filled with honey bees, butterflies and birds! This is a win-win opportunity. Think of the reduction of fossil fuel use, noise pollution and the ridiculous habit of mowing practically everything. Yes to Native plants, please!
Amber, 37914
September 29, 2025
I have lived in east Tennessee my whole life and I am concerned about the continual increase of development. We live in a beautiful area so I can understand why people want to live here but I wish these developers would respect our natural areas and topography. I am concerned about flooding in our region, as we live in a valley. How much development can we take before we start having dire consequences? Please consider leaving natural areas as part of these development designs for the sake of our future.
Subrina, 37912
September 29, 2025
Better and more transportation options. I moved from Cincinnati to Knoxville in 1997 to attend college here. I remembered a friend and I caught the bus to West Town Mall on the way back we missed the bus. We had to wait at least 1 hour if not more for the next bus to come. I told my friend I would never catch the bus here in Knoxville ever again and I didn't. That weekend I caught the Greyhound back home and drove my car back to Knoxville. That was 20 years ago and the city has grown significantly since then with no changes in public transportation. In Cincinnati in the majority of the area you can catch a bus every 15 to 20 minutes with several different buses/routes that interconnect with one another providing riders different route options depending on where they are going in the city. Better public transportstion would increase individuals who ride the bus and as a result decrease automobile use and traffic.
Joseph,
September 29, 2025
Please see the attached comments.
View AttachmentMeg,
September 26, 2025
Please see attached.
View AttachmentPaul,
September 26, 2025
Please see attached.
View AttachmentM, 37721
September 26, 2025
Hi, do you all drive these roads? If yes, how many times have you had to worry about coming upon a pedestrian in the street because there is nowhere for them to walk. Or how about all the new subdivisions being built next to smallest roads which increase traffic jams. Does having more people live here equal a better city? If yes, how about mixed zoning like we use to have? Less commute time is a thing. And how about the cost of living? I'm guessing most of those who are involved in whatever this is don't really feel the effects of increased property cost. If you do, I'm sure you can survive it. There's nothing more we as citizens want than to have a city we are proud to live in, but if the city is brutal to even step foot on that's not really a place worth living. There are some real improvements going on but we need to keep that momentum going. In short, more sidewalks, mixed zoning, rent control. Thank you.
Maria,
September 26, 2025
East Tennessee REALTORS has compiled a high level brief of UDO priorities to help guide discussion during the process. The attached document echoes our statements during the initial feedback meetings and adds detail, intended to help our members and partners advocate for a UDO that will support smart growth and align with the Advance Knox Comprehensive Plan.
View AttachmentThe highlighted priorities were identified by the association through many rounds of discussion and meetings with REALTOR® members, developers, architects, construction industry professionals and other relevant stakeholders. The intent of our approach is to quantify specific areas of opportunity without prescribing technical solutions that are best created through the process with Orion Planning + Design.
We were very pleased to see the Orion team's initial assessment so closely align with our identified areas of focus, and look forward to continuing to participate in the process.
Mark, 37922
September 25, 2025
I would strongly encourage regulations to protect forested areas, steep slopes, wetlands, sinkholes, and similar ecologically important lands. Flexibility should be provided in ordinances to allow for clustering development on the more developable parts of the land and protecting those areas that are more challenging. I would also like to see a focus on wildlife habitat and integrating it into the development process so that corridors are provided along with open spaces that would be required with all subdivisions.
I would love to see more multi-use paths and connecting them and a stronger focus on transportation options that help lessen our dependence on automobiles. I support more compact and mixed use development where infrastructure is readily available vs. greenfield and single use developments that are a net cost to taxpayers and extend infrastructure into rural areas that should be retained for agricultural or natural purposes. Thank you for this opportunity to comment.
Axel,
September 19, 2025
The attached comments are submitted on behalf of the Harvey Broome Group Sierra Club.
View AttachmentNancy,
September 18, 2025
Please see the attached comments on Knox County's Unified Development Ordinance.
View AttachmentLisa , 37922
September 17, 2025
On behalf of League of Women Voters of Knoxville/Knox CountyThe League of Women Voters of Knoxville/Knox County is a non-partisan, grassroots organization which encourages informed and active participation in government and advocates for public policies that strengthen our democracy and empower voters.
Our organization is committed to advocating for smart development and land use policies that preserve our natural and cultural resources. On behalf of our organization, we would ask the following to be considered in the development of the Unified Development Ordinance.
We request that:
- Ridges, slopes, open spaces, and vegetation critical to biodiversity, natural habitats and historic/scenic character be preserved.
- Natural areas are conserved or restored, storm water pollution reduced and waterways protected.
- Policies be considered that equitably balance and distribute the costs and benefits of population growth to all.
- Infill development and investment in existing communities be promoted.
- Community appearance and livability be enhanced.
- Communication with the public, understanding of the process, government transparency, and the ability to appeal are important and should be improved.
Thank you for considering our comments in the future planning stages of the Unified Development Ordinance.
Kevin, 37918
July 17, 2025
On behalf of Knox Community Planning AllianceThe Knox Community Planning Alliance published policy statement about the UDO in early July. In it are some observations and suggestions for the UDO to address.
View AttachmentThe current policy statement may be accessed at: https://www.kcpa.us/2025/07/kpca-policy-statement-for-new-knox-county-unified-development-ordinance-udo/