Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-2-107 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 2 / Section 70-2-107
Date of issuance of license or permit - Annual sport licenses - Establishment of annual license system
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Licenses and permits required under this and any other law relating to wildlife must be dated on the true date of issue. All annual sport licenses must be issued for the year beginning March 1 and ending the last day of February of the following year, both inclusive. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the fish and wildlife commission is authorized to promulgate rules to abolish license years and establish an annual license system. (b) In addition to the annual licenses authorized by subsection (a), the agency is authorized to issue any hunting, fishing, or trapping license for periods exceeding one (1) year. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 270, s 1, eff. 7/1/2021. Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 13; 1953, ch. 255, §§ 1, 2 (Williams, §§ 5178.42, 5178.45); 1957, ch. 323, §§ 5, 6; 1979, ch. 243, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-229; Acts 1990, ch. 981, § 4; 1999, ch. 102, § 5; 2005, ch. 360, § 1.
(a) (1) Licenses and permits required under this and any other law relating to wildlife must be dated on the true date of issue. All annual sport licenses must be issued for the year beginning March 1 and ending the last day of February of the following year, both inclusive. (2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the fish and wildlife commission is authorized to promulgate rules to abolish license years and establish an annual license system.
(1) Licenses and permits required under this and any other law relating to wildlife must be dated on the true date of issue. All annual sport licenses must be issued for the year beginning March 1 and ending the last day of February of the following year, both inclusive.
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), the fish and wildlife commission is authorized to promulgate rules to abolish license years and establish an annual license system.
(b) In addition to the annual licenses authorized by subsection (a), the agency is authorized to issue any hunting, fishing, or trapping license for periods exceeding one (1) year.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 270, s 1, eff. 7/1/2021.
Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 13; 1953, ch. 255, §§ 1, 2 (Williams, §§ 5178.42, 5178.45); 1957, ch. 323, §§ 5, 6; 1979, ch. 243, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-229; Acts 1990, ch. 981, § 4; 1999, ch. 102, § 5; 2005, ch. 360, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-8-313 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 8 / Section 70-8-313
Rules and regulations
Status: in_force

The commissioner is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this part. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, except as otherwise provided in this part. The commissioner of agriculture shall review all rules and regulations and shall concur before they become final. Acts 1985, ch. 242, § 14; T.C.A., § 11-26-213.
The commissioner is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to effectuate the purposes of this part. All such rules and regulations shall be promulgated in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, except as otherwise provided in this part. The commissioner of agriculture shall review all rules and regulations and shall concur before they become final.
Acts 1985, ch. 242, § 14; T.C.A., § 11-26-213.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-1-308 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 1 / Section 70-1-308
Political activity prohibited - Carrying of firearms authorized - Retention by retired personnel
Status: in_force

(a) No employee or officer of the agency shall take any active part in political management or in political campaigns, nor shall such employee or officer use official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with an election or affecting the results of an election, or for the purpose of coercing the political action of any person or body. (b) It is lawful for the commissioned personnel of the wildlife resources agency, regularly employed by the agency, acting through its executive director, to wear or carry pistols or other firearms. (c) After twenty-five (25) years of honorable service by a commissioned employee, the wildlife resources agency shall authorize the employee, upon retirement, to retain such employee's service weapon in recognition of the employee's many years of good and faithful service. A commissioned employee who retires on disability retirement also may be authorized to retain that employee's service weapon. Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 9; C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.8 (Williams, § 5120.27); Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 11, 21; Acts 1980, ch. 634, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 51-112, 51-130, 51-142.
(a) No employee or officer of the agency shall take any active part in political management or in political campaigns, nor shall such employee or officer use official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with an election or affecting the results of an election, or for the purpose of coercing the political action of any person or body.
(b) It is lawful for the commissioned personnel of the wildlife resources agency, regularly employed by the agency, acting through its executive director, to wear or carry pistols or other firearms.
(c) After twenty-five (25) years of honorable service by a commissioned employee, the wildlife resources agency shall authorize the employee, upon retirement, to retain such employee's service weapon in recognition of the employee's many years of good and faithful service. A commissioned employee who retires on disability retirement also may be authorized to retain that employee's service weapon.
Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 9; C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.8 (Williams, § 5120.27); Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 11, 21; Acts 1980, ch. 634, § 1; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), §§ 51-112, 51-130, 51-142.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-6-105 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 6 / Section 70-6-105
Mistake of fact not a defense
Status: in_force

