Frequently Asked Questions

You can attend a meeting, subscribe to our email list for updates, become a member, volunteer, or simply connect with neighbors. Every bit helps!

To become a member of the Brainerd Park Neighborhood Association, each applicant must apply, show proof of residency, and pay the yearly dues ($30 for the 2026-2027 year). Membership is voluntary and is not required to attend meetings and to be involved with the neighborhood association. Membership dues help the neighborhood association plan events to give back to the community.

Short Answer:

We get together to talk about neighborhood issues (safety, beautification efforts, etc.) and come up with a plan to better and strengthen our neighborhood together. Our neighborhood association aims to build community through fun events throughout the year, that are only made possible by residents willing to get involved.

Long Answer:

Neighborhood Associations are voluntary, resident-led groups that play a crucial role in building strong, connected communities. As independent entities, they are distinct from the City of Chattanooga, which neither creates nor governs them. While the City establishes registration criteria through Neighborhood Services, these guidelines exist to enhance the credibility and empowerment of neighborhood groups, not to control them.

For decades, Neighborhood Associations have been central to civic life in Chattanooga. Some of the city’s oldest neighborhoods—St. Elmo, Hill City, and Bushtown—were once independent municipalities with their own local governments before being annexed. Today, Chattanooga is home to over 100 diverse Neighborhood Associations, ranging from traditional resident groups to Homeowners Associations and Community Councils, each reflecting the unique character and priorities of its community.

Neighborhood Associations hold considerable power in local politics and can change the direction of local history. From preserving history, parks, and culture to influencing land use decisions and major developments, the impact of everyday people organizing for a better world creates lasting positive influence for our city. Political campaigns begin and end in the Neighborhood Associations, and many neighborhood leaders themselves go on to become elected officials and lead our city to greater heights.

More than just gatherings, Neighborhood Associations are the foundation of grassroots democracy, giving residents a voice in shaping their neighborhoods and the city as a whole. They foster civic leadership, drive advocacy, and build partnerships that strengthen communities. While each group operates independently, all share a common goal: to bring neighbors together, amplify local voices, and create lasting, positive change. Their potential is as great as the imagination, commitment, and collaboration of those who choose to lead.

Neighborhood Associations are not the same as Homeowners Associations.

There are no Codes, Covenants, and Restrictions tied to property deeds that give the Neighborhood Association powers over the property owner. Neighborhood Associations have no powers of compulsion over residents (ie: they can’t make you mow your grass, issue tickets, etc) nor is attendance and participation required. Neighborhood Associations have no power over individual property modifications and do not review, deny, or approve architectural plans.

No, your level of involvement is completely up to you.

Staying informed helps strengthen our community overall, so we do invite you to stop in when you can.

You can check the map created by the City of Chattanooga and see where your address is assigned. This map shows the boundary lines for each neighborhood association. SEE MAP