Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-11-105 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11-105
Criteria for trails
Status: in_force

Criteria for establishing the different classes of trails named in § 11-11-104 shall be as follows: (1) State scenic trails shall traverse mostly scenic and natural areas and shall be of sufficient length that they cannot be traveled in one (1) day or less. Scenic trails shall be narrow paths causing the minimum disturbance to the natural environment, and shall be restricted to foot travel, with all other modes of locomotion prohibited, except as set forth in §§ 11-11-104(1) and 11-11-114 ; and (2) Horse and bicycle trails shall have a surface and overhead clearance appropriate for their designated mode of locomotion. Motorized vehicles of any kind shall be barred from foot, horse, and bicycle trails, except as set forth in § 11-11-114 . Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 5; T.C.A., § 11-1605.
Criteria for establishing the different classes of trails named in § 11-11-104 shall be as follows:
(1) State scenic trails shall traverse mostly scenic and natural areas and shall be of sufficient length that they cannot be traveled in one (1) day or less. Scenic trails shall be narrow paths causing the minimum disturbance to the natural environment, and shall be restricted to foot travel, with all other modes of locomotion prohibited, except as set forth in §§ 11-11-104(1) and 11-11-114 ; and
(2) Horse and bicycle trails shall have a surface and overhead clearance appropriate for their designated mode of locomotion. Motorized vehicles of any kind shall be barred from foot, horse, and bicycle trails, except as set forth in § 11-11-114 .
Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 5; T.C.A., § 11-1605.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-103 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-103
Classification and designation of areas - Administration of state park system - Division of parks and recreation
Status: in_force

(a) All parks, monuments and other areas used primarily for recreational purposes shall be properly classified under the supervision of the department of environment and conservation, and the department shall, upon approval of the classification, designate the areas comprising the state park system, the state park system to be administered through a division of parks and recreation in the department. (b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the state park designated as "Pickett State Park" is hereby redesignated as "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park." (2) The department shall erect suitable markers and/or affix suitable signs designating such park as the "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park." Acts 1937, ch. 266, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.3; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-303; Acts 1994, ch. 951, § 1.
(a) All parks, monuments and other areas used primarily for recreational purposes shall be properly classified under the supervision of the department of environment and conservation, and the department shall, upon approval of the classification, designate the areas comprising the state park system, the state park system to be administered through a division of parks and recreation in the department.
(b) (1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the state park designated as "Pickett State Park" is hereby redesignated as "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park." (2) The department shall erect suitable markers and/or affix suitable signs designating such park as the "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park."
(1) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the state park designated as "Pickett State Park" is hereby redesignated as "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park."
(2) The department shall erect suitable markers and/or affix suitable signs designating such park as the "Pickett Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Memorial State Park."
Acts 1937, ch. 266, § 3; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.3; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-303; Acts 1994, ch. 951, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-403 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-403
Acceptance of gifts
Status: in_force

The division of forestry is authorized to accept gifts, donations or contributions of land suitable for forestry purposes. Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 10; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.14 (Williams, § 630.15); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-409; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 13; T.C.A., § 11-4-109.
The division of forestry is authorized to accept gifts, donations or contributions of land suitable for forestry purposes.
Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 10; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.14 (Williams, § 630.15); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-409; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 13; T.C.A., § 11-4-109.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-411 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-411
Rural community fire protection program
Status: in_force

The division is authorized to give grants to rural communities for the purposes of organizing, training, and equipping participating volunteer fire control organizations. Funds may be made available annually to organizations on a matching cost share basis. To qualify for funding and/or equipment, organizations must enter into cooperative fire protection agreements with the division. The division is authorized to prepare policies and procedures for implementation of the program and to include in the annual budget request such funding as is necessary to implement this section. There are hereby authorized to be appropriated annually such sums as may be needed to implement the rural community fire protection program. Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 22.
The division is authorized to give grants to rural communities for the purposes of organizing, training, and equipping participating volunteer fire control organizations. Funds may be made available annually to organizations on a matching cost share basis. To qualify for funding and/or equipment, organizations must enter into cooperative fire protection agreements with the division. The division is authorized to prepare policies and procedures for implementation of the program and to include in the annual budget request such funding as is necessary to implement this section. There are hereby authorized to be appropriated annually such sums as may be needed to implement the rural community fire protection program.
Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 22.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-806 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-806
Management of lands acquired through tax sale
Status: in_force

