About CLP
The Center for Local Planning serves as a resource to advance effective land use planning and growth management across Tennessee.
CLP was established in 2025 to strengthen local capacity and provide direct technical support to cities, counties and development districts.
Our Mission
The Center for Local Planning provides cities and counties with technical assistance, training, policy guidance and applied research related to land use planning.
The Center also serves as a resource to help communities plan for growth and infrastructure needs, preserve rural character and comply with requirements established by the Tennessee General Assembly.
Core Values
- Service: Deliver responsive, practical assistance to local governments and development districts.
- Integrity: Uphold transparency, fairness and professionalism in all operations.
- Innovation: Promote forward-thinking approaches and technologies in land use planning.
- Collaboration: Build strong partnerships across state agencies, regional organizations and local communities.
- Stewardship: Work with local and state level officials to protect Tennessee’s natural and agricultural resources for future generations.
The Need
From 1997 to 2017, 1.1 million acres, or the equivalent land mass of four counties, were converted out of agriculture and forestry production. Since 2017, the loss has equaled 86,588 acres per year, or 237.2 acres per day, or 9.8 acres per hour.
The projected cumulative loss is estimated to be approximately 2 million acres, the equivalent of eight counties, lost to production by 2027.
The Center for Local Planning assists with long-term growth plans that preserve Tennessee’s rural landscape. We are partnering with the UT Institute of Agriculture’s Center for Profitable Agriculture statewide Landowner Education Program to promote greater consistency in planning across the state.
