Comprehensive Plan
vs Zoning Ordinance
The Comprehensive Plan is adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council and provides strategic policy direction and guidance. However, a comprehensive plan is not the same as a zoning ordinance. The zoning ordinance is a legal framework that regulates land uses recommended in the comprehensive plan by determining what is legally allowed on a specific piece of property.
Why plan?
Knoxville’s favorable location, diverse economy, and exciting amenities have made it one of the fastest growing cities in the US. The City will need to address complex, overlapping challenges related to growth and development that could impact both its livability and long-term resilience. Planning for what’s next will help us grow in a way that is distinctly Knoxville, ensuring how the city develops is guided by both data and shared community values.
How can you get involved?
We are planning various activities over the course of the year to meet and hear from community members across the city, both in-person and online. We are kicking it off by holding listening sessions in late April to better understand what YOU envision for our future. Find out more about these sessions on our Events page!
We hope you'll join us at an upcoming in-person listening session to share your perspective and connect with the project team. If you're unable to attend, check back here in the coming weeks to participate online. Don’t forget to tell your friends and neighbors too - we all have a say in What’s Next!