When the state has acquired title to lands sold to satisfy liens for delinquent taxes, and same have been proclaimed and dedicated by the governor to the public use as state forests, the state forester shall have the same authority and power to administer and manage such lands as the state forester does lands which have been acquired by purchase, gift or otherwise. Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 9; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.13 (Williams, § 630.14); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-408; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 44, 47; T.C.A., § 11-4-108.
When the state has acquired title to lands sold to satisfy liens for delinquent taxes, and same have been proclaimed and dedicated by the governor to the public use as state forests, the state forester shall have the same authority and power to administer and manage such lands as the state forester does lands which have been acquired by purchase, gift or otherwise.
Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 9; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.13 (Williams, § 630.14); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-408; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 44, 47; T.C.A., § 11-4-108.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-11-110 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11-110
Reports of other agencies on activities that may affect trails
Status: in_force

All state agencies shall, promptly upon enactment of this chapter, inform the commissioner of any proceedings, studies, or other activities within their jurisdiction, and regardless of by whom requested, which are now in progress and which affect or may affect any of the trails specified in § 11-11-106 . They shall likewise inform the commissioner of any such proceedings, studies or other activities which are hereafter commenced or resumed before they are commenced or resumed and that may affect any initial component of, or later addition to, the system. Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 10; T.C.A., § 11-1610.
All state agencies shall, promptly upon enactment of this chapter, inform the commissioner of any proceedings, studies, or other activities within their jurisdiction, and regardless of by whom requested, which are now in progress and which affect or may affect any of the trails specified in § 11-11-106 . They shall likewise inform the commissioner of any such proceedings, studies or other activities which are hereafter commenced or resumed before they are commenced or resumed and that may affect any initial component of, or later addition to, the system.
Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 10; T.C.A., § 11-1610.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-14-115 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 14 / Section 11-14-115
Violations - Penalties
Status: in_force

(a) Whoever violates, fails, neglects or refuses to obey this part or rule or regulation promulgated hereunder may be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) for each day of such violation. (b) In addition to the foregoing criminal penalty, the general assembly finds that it is appropriate that there be the following civil sanction as well. Any person who commits any of the following acts or omissions is subject to a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000) per day for each day during which the act or omission continues or occurs: (1) Any damage or vandalism to any natural area; (2) The removal or destruction of any rare, threatened or endangered species of plants in any natural area; or (3) Any other violation of this part or the rules promulgated hereunder. (c) The commissioner, through the attorney general and reporter, may institute proceedings for assessment in the chancery court of Davidson County or in the chancery court of the county in which all or part of the violation occurred, in the name of the department. (d) In assessing the civil penalty, the court may consider the following factors: (1) Whether the civil penalty imposed will be a substantial economic deterrent to the illegal activity; (2) Damages to the natural area, including compensation for loss or destruction of any part of the area, resulting from the violation, as well as expenses involved in enforcing this section and the costs involved in rectifying any damage; (3) The cause of the violation; and (4) Any economic benefit gained by the violator. Acts 1971, ch. 116, § 15; T.C.A., § 11-1715; Acts 1998, ch. 1080, § 6; 2001, ch. 56, § 7.
(a) Whoever violates, fails, neglects or refuses to obey this part or rule or regulation promulgated hereunder may be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) for each day of such violation.
(b) In addition to the foregoing criminal penalty, the general assembly finds that it is appropriate that there be the following civil sanction as well. Any person who commits any of the following acts or omissions is subject to a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000) per day for each day during which the act or omission continues or occurs: (1) Any damage or vandalism to any natural area; (2) The removal or destruction of any rare, threatened or endangered species of plants in any natural area; or (3) Any other violation of this part or the rules promulgated hereunder.
(1) Any damage or vandalism to any natural area;
(2) The removal or destruction of any rare, threatened or endangered species of plants in any natural area; or
(3) Any other violation of this part or the rules promulgated hereunder.
(c) The commissioner, through the attorney general and reporter, may institute proceedings for assessment in the chancery court of Davidson County or in the chancery court of the county in which all or part of the violation occurred, in the name of the department.
(d) In assessing the civil penalty, the court may consider the following factors: (1) Whether the civil penalty imposed will be a substantial economic deterrent to the illegal activity; (2) Damages to the natural area, including compensation for loss or destruction of any part of the area, resulting from the violation, as well as expenses involved in enforcing this section and the costs involved in rectifying any damage; (3) The cause of the violation; and (4) Any economic benefit gained by the violator.
(1) Whether the civil penalty imposed will be a substantial economic deterrent to the illegal activity;
(2) Damages to the natural area, including compensation for loss or destruction of any part of the area, resulting from the violation, as well as expenses involved in enforcing this section and the costs involved in rectifying any damage;
(3) The cause of the violation; and
(4) Any economic benefit gained by the violator.
Acts 1971, ch. 116, § 15; T.C.A., § 11-1715; Acts 1998, ch. 1080, § 6; 2001, ch. 56, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-402 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-402
Purpose
Status: in_force