In any prosecution for the violation of any of the provisions of this title, it is not a defense that the person killing, taking, selling, shipping or storing any animals, fish or birds was mistaken as to its variety, sex, age or size, it being one of the purposes of this section to penalize recklessness resulting in the violation of this title's provisions. Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 65 (Williams, § 5178.94); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-705.
In any prosecution for the violation of any of the provisions of this title, it is not a defense that the person killing, taking, selling, shipping or storing any animals, fish or birds was mistaken as to its variety, sex, age or size, it being one of the purposes of this section to penalize recklessness resulting in the violation of this title's provisions.
Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 65 (Williams, § 5178.94); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-705.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-3-107 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 3 / Section 70-3-107
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019. Acts 1937, ch. 84, § 48; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.57 (Williams, § 5176.49); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-309.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1937, ch. 84, § 48; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.57 (Williams, § 5176.49); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-309.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-3-110 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 3 / Section 70-3-110
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019. Acts 1937, ch. 84, § 51; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 10; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.60 (Williams, § 5176.52); impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-312.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1937, ch. 84, § 51; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 10; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.60 (Williams, § 5176.52); impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-312.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-8-109 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 8 / Section 70-8-109
Construction of provisions - Importation from other states - Validity and application of part
Status: in_force

(a) None of the provisions of this part shall be construed to apply retroactively or to prohibit importation into the state of wildlife that may be lawfully imported into the United States or lawfully taken or removed from another state or to prohibit entry into the state or possession, transportation, exportation, processing, sale or offer for sale or shipment of any wildlife whose species or subspecies is deemed to be threatened with statewide extinction in this state but not in the state where originally taken, if the person engaging in the importation demonstrates by substantial evidence that such wildlife was lawfully taken or removed from such state; provided, that this subsection (a) shall not be construed to permit the possession, transportation, exportation, processing, sale or offer for sale or shipment within this state of wildlife on the United States' List of Endangered Native Fish and Wildlife, compiled in 50 CFR, Part 17, Appendix D, as amended and accepted in accordance with § 70-8-105(c) , except as permitted in § 70-8-106(d) . All importations are subject to applicable state laws and regulations. (b) If any provision of this part or the application of this part to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of this part, and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby. This part shall not be construed as superseding any applicable federal statute. Acts 1974, ch. 769, § 9; T.C.A., § 51-909.
(a) None of the provisions of this part shall be construed to apply retroactively or to prohibit importation into the state of wildlife that may be lawfully imported into the United States or lawfully taken or removed from another state or to prohibit entry into the state or possession, transportation, exportation, processing, sale or offer for sale or shipment of any wildlife whose species or subspecies is deemed to be threatened with statewide extinction in this state but not in the state where originally taken, if the person engaging in the importation demonstrates by substantial evidence that such wildlife was lawfully taken or removed from such state; provided, that this subsection (a) shall not be construed to permit the possession, transportation, exportation, processing, sale or offer for sale or shipment within this state of wildlife on the United States' List of Endangered Native Fish and Wildlife, compiled in 50 CFR, Part 17, Appendix D, as amended and accepted in accordance with § 70-8-105(c) , except as permitted in § 70-8-106(d) . All importations are subject to applicable state laws and regulations.
(b) If any provision of this part or the application of this part to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of this part, and the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby. This part shall not be construed as superseding any applicable federal statute.
Acts 1974, ch. 769, § 9; T.C.A., § 51-909.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-8-314 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 8 / Section 70-8-314
Limitations on implementing provisions
Status: in_force

(a) No rule adopted under this part shall cause undue interference with normal agricultural and forestry practices. (b) Nothing in this part shall be construed to permit a person to violate any provision of federal law concerning federally protected endangered or threatened species. (c) Ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, is regulated under title 62, chapter 28 and is exempt from this part. (d) This part shall not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred or proceedings that were begun before July 1, 1985. Acts 1985, ch. 242, §§ 13, 15, 16; T.C.A., § 11-26-214.
(a) No rule adopted under this part shall cause undue interference with normal agricultural and forestry practices.
(b) Nothing in this part shall be construed to permit a person to violate any provision of federal law concerning federally protected endangered or threatened species.
(c) Ginseng, Panax quinquefolius, is regulated under title 62, chapter 28 and is exempt from this part.
(d) This part shall not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were incurred or proceedings that were begun before July 1, 1985.
Acts 1985, ch. 242, §§ 13, 15, 16; T.C.A., § 11-26-214.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-1-208 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 1 / Section 70-1-208
Fish and wildlife commission successor to wildlife resources commission
Status: in_force

