This lesson attempts to identify and introduce learners to key ideas of local governing in Tennessee. It is hopeful that by adding clarity, students will recognize the complexities of governance and have an improved understanding of local government in Tennessee as well as increased motivation to learn more and become civically involved. Civic engagement is critical to a healthy democracy. It is also practically beneficial to the individual to be civically informed, because one day, in your not so far off future, a government official might tell you, “You need a permit for that!”