Tennessee NARR State Affiliate (TN-ARR) | Complete Guide

Tennessee NARR State Affiliate: Complete Guide to TN-ARR Certification

The Tennessee Alliance of Recovery Residences (TN-ARR) serves as the official NARR state affiliate for Tennessee, providing certification and support for recovery residences throughout the state. This comprehensive guide covers everything operators need to know about TN-ARR certification, requirements, and the benefits of becoming a certified recovery residence in Tennessee.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to TN-ARR
2. About the Tennessee Alliance of Recovery Residences
3. Certification Levels
4. How to Get Certified
5. Benefits of Certification
6. Tennessee-Specific Regulations
7. Contact Information
8. Related Resources

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Introduction to TN-ARR

The Tennessee Alliance of Recovery Residences (TN-ARR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to promote the availability of high-quality recovery housing across Tennessee. As the official state affiliate of the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), TN-ARR ensures that certified recovery residences meet nationally recognized standards for safety, quality, and accountability.

TN-ARR provides a network of experienced, reliable, and accountable recovery homes for individuals seeking long-term recovery from substance use disorders. The organization also offers mentoring, education, and training for both new and existing recovery home operators.

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About the Tennessee Alliance of Recovery Residences

Mission and Vision

TN-ARR’s mission is to support recovery residences in Tennessee by providing certification based on NARR’s national quality standards. The organization works to ensure that individuals in recovery have access to safe, supportive housing environments that promote dignity, respect, and long-term sobriety.

Key Functions

• Certification: Evaluating and certifying recovery residences that meet NARR standards
• Education: Providing training and resources for recovery home operators
• Advocacy: Working with state agencies and lawmakers to support recovery housing
• Networking: Connecting operators with resources and peer support
• Quality Assurance: Conducting regular inspections and reviews to maintain standards

Regional Structure

TN-ARR organizes its services across multiple regions throughout Tennessee, ensuring operators across the state have access to local support and resources. This regional approach allows for more personalized assistance and community engagement.

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Certification Levels

TN-ARR currently certifies recovery residences at NARR Levels I and II. Homes operating at Levels III or IV, which include clinical services, must be licensed by the state of Tennessee rather than certified through TN-ARR.

Level I: Peer-Run Recovery Residence

• Structure: Democratically run with shared leadership among residents
• Staffing: No live-in staff required; peer-managed environment
• Services: Focus on peer support and mutual accountability
• Best For: Individuals who need minimal structure and have established recovery foundations

Level II: Monitored Recovery Residence

• Structure: Live-in house manager or supervisor provides structure
• Staffing: Staff member present but does not provide clinical services
• Services: Structured schedule, house meetings, and accountability measures
• Best For: Individuals who benefit from additional oversight while maintaining independence

Important Note on Levels III and IV

Recovery residences that offer clinical services, therapy, medical services, or treatment on-site cannot be certified through TN-ARR. These facilities require state licensure through the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (TDMHSAS).

However, housing operated by treatment programs may be eligible for TN-ARR certification if the housing is physically and operationally separate from clinical services.

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How to Get Certified

Step 1: Review NARR Standards

Before applying, operators should thoroughly review NARR’s national quality standards, which cover:

• Administrative policies and procedures
• Resident rights and responsibilities
• Physical environment requirements
• Health and safety protocols
• Staff qualifications and training
• Financial management practices

Step 2: Prepare Documentation

Gather all required documentation, including:

• Proof of business registration and legal structure
• Insurance documentation (liability coverage)
• Resident handbook with house rules and expectations
• Resident rights policy
• Non-discrimination policy
• Financial policies and fee structures
• Staff qualifications and job descriptions
• Emergency response procedures

Step 3: Submit Application

Complete and submit the TN-ARR certification application through their official website. The application requires detailed information about your residence’s operations, policies, and governance structure.