The fish and wildlife commission created by this part is the successor to the wildlife resources commission. All rules, procedures, records, reports, functions and duties carried out by the prior commission are hereby transferred to the successor entity. Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 1.
The fish and wildlife commission created by this part is the successor to the wildlife resources commission. All rules, procedures, records, reports, functions and duties carried out by the prior commission are hereby transferred to the successor entity.
Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-211 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-211
Nets and other fishing equipment near mouth of watercourse - Penalty
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful for any person, while fishing, to use any nets, seines, snag lines, drag lines, grab hooks, or baskets, or any other form of fishing equipment, or other obstruction of any character to the free passage of fish within one hundred (100) yards of the mouth of any river, creek, slough, inlet or outlet, except bait or casting plugs with not more than three (3) treble hooks attached, ordinary fly fishing equipment, and pole and line with not more than three (3) single hooks attached. (b) For the purposes of this section, "mouth of a stream" means the location of a line resulting from the projection or extension of the banks of the main stream that receives the tributary, except in the case of streams entering waters impounded by hydroelectric or flood control dams, in which case the mouth of the entering stream is defined as the line where the free, downstream movement of natural water is visibly reduced or retarded by the level of the impounded waters in the main stream. (c) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1983, ch. 281, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is unlawful for any person, while fishing, to use any nets, seines, snag lines, drag lines, grab hooks, or baskets, or any other form of fishing equipment, or other obstruction of any character to the free passage of fish within one hundred (100) yards of the mouth of any river, creek, slough, inlet or outlet, except bait or casting plugs with not more than three (3) treble hooks attached, ordinary fly fishing equipment, and pole and line with not more than three (3) single hooks attached.
(b) For the purposes of this section, "mouth of a stream" means the location of a line resulting from the projection or extension of the banks of the main stream that receives the tributary, except in the case of streams entering waters impounded by hydroelectric or flood control dams, in which case the mouth of the entering stream is defined as the line where the free, downstream movement of natural water is visibly reduced or retarded by the level of the impounded waters in the main stream.
(c) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1983, ch. 281, § 1; 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-131 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-131
Possession of fish or wildlife illegally acquired, taken or transported from state or country of origin
Status: in_force

(a) It is an offense for any person to possess any fish or wildlife that has been defined as fish or wildlife by the state or country of origin knowing that the fish or wildlife was acquired, taken, or transported from the state or country of origin in violation of the laws or regulations of that state or country. (b) A violation of subsection (a) is a Class A misdemeanor. Acts 2007, ch. 82, § 1.
(a) It is an offense for any person to possess any fish or wildlife that has been defined as fish or wildlife by the state or country of origin knowing that the fish or wildlife was acquired, taken, or transported from the state or country of origin in violation of the laws or regulations of that state or country.
(b) A violation of subsection (a) is a Class A misdemeanor.
Acts 2007, ch. 82, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-1-310 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 1 / Section 70-1-310
Submission of fine in lieu of court appearance - Arrest or judgment of forfeiture possible
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever a person is issued a citation pursuant to § 40-7-118 for a misdemeanor violation of any provision of this title, title 69, chapter 9, or for any offense for which an arrest is authorized pursuant to this title, prior to the time set for the person to appear in court to answer the charge, the person cited may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit the fine and costs to the clerk of the court. The submission to fine must be with the approval of the court that has jurisdiction of such offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. The submission to fine shall not otherwise be exclusive of any other method or procedure prescribed by law for disposition of a citation. (b) If the person cited has not paid the citation upon submission to fine as provided in subsection (a) and the person cited fails to appear in court at the time specified, or such later date as may be fixed by the court, the court may issue a warrant for such person's arrest or may declare a judgment of forfeiture of the offense charged. The judgment of forfeiture shall in no case be more than the total amount of fine and costs prescribed by law for the offense and may be collected in the manner provided in § 40-24-105 . (c) This section shall not be applicable to any person arrested for a violation of any provision of this title, title 69, chapter 9, or any offense for which an arrest is authorized pursuant to this title, which is punishable by a fine of more than fifty dollars ($50.00) or by imprisonment for more than thirty (30) days. This section shall not supersede § 40-7-118 , nor shall they require the use of a citation in lieu of continued custody of an arrested person in any of the circumstances specified in § 40-7-118(d) . Acts 2001, ch. 249, § 4.
(a) Whenever a person is issued a citation pursuant to § 40-7-118 for a misdemeanor violation of any provision of this title, title 69, chapter 9, or for any offense for which an arrest is authorized pursuant to this title, prior to the time set for the person to appear in court to answer the charge, the person cited may, in lieu of appearance in court, submit the fine and costs to the clerk of the court. The submission to fine must be with the approval of the court that has jurisdiction of such offense within the county in which the offense charged is alleged to have been committed. The submission to fine shall not otherwise be exclusive of any other method or procedure prescribed by law for disposition of a citation.
(b) If the person cited has not paid the citation upon submission to fine as provided in subsection (a) and the person cited fails to appear in court at the time specified, or such later date as may be fixed by the court, the court may issue a warrant for such person's arrest or may declare a judgment of forfeiture of the offense charged. The judgment of forfeiture shall in no case be more than the total amount of fine and costs prescribed by law for the offense and may be collected in the manner provided in § 40-24-105 .
(c) This section shall not be applicable to any person arrested for a violation of any provision of this title, title 69, chapter 9, or any offense for which an arrest is authorized pursuant to this title, which is punishable by a fine of more than fifty dollars ($50.00) or by imprisonment for more than thirty (30) days. This section shall not supersede § 40-7-118 , nor shall they require the use of a citation in lieu of continued custody of an arrested person in any of the circumstances specified in § 40-7-118(d) .
Acts 2001, ch. 249, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-5-103 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 5 / Section 70-5-103
Acquisition of delinquent tax lands
Status: in_force

