from the Town by Wendy Smith
Updating home occupation ordinance
The Town of Farragut is updating its home occupation ordinance. The Town has always regulated home-based businesses, but due to a post-Covid increase in working from home, the ordinance needs updating to allow a wider range of businesses and provide clarification of rules.
The Town wants to support more home-based businesses while protecting the character of Farragut’s neighborhoods. Residents value the community’s quiet, well-kept environment, so businesses that cause excessive noise, traffic or use large equipment are not
appropriate in residential areas.
How the update process works
The update process has followed the same steps as any other zoning ordinance change.
In October of 2024, Town staff determined updates to the Home Occupation Ordinance were needed and began working with the Municipal Planning Commission on proposed revisions. A working group made up of residents, business owners, a planning commissioner and an alderman reviewed and discussed proposed changes.
The proposed updates were discussed at three Planning Commission meetings, where the public had opportunities to share feedback.
Key proposed changes
• More types of businesses allowed:
Previously, only a few specific occupations were permitted. The new ordinance allows a broader range of businesses, and staff can approve others not specifically listed.
• Commercial equipment:
The original ordinance did not allow commercial vehicles outside the home. The update would allow commercial vehicles up to 27 feet long and trailers up to 16 feet long to be parked in driveways.
• Clear language:
The new ordinance provides more clarity than the original ordinance regarding traffic generation and solid waste containers.
How enforcement will work
Some residents have asked how the updated ordinance will be enforced. The answer is simple: the same way it always has been — by responding to complaints.
If there is a visible sign of a violation, such as an oversized commercial vehicle in a driveway, Town staff may issue a notice of violation. Town staff do not enter a home to look for a home-based business.
Current status
The Board of Mayor and Aldermen was scheduled to vote on the ordinance update at its Oct. 30 meeting, which was canceled due to a lack of quorum. The process currently is on hold as the Town Attorney reviews a recent Tennessee court case related to home-based businesses.
While that review is under way, the Town is seeking additional input from:
• The Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce
• The Small Business Development Center
• The Tennessee Association of Realtors.
Feedback from residents and HOAs also is welcome.
If you operate a home-based business in Farragut and want to learn more, please contact the Community Development Department at 865-966-7057.
Stay informed
The best way to stay informed about Town of Farragut government is to sign up for agenda updates at townoffarragut.org/agendas. Within the Agenda Portal, click “Subscriptions” to create an account and sign up for e-mail notification when agendas for Town boards, committees and commissions are posted.
