Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Under existing law, it is a Class A misdemeanor for any person to possess or carry a handgun in a public park, playground, civic center or other property owned, used or operated by a municipal, county or state government for recreational purposes. The prohibition, however, does not apply to peace officers, soldiers, security guards, hunters, persons attending gun shows or persons delivering or picking up passengers.

A new law taking effect on September 1 will allow handgun permit holders to possess a handgun while in parks, natural areas, campgrounds and similar public places. However, under the new law, local governments are allowed to prohibit such possession in parks and similar areas owned by local government, upon a majority vote by its legislative body. The new law amends TCA § 39-13-70.

According to the July 13th issue of the Knoxville News Sentinel, municipal authorities in Dandridge, Jefferson County, are considering opting out of the new law because of a 2006 incident where three adults were shot at a city ball park known as the “Field of Dreams.” Knox County officials are also considering an ordinance that will prohibit guns in ball parks. It is unclear whether Mayor Haslam will support the ordinance. In Blount County, there are no plans to propose an ordinance. The new law does not affect Sevier County because it has no parks.

If you have been charged with a hand gun crime, consult the experienced Tennessee criminal defense attorneys at Baker Associates to see what legal action can be carried out to defend your rights.