The agency or its authorized representatives are empowered and authorized to examine delinquent tax lists in the hands of the trustees of the various counties of the state, as well as the commissioner of revenue, and shall cooperate with the county trustees, the commissioner of revenue, or any back tax attorneys, in obtaining the sale of land and waters that, in its opinion, are suitable for state wildlife preserves, and shall cooperate with the governor in acquiring title to such lands and waters in the name of the state and the dedication of the lands and waters as state wildlife preserves. Acts 1937, ch. 252, § 2; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 10; C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.13 (Williams, § 5176.6); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 14; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-603.
The agency or its authorized representatives are empowered and authorized to examine delinquent tax lists in the hands of the trustees of the various counties of the state, as well as the commissioner of revenue, and shall cooperate with the county trustees, the commissioner of revenue, or any back tax attorneys, in obtaining the sale of land and waters that, in its opinion, are suitable for state wildlife preserves, and shall cooperate with the governor in acquiring title to such lands and waters in the name of the state and the dedication of the lands and waters as state wildlife preserves.
Acts 1937, ch. 252, § 2; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, § 10; C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.13 (Williams, § 5176.6); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 14; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; modified; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-603.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-118 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-118
Unlawful to hunt deer being chased by dogs or to permit dogs to hunt or chase deer - Confiscation of dogs - Penalties
Status: in_force

(a) No person shall knowingly hunt deer being chased by dogs nor shall any person knowingly and intentionally permit such person's dogs to hunt or chase deer. (b) Any officer of the wildlife resources agency may take into possession any dog known to have hunted or chased deer and shall notify the owner of the dog, or if the owner is unknown, shall advertise in a newspaper of general circulation in the county that the dog is in the officer's possession, giving the description of the dog and stating the circumstances under which it was taken. The officer shall hold the dog for a period of ten (10) days and shall report the facts in full to the director. (c) If, within ten (10) days, the owner claims the dog, the owner may repossess it on payment of the costs of advertising and the cost of keep. If the owner does not claim the dog within the above specified time, the dog shall be deemed ownerless and a public nuisance and shall be disposed of in the manner prescribed by the executive director. In this event, the costs of advertising and keep shall be paid by the agency. (d) Any person violating this section commits a Class B misdemeanor. It is mandatory upon the court to impose the prison sentence, and the minimum time is not subject to suspension, but may be served on such days designated by the judge. (e) Notwithstanding subsection (a), the commission is authorized to promulgate rules to allow for the use of dogs in tracking and recovering an injured or deceased deer. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 641,s 1, eff. 4/2/2018. Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 46 (Williams, § 5178.75); Acts 1961, ch. 198, § 2; impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 6, 7; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; 1981, ch. 199, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-428; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 891, § 15; 1990, ch. 981, § 3.
(a) No person shall knowingly hunt deer being chased by dogs nor shall any person knowingly and intentionally permit such person's dogs to hunt or chase deer.
(b) Any officer of the wildlife resources agency may take into possession any dog known to have hunted or chased deer and shall notify the owner of the dog, or if the owner is unknown, shall advertise in a newspaper of general circulation in the county that the dog is in the officer's possession, giving the description of the dog and stating the circumstances under which it was taken. The officer shall hold the dog for a period of ten (10) days and shall report the facts in full to the director.
(c) If, within ten (10) days, the owner claims the dog, the owner may repossess it on payment of the costs of advertising and the cost of keep. If the owner does not claim the dog within the above specified time, the dog shall be deemed ownerless and a public nuisance and shall be disposed of in the manner prescribed by the executive director. In this event, the costs of advertising and keep shall be paid by the agency.
(d) Any person violating this section commits a Class B misdemeanor. It is mandatory upon the court to impose the prison sentence, and the minimum time is not subject to suspension, but may be served on such days designated by the judge.
(e) Notwithstanding subsection (a), the commission is authorized to promulgate rules to allow for the use of dogs in tracking and recovering an injured or deceased deer.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 641,s 1, eff. 4/2/2018.
Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 46 (Williams, § 5178.75); Acts 1961, ch. 198, § 2; impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 6, 7; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; 1981, ch. 199, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-428; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 891, § 15; 1990, ch. 981, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-1-506 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 1 / Section 70-1-506
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 874,s 6, eff. 4/14/2022. Acts 1998, ch. 610, § 2.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 874,s 6, eff. 4/14/2022.
Acts 1998, ch. 610, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-1-312 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 1 / Section 70-1-312
Renewal of farming contracts for state owned land - Terms of renewal - Bidding not prohibited
Status: in_force