It is the purpose of the division to develop, implement, and promote those public forestry programs and policies that protect, conserve, and efficiently utilize the state's forest resources. Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 12.
It is the purpose of the division to develop, implement, and promote those public forestry programs and policies that protect, conserve, and efficiently utilize the state's forest resources.
Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 12.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-25-110 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 25 / Section 11-25-110
Initial meeting
Status: in_force

At the initial meeting of the board, the board and The Nature Conservancy shall undertake to develop and publish a written management plan for the authority, which shall be publicly available. The board has the power to employ engineers, surveyors, conservation experts, outdoor recreation experts, management experts, and other professionals necessary for such study, and to have prepared surveys, maps, profiles, plans and descriptions, and such other data as may be necessary. The plan shall consider whether, and to what extent, lands of the authority should be owned and managed as natural areas and/or wildlife management areas by the department of environment and conservation and the wildlife management authority, respectively. The authority may, in consultation with The Nature Conservancy, thereafter biennially review, revise, and republish its management plan. Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
At the initial meeting of the board, the board and The Nature Conservancy shall undertake to develop and publish a written management plan for the authority, which shall be publicly available. The board has the power to employ engineers, surveyors, conservation experts, outdoor recreation experts, management experts, and other professionals necessary for such study, and to have prepared surveys, maps, profiles, plans and descriptions, and such other data as may be necessary. The plan shall consider whether, and to what extent, lands of the authority should be owned and managed as natural areas and/or wildlife management areas by the department of environment and conservation and the wildlife management authority, respectively. The authority may, in consultation with The Nature Conservancy, thereafter biennially review, revise, and republish its management plan.
Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-25-117 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 25 / Section 11-25-117
Net earnings
Status: in_force

As a public body, no part of the net earnings of the authority remaining after payment of its expenses shall inure to the benefit of any individual, firm or corporation, except that in the event the board of directors of the authority shall determine that sufficient provision has been made for the full payment of the expenses, bonds, and other obligations of the authority, then any net earnings of the authority thereafter accruing shall be paid to the municipality or municipalities with respect to which the authority was organized; provided, that nothing contained in this section shall prevent the board of directors from transferring all or any part of its properties in accordance with the terms of any lease entered into by the authority. Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
As a public body, no part of the net earnings of the authority remaining after payment of its expenses shall inure to the benefit of any individual, firm or corporation, except that in the event the board of directors of the authority shall determine that sufficient provision has been made for the full payment of the expenses, bonds, and other obligations of the authority, then any net earnings of the authority thereafter accruing shall be paid to the municipality or municipalities with respect to which the authority was organized; provided, that nothing contained in this section shall prevent the board of directors from transferring all or any part of its properties in accordance with the terms of any lease entered into by the authority.
Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-19-103 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 19 / Section 11-19-103
Functions
Status: in_force

