The land use implications of bed and breakfast establishments in the state of Tennessee

Bed and breakfasts are a rapidly growing phenomenon in the travel and lodging industry. Bed and breakfast establishments share only the common definition that lodging is provided for the night and breakfast is included in the price of the room. Bed and breakfasts may operate in both commercial and residential zones raising questions about their impact within the community and on neighbors.

Questionnaires were sent to existing bed and breakfast establishments in Tennessee and to planning officials working in urban and rural areas to gather information on bed and breakfast operations and their impacts on the community.

Bed and breakfasts establishments are located throughout the state, but cluster in tourism areas. Since no state-wide association of these operators currently exists, individual owners must seek their own contacts for support and advice. The State Tourism Department has a published brochure which should be made more readily available in order to increase awareness of these accommodation opportunities.

Bed and breakfasts should be allowed to operate in all neighborhoods but should be defined and guided by standards that will assure that such business do not alter the character of the neighborhood. Bed and breakfasts can support historic preservation efforts and can provide lodging accommodations in areas which cannot support a hotel or motel.