(a) If the wildlife resources agency contracts with a farmer to farm lands owned or under the control of this state under § 70-1-302(a)(6) or another law, not less than sixty (60) days before the expiration of the contract, the agency shall offer the farmer the opportunity to renegotiate the contract with the agency prior to accepting requests for proposals for the contract. (b) If the farmer and the agency agree to renew the contract, then the farmer may renew the contract for an additional three (3) five-year terms if the farmer and agency are able to agree to terms during each renewal period; provided, that, if the farmer has been under contract with the agency for twenty (20) or more consecutive years, upon the expiration of the next term of the contract, the farmer is not entitled to renegotiate the contract with the agency prior to the agency accepting requests for proposals for the contract. (c) Subsection (b) does not prohibit a farmer from bidding on a contract after being under contract with the agency for twenty (20) or more consecutive years. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 765,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
(a) If the wildlife resources agency contracts with a farmer to farm lands owned or under the control of this state under § 70-1-302(a)(6) or another law, not less than sixty (60) days before the expiration of the contract, the agency shall offer the farmer the opportunity to renegotiate the contract with the agency prior to accepting requests for proposals for the contract.
(b) If the farmer and the agency agree to renew the contract, then the farmer may renew the contract for an additional three (3) five-year terms if the farmer and agency are able to agree to terms during each renewal period; provided, that, if the farmer has been under contract with the agency for twenty (20) or more consecutive years, upon the expiration of the next term of the contract, the farmer is not entitled to renegotiate the contract with the agency prior to the agency accepting requests for proposals for the contract.
(c) Subsection (b) does not prohibit a farmer from bidding on a contract after being under contract with the agency for twenty (20) or more consecutive years.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 765,s 1, eff. 7/1/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-5-113 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 5 / Section 70-5-113
Reelfoot Lake - Water levels - Water level management plan
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Free" means the flow of water not under control, able to move in any direction, and not held or confined by an artificial gate or structure; (2) "Lake" means a standing body of open water that occurs in a natural depression fed by one (1) or more streams from which a stream may flow, that occurs due to the widening or natural blockage or cutoff of a river or stream, or that occurs in an isolated natural depression that is not a part of a surface river or stream. "Lake" also includes a standing body of open water created by artificially blocking or restricting the flow of a river or stream; (3) "Natural ordinary high water mark" means the line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, trees, shelving, changes in the character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas; (4) "Natural ordinary low water mark" means the line that constitutes the usual and common or ordinary stage of the river or lake, when the volume of water is not increased by rains or freshets, nor diminished below such usual stage or volume by long continued drought to extreme low water mark; and (5) "Navigable" means capable, in the ordinary stage of the water, of navigation ascending and descending, by such vessels as are employed in the ordinary purposes of commerce. (b) Notwithstanding this section or any law or regulation to the contrary, as first established by the Reelfoot Lake commission of 1925, it is hereby declared that the natural water levels of the navigable stream Reelfoot Lake are as follows: (1) The natural ordinary low water mark is two hundred eighty-two and four-tenths feet (282.4') mean sea level, which is also the top of the twenty (20) floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam; (2) The natural full pool level is two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level; and (3) The natural ordinary high water mark is two hundred eighty-five feet (285') mean sea level. (c) Notwithstanding any law or regulation to the contrary, there is hereby established the water level management plan for Reelfoot Lake. The waters of Reelfoot Lake shall flow freely or naturally across the top of the twenty (20) stoplog gates or floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam until the lake reaches an elevation of two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level. Once the lake exceeds such natural full pool level, the twenty (20) stoplog gates or floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam shall be opened to bring the lake back to its natural full pool level of two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level. In bringing the lake back to its natural full pool level, the Reelfoot Lake Barr fishway, or radial water control spillway, may also be used. (d) The water management plan established in subsection (c) shall remain in effect until a fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan for Reelfoot Lake is developed by the executive director of the agency and until enactment of such legislation as shall be necessary to implement such management plan. (e) The general assembly hereby expresses its general approval of the fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan for Reelfoot Lake developed by the executive director as required by subsection (d), and the agency is authorized and directed to promulgate the plan, or a similar fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan, as a rule in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Upon the effective date of such rule, the management plan contained in the rule shall supersede subsection (c) and any other subsections of this section that may be in conflict with the rule. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 61, s 4, eff. 7/1/2023. Acts 1986, ch. 670, § 2; 1989, ch. 369, §§ 1, 2.
(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Free" means the flow of water not under control, able to move in any direction, and not held or confined by an artificial gate or structure; (2) "Lake" means a standing body of open water that occurs in a natural depression fed by one (1) or more streams from which a stream may flow, that occurs due to the widening or natural blockage or cutoff of a river or stream, or that occurs in an isolated natural depression that is not a part of a surface river or stream. "Lake" also includes a standing body of open water created by artificially blocking or restricting the flow of a river or stream; (3) "Natural ordinary high water mark" means the line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, trees, shelving, changes in the character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas; (4) "Natural ordinary low water mark" means the line that constitutes the usual and common or ordinary stage of the river or lake, when the volume of water is not increased by rains or freshets, nor diminished below such usual stage or volume by long continued drought to extreme low water mark; and (5) "Navigable" means capable, in the ordinary stage of the water, of navigation ascending and descending, by such vessels as are employed in the ordinary purposes of commerce.
(1) "Free" means the flow of water not under control, able to move in any direction, and not held or confined by an artificial gate or structure;
(2) "Lake" means a standing body of open water that occurs in a natural depression fed by one (1) or more streams from which a stream may flow, that occurs due to the widening or natural blockage or cutoff of a river or stream, or that occurs in an isolated natural depression that is not a part of a surface river or stream. "Lake" also includes a standing body of open water created by artificially blocking or restricting the flow of a river or stream;
(3) "Natural ordinary high water mark" means the line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line impressed on the bank, trees, shelving, changes in the character of the soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas;
(4) "Natural ordinary low water mark" means the line that constitutes the usual and common or ordinary stage of the river or lake, when the volume of water is not increased by rains or freshets, nor diminished below such usual stage or volume by long continued drought to extreme low water mark; and
(5) "Navigable" means capable, in the ordinary stage of the water, of navigation ascending and descending, by such vessels as are employed in the ordinary purposes of commerce.
(b) Notwithstanding this section or any law or regulation to the contrary, as first established by the Reelfoot Lake commission of 1925, it is hereby declared that the natural water levels of the navigable stream Reelfoot Lake are as follows: (1) The natural ordinary low water mark is two hundred eighty-two and four-tenths feet (282.4') mean sea level, which is also the top of the twenty (20) floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam; (2) The natural full pool level is two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level; and (3) The natural ordinary high water mark is two hundred eighty-five feet (285') mean sea level.
(1) The natural ordinary low water mark is two hundred eighty-two and four-tenths feet (282.4') mean sea level, which is also the top of the twenty (20) floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam;
(2) The natural full pool level is two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level; and
(3) The natural ordinary high water mark is two hundred eighty-five feet (285') mean sea level.
(c) Notwithstanding any law or regulation to the contrary, there is hereby established the water level management plan for Reelfoot Lake. The waters of Reelfoot Lake shall flow freely or naturally across the top of the twenty (20) stoplog gates or floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam until the lake reaches an elevation of two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level. Once the lake exceeds such natural full pool level, the twenty (20) stoplog gates or floodgates at the Reelfoot Lake spillway dam shall be opened to bring the lake back to its natural full pool level of two hundred eighty-three and six-tenths feet (283.6') mean sea level. In bringing the lake back to its natural full pool level, the Reelfoot Lake Barr fishway, or radial water control spillway, may also be used.
(d) The water management plan established in subsection (c) shall remain in effect until a fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan for Reelfoot Lake is developed by the executive director of the agency and until enactment of such legislation as shall be necessary to implement such management plan.
(e) The general assembly hereby expresses its general approval of the fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan for Reelfoot Lake developed by the executive director as required by subsection (d), and the agency is authorized and directed to promulgate the plan, or a similar fifty (50) year comprehensive management plan, as a rule in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. Upon the effective date of such rule, the management plan contained in the rule shall supersede subsection (c) and any other subsections of this section that may be in conflict with the rule.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 61, s 4, eff. 7/1/2023.
Acts 1986, ch. 670, § 2; 1989, ch. 369, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-2-214 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 2 / Section 70-2-214
Training of hunting dogs - License requirements - Regulation of field trials - Penalty for violations
Status: in_force