It is the function of the Great Smoky Mountains Park commission to: (1) Have the authority to confer with the national park service, as a representative of the state of Tennessee, with regard to policies of the national park service to be observed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; (2) Furnish informational services to the United States congress with reference to the needs of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park including, but not limited to, the end of obtaining financial appropriations for the park; (3) Cooperate with similar commissions in other states adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; (4) Urge the reasonable use of trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; (5) Maintain, to as great an extent as possible, the entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park free from commercial advertising and/or businesses; and (6) Take other action, as may be considered desirable, to preserve intact the natural beauty and scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This grant of power to the commission shall be construed liberally in favor of the commission taking any action which may be considered by it advantageous to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Acts 1974, ch. 503, § 3; T.C.A., § 11-1903; Acts 1980, ch. 494, § 1.
It is the function of the Great Smoky Mountains Park commission to:
(1) Have the authority to confer with the national park service, as a representative of the state of Tennessee, with regard to policies of the national park service to be observed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park;
(2) Furnish informational services to the United States congress with reference to the needs of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park including, but not limited to, the end of obtaining financial appropriations for the park;
(3) Cooperate with similar commissions in other states adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park;
(4) Urge the reasonable use of trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park;
(5) Maintain, to as great an extent as possible, the entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park free from commercial advertising and/or businesses; and
(6) Take other action, as may be considered desirable, to preserve intact the natural beauty and scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This grant of power to the commission shall be construed liberally in favor of the commission taking any action which may be considered by it advantageous to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Acts 1974, ch. 503, § 3; T.C.A., § 11-1903; Acts 1980, ch. 494, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-14-114 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 14 / Section 11-14-114
Reports from other agencies
Status: in_force

All state agencies shall, as areas are placed in this system, inform the commissioner of any proceedings, studies, or other activities within their jurisdiction and regardless of by whom requested which are then in progress and which affect or may affect any of the areas specified in § 11-14-105 . They shall likewise inform the commissioner of any such proceedings, studies or other activities which are thereafter commenced or resumed before they are commenced or resumed. Acts 1971, ch. 116, § 14; T.C.A., § 11-1714.
All state agencies shall, as areas are placed in this system, inform the commissioner of any proceedings, studies, or other activities within their jurisdiction and regardless of by whom requested which are then in progress and which affect or may affect any of the areas specified in § 11-14-105 . They shall likewise inform the commissioner of any such proceedings, studies or other activities which are thereafter commenced or resumed before they are commenced or resumed.
Acts 1971, ch. 116, § 14; T.C.A., § 11-1714.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-108 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-108
Authority to sell surplus park land - Authorization
Status: in_force

The department of environment and conservation is authorized to sell certain tracts of land which are surplus to the needs and benefit of the state of Tennessee, and now being used for state park purposes. The land shall be sold only upon authorization of the national park service, department of interior, and under such terms and conditions as it may require. Acts 1949, ch. 163, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.5B; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-308.
The department of environment and conservation is authorized to sell certain tracts of land which are surplus to the needs and benefit of the state of Tennessee, and now being used for state park purposes. The land shall be sold only upon authorization of the national park service, department of interior, and under such terms and conditions as it may require.
Acts 1949, ch. 163, § 1; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.5B; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-308.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-18-102 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 18 / Section 11-18-102
Jurisdiction retained by state - Purpose
Status: in_force

