Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Brentwood public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
18 issues in zoning
Ordinance 2026-09 Zoning Assignment
The commission will examine a proposed zoning assignment to SI-3 for property south of Old Hickory Boulevard. This change will dictate future land use and development standards for the area.
Harpeth Hills Church Ball Fields Rezoning
An inclusive baseball field for kids with disabilities got unanimous approval, with a show of support from the West Nashville Sports League, which donated over $700,000 to the effort.
SI-3 Zoning for City-Owned Parcel South of Old Hickory Boulevard
The city is cleaning up the zoning on 18 acres it already owns, which hold a sewer tank and pump station. It heads to the city commission for a public hearing November 9.
Building Permit Fee Calculation Revision
The city updated its residential construction valuation formula, raising the baseline cost from $170 to $180 per square foot for habitable space. City leaders noted the increase is modest and stays well below recent inflation rates.
Accessory Structure Setback Compliance and Surveys
The board addressed property owners building or planning accessory structures, reinforcing rules about yard placement, unpermitted work, and commercial use restrictions.
Municipal Zoning for Old Hickory Boulevard Utility Property
The city is zoning its own ~18-acre parcel — home to a pump station and equalization tank — as Service Institutional after annexing it. No changes to the property are planned; second reading is ahead.
Regulation of Accessory Structures and Prevention of Residential Living Quarters
The board repeatedly flagged the worry that pool houses with kitchens, baths, and especially laundry could become de facto living quarters or rentals. On Forest Lawn Drive, approval came only with a condition barring any laundry facilities.
Historic Property Variance and Accessory Structure Limits at Montview
The 1860 Mountview estate at 913 Franklin Road is on the National Register of Historic Places, and a pool house was started there in 2025 without permits. The approved variance lets the owners keep three accessory buildings instead of two while folding the historic smokehouse into the main house — preserving the historic potting shed the Historic Commission wanted saved.
Zoning and Annexation for Hillsborough Road Property
The city initiated the annexation process for a 76-acre property it owns on Hillsborough Road that houses a municipal pump station and equalization tank.
Data Center Zoning and Regulation
City leaders discussed how Brentwood's zoning code applies to data centers and server farms. Officials emphasized that while no applications have been filed, current commercial rules allow small-scale operations while larger projects would need special approval.
Accessory Structure Approval at 8300 Alamo Road
Homeowners in Crockett Hills are adding a new 708-square-foot detached garage and pool, which prompted neighbor discussion about drainage easements and property lines.
Cruise Subdivision Annexation and Zoning
Over 76 acres west of Hillsboro Road are being annexed into Brentwood and assigned OSRD and R-2 zoning. This brings the land under city planning standards and allows for a 25-lot open space residential development.
New 76-Acre Residential Rezoning Project
The city is reviewing a 26-lot single-family subdivision on a 76-acre property west of Hillsborough Road. Most of the land will remain as open space, and utility services will be handled by Metro Nashville.
Residential Green Space and Stormwater Requirements
The city is updating zoning and stormwater codes to ensure that larger homes built on existing lots do not overwhelm neighborhood drainage or eliminate absorbent green space.
Hillside Protection Site Plan Exemption for 1531 Franklin Road
Several homeowners received approval for pools, additions, and porch expansions under hillside protection rules. These reviews ensure that construction on sloping terrain maintains safety and preserves natural vegetation.
Hillside Protection and Residential Construction on Robert E. Lee Drive
Several homeowners are seeking approvals for additions, pools, and accessory structures on hillside lots. Commissioners checked whether these projects meet local design and safety standards.
Rezoning at 2001 Shamrock Drive
A proposal to rezone property at Harpeth Hills Church of Christ to allow an all-inclusive baseball field for individuals with disabilities. Supporters highlighted community benefits and private funding, while some neighbors raised concerns about lighting, noise, and traffic.
Accessory Structure Approval on Ascot Close
A homeowner received permission to build a backyard pavilion with a stone fireplace, provided they fix an old fence encroachment onto neighboring property first.