(a) Any resident or nonresident who trains hunting dogs in this state shall purchase the appropriate hunting license, except when such person is competing in recognized field trials. (b) Raccoon dog field trials, retriever dog field trials, bird dog field trials, rabbit dog field trials, and foxhound field trials will be permitted only under rules and regulations promulgated by the fish and wildlife commission. The fish and wildlife commission is authorized to make all such rules or regulations, or both, in connection with the field trials as it may deem necessary to carry out this section. (c) Any violation of this section, or any violation of any rule or regulation promulgated by the fish and wildlife commission pursuant to this section, is a Class C misdemeanor and, upon conviction of the violation, shall be punishable by a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than fifty dollars ($50.00). Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 14; 1953, ch. 249, § 1; 1953, ch. 255, § 2 (Williams, §§ 5178.43, 5178.45); 1961, ch. 195, § 1; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-225; Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
(a) Any resident or nonresident who trains hunting dogs in this state shall purchase the appropriate hunting license, except when such person is competing in recognized field trials.
(b) Raccoon dog field trials, retriever dog field trials, bird dog field trials, rabbit dog field trials, and foxhound field trials will be permitted only under rules and regulations promulgated by the fish and wildlife commission. The fish and wildlife commission is authorized to make all such rules or regulations, or both, in connection with the field trials as it may deem necessary to carry out this section.
(c) Any violation of this section, or any violation of any rule or regulation promulgated by the fish and wildlife commission pursuant to this section, is a Class C misdemeanor and, upon conviction of the violation, shall be punishable by a fine of not less than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) nor more than fifty dollars ($50.00).
Acts 1951, ch. 115, § 14; 1953, ch. 249, § 1; 1953, ch. 255, § 2 (Williams, §§ 5178.43, 5178.45); 1961, ch. 195, § 1; Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-225; Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-8-201 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 8 / Section 70-8-201
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Ginseng Harvest Season Act of 1985". Acts 1985, ch. 177, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-26-101.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Ginseng Harvest Season Act of 1985".
Acts 1985, ch. 177, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-26-101.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-9-103 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 9 / Section 70-9-103
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Agency" means the Tennessee wildlife resources agency; (2) "Commission" means the Tennessee fish and wildlife commission; (3) "Director" means the executive director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency, the director's duly authorized representative, and, in the event of the director's absence or a vacancy in the office of director, the assistant director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency; (4) "Off-highway vehicle" or "OHV" means any off-road motorcycles, three or four-wheel all-terrain vehicles or dune buggies; (5) "Owner" means the person in whose name the OHV is owned; and (6) "Seller" means a person permitted to engage in the business of selling, offering to sell, soliciting or advertising the sale of either off-road motorcycles, three or four-wheel all-terrain vehicles or dune buggies, or any of these vehicles. Acts 2004, ch. 622, §4; 2012 , ch. 993, § 13.
For the purpose of this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Agency" means the Tennessee wildlife resources agency;
(2) "Commission" means the Tennessee fish and wildlife commission;
(3) "Director" means the executive director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency, the director's duly authorized representative, and, in the event of the director's absence or a vacancy in the office of director, the assistant director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency;
(4) "Off-highway vehicle" or "OHV" means any off-road motorcycles, three or four-wheel all-terrain vehicles or dune buggies;
(5) "Owner" means the person in whose name the OHV is owned; and
(6) "Seller" means a person permitted to engage in the business of selling, offering to sell, soliciting or advertising the sale of either off-road motorcycles, three or four-wheel all-terrain vehicles or dune buggies, or any of these vehicles.
Acts 2004, ch. 622, §4; 2012 , ch. 993, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-406 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-406
Liability for escape - Limitation of state's liability
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who keeps Class I wildlife is liable for any costs incurred by any person, city, county or state agency resulting from the escape from captivity of the animal or animals. (b) Neither the state of Tennessee nor any agency, employee or agent of the state of Tennessee is liable for any animal that expires, is injured or is destroyed. Neither the state of Tennessee nor any agency, employee or agent of the state of Tennessee is liable for any damage or injury caused by live wildlife under a permit issued pursuant to this part. Acts 1991, ch. 487, § 1.
(a) Any person who keeps Class I wildlife is liable for any costs incurred by any person, city, county or state agency resulting from the escape from captivity of the animal or animals.
(b) Neither the state of Tennessee nor any agency, employee or agent of the state of Tennessee is liable for any animal that expires, is injured or is destroyed. Neither the state of Tennessee nor any agency, employee or agent of the state of Tennessee is liable for any damage or injury caused by live wildlife under a permit issued pursuant to this part.
Acts 1991, ch. 487, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-408 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-408
Owners of unpermitted wildlife - Disposition of such wildlife
Status: in_force

