Residents clash over zoning and animal rights in Sevierville

October 30, 2024 | Knox County, Tennessee


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Residents clash over zoning and animal rights in Sevierville
In a recent government meeting, a property owner from Sevierville, Tennessee, addressed ongoing code violations related to her agricultural property, sparking a heated discussion among officials and local residents. The owner, who has been working to clear her land since purchasing it a year and a half ago, claimed to have complied with all code requirements, including removing an RV after receiving complaints. She expressed frustration over a codes enforcement officer's repeated visits to her property without prior consultation, alleging that her privacy was violated despite having no trespassing signs posted.

The property owner detailed her efforts to maintain the land, including cutting down over 100 trees and caring for various animals, such as pigs and poultry. She described her operation as a \"hobby farm,\" emphasizing that she does not intend to run a commercial farming business. However, the codes enforcement officer clarified that while the property is zoned for agriculture, it does not meet the criteria to be classified as a farm, which would require commercial production.

Local residents voiced their concerns during the meeting, with one neighbor describing the property as a \"disaster\" due to the smell and presence of animals close to residential areas. Another resident expressed worries about the proximity of pigs to his mobile home, highlighting the potential for unpleasant odors.

The discussion also touched on the legality of keeping animals on agricultural land, with officials noting that while agricultural zoning permits such activities, the absence of commercial farming status means the property owner must adhere to specific regulations, including maintaining a clean lot. The meeting concluded with officials indicating that the property owner would need to address the ongoing violations to avoid further penalties.

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This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.

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    Scribe from Workplace AI
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