Step 4: On-Site Inspection

TN-ARR conducts comprehensive on-site inspections to verify compliance with safety standards and operational requirements. Inspectors evaluate:

• Physical condition of the residence
• Safety features (smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, egress)
• Documentation and record-keeping practices
• Staff knowledge of policies and procedures
• Resident interviews (when appropriate)

Step 5: Certification Decision

After review, TN-ARR will issue one of the following decisions:

• Full Certification: Residence meets all standards
• Provisional Certification: Minor issues requiring correction
• Denial: Significant deficiencies requiring substantial changes before reapplication

Step 6: Annual Renewal

Certified homes must undergo annual reviews to maintain certification status. This ensures ongoing compliance with quality standards and allows for continuous improvement.

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Benefits of Certification

Credibility and Trust

TN-ARR certification signals to residents, families, and referral sources that your recovery residence meets nationally recognized quality standards. This builds trust and differentiates your home from non-certified facilities.

Referral Network Access

Certified homes gain access to referral networks from treatment centers, courts, probation officers, and healthcare providers who prefer placing clients in quality-assured environments.

Training and Resources

TN-ARR provides ongoing education and training opportunities for certified operators, including:

• NARR 3.0 Standards training
• Best practices workshops
• Policy development support
• Networking events and conferences

Advocacy Support

TN-ARR advocates for recovery housing at the state level, working to create a supportive regulatory environment and funding opportunities for certified residences.

Quality Improvement

The certification process helps operators identify areas for improvement and implement best practices that enhance resident outcomes and operational efficiency.

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Tennessee-Specific Regulations

Zoning Considerations

Tennessee law (TN Code Section 13-24-102) defines recovery residences with up to eight unrelated residents with disabilities, plus up to three staff or guardians, as single-family residences for zoning purposes. This provides important protections under the Fair Housing Act.

However, 2025 Public Chapter 503 allows for local variation in zoning ordinances. Operators should check with their local zoning authorities before opening a recovery residence.

Building and Fire Codes

Recovery homes in Tennessee must comply with state building and fire codes. Requirements vary based on occupancy classification and local adoption of Group R standards. Operators should have early conversations with local building and fire officials to understand requirements for:

• Fire alarms and detection systems
• Emergency egress
• Occupancy limits
• Safety equipment

Fair Housing Protections

Recovery residences in Tennessee are protected under both federal and state fair housing laws. Individuals in recovery from substance use disorders are considered persons with disabilities and are entitled to reasonable accommodations in housing.

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Contact Information

Tennessee Alliance of Recovery Residences (TN-ARR)

• Website: https://www.tnarr.org
• Address: 4003 Murphy Road, Nashville, TN
• Certification Information: https://www.tnarr.org/affilliate-certification
• Training Opportunities: https://www.tnarr.org/training

National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR)

• Website: https://narronline.org
• TN-ARR Affiliate Page: https://narronline.org/affiliate/tennessee-alliance-of-recovery-residences/

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Streamline Your Operations with Sober Living App

Managing a certified recovery residence requires tracking numerous compliance requirements, resident data, and operational details. Sober Living App provides purpose-built software for recovery housing operators, helping you:

• Track Certification Requirements: Stay organized with compliance documentation and inspection schedules
• Manage Resident Records: Securely store resident information, agreements, and progress notes
• Streamline Billing: Automate rent collection and financial tracking
• Generate Reports: Create reports for inspections, audits, and stakeholder communications
• Coordinate Drug Testing: Track and schedule drug testing with ease

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Related Resources

Looking for more information about opening and operating a recovery residence in Tennessee? Check out these related articles:

• 5 Things Every Tennessee Sober Living Home Business Startup Should Know
• NARR Affiliate Updates for Washington, Arizona, and Tennessee Sober Living Homes
• Opioid Settlement Funding Updates for Sober Living Homes in Tennessee, Minnesota, Texas, California, Florida, and Ohio

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Last Updated: January 22, 2026

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Requirements and regulations may change. Please verify current information with TN-ARR and relevant state agencies.