Owners of unpermitted wildlife who do not qualify for a permit to possess such wildlife shall dispose of such wildlife to an approved recipient within thirty (30) days of notification by the agency. Each day of possession of unpermitted wildlife after such thirty-day period constitutes a separate violation. Acts 1991, ch. 487, § 1.
Owners of unpermitted wildlife who do not qualify for a permit to possess such wildlife shall dispose of such wildlife to an approved recipient within thirty (30) days of notification by the agency. Each day of possession of unpermitted wildlife after such thirty-day period constitutes a separate violation.
Acts 1991, ch. 487, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-2-224 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 2 / Section 70-2-224
Regulation of sport firing ranges
Status: in_force

The fish and wildlife commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing procedures and guidelines for the operation of wildlife resources agency sport firing ranges and establishing fees for use by the general public. The wildlife resources agency is authorized to contract for the operation and maintenance of the facilities. Moneys derived from the fees shall be deposited in the wildlife resources fund. The fee provisions of this section do not apply to outdoor sport firing ranges in operation prior to July 1, 1998. Acts 1998, ch. 1044, § 1; 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
The fish and wildlife commission is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing procedures and guidelines for the operation of wildlife resources agency sport firing ranges and establishing fees for use by the general public. The wildlife resources agency is authorized to contract for the operation and maintenance of the facilities. Moneys derived from the fees shall be deposited in the wildlife resources fund. The fee provisions of this section do not apply to outdoor sport firing ranges in operation prior to July 1, 1998.
Acts 1998, ch. 1044, § 1; 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-128 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-128
Posting notice of dove-baiting
Status: in_force

If any Tennessee wildlife resources agency officer or employee has reasonable cause to believe that a field has been unlawfully baited with grain or any mixture of any ingredients used as or for food purposes for the purpose of killing, injuring or capturing doves, then such officer or employee shall immediately post notices on such field in conspicuous locations that the field is baited and hunting is prohibited. If any such officer or employee discovers and fails to post such field in accordance with this section, no person shall be subject to prosecution for hunting on or over such field, notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary. The Tennessee wildlife resources agency and its officers and employees are exempt from civil liability in its actions in enforcement of this section. Acts 1983, ch. 167, § 1; 1984, ch. 535, § 1.
If any Tennessee wildlife resources agency officer or employee has reasonable cause to believe that a field has been unlawfully baited with grain or any mixture of any ingredients used as or for food purposes for the purpose of killing, injuring or capturing doves, then such officer or employee shall immediately post notices on such field in conspicuous locations that the field is baited and hunting is prohibited. If any such officer or employee discovers and fails to post such field in accordance with this section, no person shall be subject to prosecution for hunting on or over such field, notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary. The Tennessee wildlife resources agency and its officers and employees are exempt from civil liability in its actions in enforcement of this section.
Acts 1983, ch. 167, § 1; 1984, ch. 535, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-2-302 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 2 / Section 70-2-302
Approval from the Convention for the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES)
Status: in_force

