Chattanooga Expands Wildlife Protection Zones

New ordinances aim to preserve natural habitats and reduce human-animal conflicts.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The city of Chattanooga has passed new legislation to expand wildlife protection zones in several areas around the city. The new ordinances will restrict development and human activity in sensitive natural habitats, with the goal of preserving local wildlife populations and reducing conflicts between humans and animals.

Why it matters

Chattanooga's rapid growth in recent years has led to increased encroachment on natural areas, putting pressure on local wildlife. These new protections aim to strike a balance between development and environmental conservation, ensuring the city's natural heritage is preserved for future generations.

The details

The new wildlife protection zones cover several areas around Chattanooga, including the Walden Ridge foothills, the Tennessee River Gorge, and portions of the Cumberland Plateau. Within these zones, new development will be strictly limited, and activities like hunting, fishing, and off-road vehicle use will be regulated. The city will also invest in wildlife corridors and fencing to mitigate human-animal conflicts.

  • The new wildlife protection ordinances were passed by the Chattanooga City Council on February 9, 2026.
  • The new zones and regulations will go into effect on March 1, 2026.

The players

Chattanooga City Council

The legislative body of the city of Chattanooga, Tennessee, responsible for passing the new wildlife protection ordinances.

Chattanooga Department of Parks and Recreation

The city agency tasked with implementing and enforcing the new wildlife protection regulations.

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What they’re saying

“These new protections are an important step in preserving Chattanooga's natural heritage for future generations. We must find a way to balance growth and development with environmental conservation.”

— Mayor Tim Kelly, Mayor of Chattanooga (Chattanooga Times Free Press)

“While we understand the need for development, we cannot ignore the impact it has on local wildlife. These new zones will help ensure a future where humans and nature can coexist peacefully.”

— Sarah Johnson, Executive Director, Chattanooga Audubon Society (WTVC NewsChannel 9)

What’s next

The city plans to hold public information sessions in the coming months to educate residents on the new wildlife protection zones and regulations.

The takeaway

Chattanooga's new wildlife protection ordinances demonstrate a commitment to balancing urban growth with environmental stewardship, setting an example for other rapidly developing cities seeking to preserve their natural assets.