A free online informational session is available for local officials and staff seeking guidance on Tennessee Public Chapter 140 (2025), a new law establishing transparency requirements for development-related fees. The session takes place on May 20, 2026, at 9:00 AM CST and is free to all registrants.
Public Chapter 140 requires that any development-related fee exceeding $250 be supported by documented cost justification available for public inspection. These requirements are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026, giving local governments limited time to review and update their existing fee structures.
The session will cover practical compliance guidance, including how to document and justify commonly used fees such as subdivision review fees, zoning review fees, stormwater fees, zoning appeals fees, and building permit and inspection fees. Attendees will also learn which fees are covered under the law, which are exempt, and what tools and resources are available to assist with compliance.
The webinar is offered through a partnership of agencies within the University of Tennessee Institute for Public Service, including the UT County Technical Assistance Service (UT-CTAS), the UT Municipal Technical Advisory Service (UT-MTAS), and the UT Center for Local Planning (UT-CLP), which will lead the presentation.
Local development officials and elected officials involved in the adoption of development-related fees are especially encouraged to attend.
To register, visit https://tennessee.zoom.us/meeting/register/K-NoFJqTTF6P1FqfG77eUQ#/registration.
For questions, contact Tom Brashear at tom.brashear@tennessee.edu, John Chlarson at john.chlarson@tennessee.edu, or Josh Suddath at josh.suddath@tennessee.edu.