Code Overhaul: Chattanooga Approves New Zoning to Cut Housing Costs, Diversify Options

Chattanooga, Tenn. – An Innovative Zoning Reform

In a bid to combat rising housing costs and diversify available housing options, the City of Chattanooga, Tennessee has initiated its first comprehensive zoning reform. This hard-fought reform comes as the result of three years of intense work and planning, as revealed in a recent announcement by Chattanooga’s mayor, Tim Kelly.

The New Flexible Zoning Code

The new regulations offer a more flexible zoning code that authorizes and encourages the construction of a wider range of residential buildings including multi-family structures, townhomes, and single and two-unit homes on smaller lots. The goal is to increase housing density in Chattanooga’s urban core, and in turn, make housing more affordable for its residents.

Key Changes and Their Impacts

One of the most significant alterations to the previous zoning ordinances lies in lot size requirements. Previously, building a single house required a lot to be 7,500 square feet. With the newly introduced changes, this prerequisite has been reduced to 5,000 square feet.

This strategic modification is projected to bolster the city’s overall housing supply, particularly in areas where there is pre-existing infrastructure and capacity. Currently, 75% of Chattanooga is zoned as R1, or residential. Starting from November, this is planned to shift into a new zoning category, RN1. While the zoning category for the remaining 25% of the city is yet to be decided, it is anticipated to fall under multiple zones.

Mixed-Use Zones and Suburban Development

The revamped zoning code also introduces several mixed-use zones in a move to revive popular city corridors including Brainerd Road, Rossville Boulevard, and Highway 58. In these areas, developments that comprise of a blend of residential, commercial and retail spaces are encouraged. As an example, a proposal for a new development on East 23rd Street suggests a project featuring a new grocery store, residential structures at the rear of the property, and several smaller retail parcels, all designed to replace the current under-utilized parking lot.

The reforms also empower suburban developers by allowing them to construct structures closer to main roads, incorporate rear-located parking and include residential units in commercial projects. This shift in building form is predicted to stimulate economic growth, introduce more amenities to residents and make Chattanooga an even more appealing place to live and work.

Providing More Affordable Housing Options

According to Doug Fisher, from the Home Builders Association of Greater Chattanooga, the changed zoning regulations allow for more creativity in housing development and offer different housing opportunities previously limited under the older zoning codes. From zero lot line houses to townhouses, an increased variety of housing solutions are now in place. This could potentially make housing more accessible to Chattanooga residents, including those serving in essential public service roles like teaching, law enforcement and emergency medical services that might have otherwise struggled with housing affordability.

In the next phase of this zoning reform, the city will commence a mapping process to identify which properties align with the new zoning codes. Chattanooga inhabitants are encouraged to stay tuned as they witness the transformation of their city’s residential landscape.

Revamping the City, One Zoning Reform at a Time

Chattanooga’s zoning overhaul bears testament to the city’s unwavering commitment to address the ongoing housing crisis. Through the introduction of responsive regulations, fostering creativity in housing development, and revitalizing key city corridors, the city takes an innovative approach in response to its diversifying residential needs. This landmark reform illustrates the potential of well-conceived zoning rules to reshape cities and improve the quality of life for their residents.