ADU Rules in Tennessee (2026)
ADU rules in Tennessee — no statewide ADU law. Regulation is entirely local. Key provisions and city-specific frameworks for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
No — regulation is local
Statewide Preemption Status Unconfirmed
No statewide preemption statute was confirmed for this jurisdiction — regulation is local. Local governments retain full authority to set their own rules.
Local Control Framework
Tennessee has no statewide ADU law as of 2026 · Source
ADU regulation is entirely local — each municipality sets its own rules · Source
Nashville (Metro Nashville-Davidson County) has a DADU (Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit) ordinance · Source
Chattanooga and Knoxville also have local ADU frameworks · Source
Tennessee state legislature has not passed ADU reform legislation despite housing supply challenges · Source
Tennessee is a local-control state for land use — zoning authority delegated to municipalities and counties · Source
Legislative History
2023 —
Tennessee legislature considered housing supply legislation related to zoning reform but did not enact a comprehensive statewide ADU mandate. Local municipalities retain authority to permit or restrict ADUs under local zoning ordinances. · Source
Source: Tennessee Local Zoning Authority. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source