Professional organizations have prepared a number of model codes, such as those for building, plumbing, and electrical, that can be adopted by municipal governing bodies. Such a code may be identified in an ordinance adopting it by reference, which avoids publication. A copy of any code adopted by reference must be filed with the city clerk and be made available for public inspection at least 15 days before the adopting ordinance passes. However, any penalty provisions must be in the adopting ordinance, which must be published in the manner prescribed for ordinances.

If a model code has been adopted, any subsequent amendment must be adopted unless the governing body, by a vote of at least two-thirds of its total membership, elects not to incorporate the amendment. T.C.A. §§ 6-54-501–505, 507.

T.C.A. § 6-54-502(c) contains provisions for administratively adopting amendments to model codes.