The agency shall request approval from the Convention for the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) to establish a length limit of no less than thirty-six inches (36") and an annual season length no shorter than November 15 to April 15. Should the approval not be granted, the agency is authorized to negotiate conditions under which the approval would be granted. Acts 2011, ch. 338, § 1.
The agency shall request approval from the Convention for the International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) to establish a length limit of no less than thirty-six inches (36") and an annual season length no shorter than November 15 to April 15. Should the approval not be granted, the agency is authorized to negotiate conditions under which the approval would be granted.
Acts 2011, ch. 338, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-303 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-303
Injunctions - Damages - Construction
Status: in_force

(a) Any court may enjoin conduct that would be in violation of § 70-4-302 upon petition by a person affected or who reasonably may be affected by such conduct, upon a showing that such conduct is threatened or that it has occurred on a particular premises in the past and that it is not unreasonable to expect that under similar circumstances it will be repeated. (b) A court may award damages to any person adversely affected by a violation of § 70-4-302 , which may include an award for punitive damages. In addition to other items of special damage, the measure of damages may include expenditures of the affected person for license and permit fees, travel, guides, special equipment and supplies, to the extent that such expenditures were rendered futile by prevention of the taking of a wild animal. (c) No provision of this part shall be construed to prohibit or otherwise restrict any landowner, tenant, or employee of a landowner from engaging in normal activities on or normal use of the land or property, and such activities or use shall not be deemed unlawful pursuant to any provision of this part. No provision of this part shall be construed so as to interfere with the right of the landowner to prohibit trespass upon the landowner's property by any person. Acts 1985, ch. 100, § 4.
(a) Any court may enjoin conduct that would be in violation of § 70-4-302 upon petition by a person affected or who reasonably may be affected by such conduct, upon a showing that such conduct is threatened or that it has occurred on a particular premises in the past and that it is not unreasonable to expect that under similar circumstances it will be repeated.
(b) A court may award damages to any person adversely affected by a violation of § 70-4-302 , which may include an award for punitive damages. In addition to other items of special damage, the measure of damages may include expenditures of the affected person for license and permit fees, travel, guides, special equipment and supplies, to the extent that such expenditures were rendered futile by prevention of the taking of a wild animal.
(c) No provision of this part shall be construed to prohibit or otherwise restrict any landowner, tenant, or employee of a landowner from engaging in normal activities on or normal use of the land or property, and such activities or use shall not be deemed unlawful pursuant to any provision of this part. No provision of this part shall be construed so as to interfere with the right of the landowner to prohibit trespass upon the landowner's property by any person.
Acts 1985, ch. 100, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-4-111 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 4 / Section 70-4-111
Hunting or killing any big game during closed season - Penalty
Status: in_force

Any person who hunts or kills any big game during the closed season for such game commits a Class B misdemeanor. Acts 1943, ch. 103, § 1; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.35 (Williams, § 5176.22); Acts 1957, ch. 382, § 3; 1982, ch. 738, § 16; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-419; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 981, § 3.
Any person who hunts or kills any big game during the closed season for such game commits a Class B misdemeanor.
Acts 1943, ch. 103, § 1; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5178.35 (Williams, § 5176.22); Acts 1957, ch. 382, § 3; 1982, ch. 738, § 16; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-419; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 981, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-8-107 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 8 / Section 70-8-107
Rulemaking authority
Status: in_force

The fish and wildlife commission shall issue such regulations as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this part. Acts 1974, ch. 769, § 7; T.C.A., § 51-907; Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
The fish and wildlife commission shall issue such regulations as are necessary to carry out the purposes of this part.
Acts 1974, ch. 769, § 7; T.C.A., § 51-907; Acts 2012, ch. 993, § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 70-3-102 — TN Code / Title 70 / Chapter 3 / Section 70-3-102
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019. Acts 1937, ch. 84, §§ 42, 43; 1945, ch. 37, §1; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, §10; mod. C. Supp. 1950, §§5178.51, 5178.52 (Williams, §§ 5176.43, 5176.44); Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-302.
Repealed by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 509, s 1, eff. 7/1/2019.
Acts 1937, ch. 84, §§ 42, 43; 1945, ch. 37, §1; impl. am. Acts 1949, ch. 50, §10; mod. C. Supp. 1950, §§5178.51, 5178.52 (Williams, §§ 5176.43, 5176.44); Acts 1974, ch. 481, § 21; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 51-302.