As to all lands acquired by the United States within this state for the purposes mentioned in § 11-18-101 or similar purposes, the state does not, by granting this consent, surrender or cede its legislative, executive and judicial jurisdiction over the same, but grants to the congress of the United States the right to enact such laws and make such rules and regulations as may be necessary to protect its title to and possession of such lands as may be acquired by it for such purposes, it being the intent of this section to establish a uniform consent and cession as to all lands owned or acquired by the United States within this state for the above mentioned and all other federal purposes, except those enumerated in the Constitution of the United States, article 1, § 8, to-wit: lands for the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dockyards and other needful buildings. Acts 1933, ch. 161, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 5201.3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-1002.
As to all lands acquired by the United States within this state for the purposes mentioned in § 11-18-101 or similar purposes, the state does not, by granting this consent, surrender or cede its legislative, executive and judicial jurisdiction over the same, but grants to the congress of the United States the right to enact such laws and make such rules and regulations as may be necessary to protect its title to and possession of such lands as may be acquired by it for such purposes, it being the intent of this section to establish a uniform consent and cession as to all lands owned or acquired by the United States within this state for the above mentioned and all other federal purposes, except those enumerated in the Constitution of the United States, article 1, § 8, to-wit: lands for the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dockyards and other needful buildings.
Acts 1933, ch. 161, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 5201.3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-1002.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-209 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-209
Dissolution
Status: in_force

In the event a citizens support organization dissolves, any funds remaining after dissolution shall be donated to the division of state parks and shall be deposited, as provided in § 11-3-208 , and applied for the provision or expansion of state park programs, services or facilities. Acts 1993, ch. 40, § 9.
In the event a citizens support organization dissolves, any funds remaining after dissolution shall be donated to the division of state parks and shall be deposited, as provided in § 11-3-208 , and applied for the provision or expansion of state park programs, services or facilities.
Acts 1993, ch. 40, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-116 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-116
Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park
Status: in_force

The Cumberland Trail State Park, established on June 22, 1998, is known as the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park. Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 38,s 1, eff. 3/23/2021.
The Cumberland Trail State Park, established on June 22, 1998, is known as the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park.
Added by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 38,s 1, eff. 3/23/2021.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-21-110 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 21 / Section 11-21-110
Dissolution of boards
Status: in_force

(a) A county conservation board created by petition and election as provided for in § 11-21-102 may only be dissolved after an election on the issue of dissolution. In the case that there has been an election on the issue of dissolution and a majority of the voters vote for dissolution, the board shall not be dissolved unless a resolution for dissolution be passed by the county legislative body. (b) A county conservation board created solely by action of the county legislative body may be dissolved by similar action. Notice of an action to dissolve such board must be given to the chair of such board at least thirty (30) days preceding a vote by the legislative body on the issue. Public notice of such pending action must also be given by notification published in the newspaper of circulation in the county on at least two (2) occasions within the thirty-day period preceding the vote by the legislative body. (c) Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (b), a board may be dissolved by action of the commissioner of environment and conservation after adequate hearing held after sixty (60) days written notice given to the county mayor and members of the board and upon any of the following findings: (1) The board has not met within a period of six (6) months; (2) A majority of the positions of the board members are unfilled or unappointed or a majority of persons on the board are sitting due to the failure of the county legislative body to appoint a successor; (3) The board has failed to file its annual report with the commissioner for two (2) successive years; or (4) Other similar findings which would indicate that the board is no longer bona fide or active. Acts 1984, ch. 813, §2; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2.
(a) A county conservation board created by petition and election as provided for in § 11-21-102 may only be dissolved after an election on the issue of dissolution. In the case that there has been an election on the issue of dissolution and a majority of the voters vote for dissolution, the board shall not be dissolved unless a resolution for dissolution be passed by the county legislative body.
(b) A county conservation board created solely by action of the county legislative body may be dissolved by similar action. Notice of an action to dissolve such board must be given to the chair of such board at least thirty (30) days preceding a vote by the legislative body on the issue. Public notice of such pending action must also be given by notification published in the newspaper of circulation in the county on at least two (2) occasions within the thirty-day period preceding the vote by the legislative body.
(c) Notwithstanding subsections (a) and (b), a board may be dissolved by action of the commissioner of environment and conservation after adequate hearing held after sixty (60) days written notice given to the county mayor and members of the board and upon any of the following findings: (1) The board has not met within a period of six (6) months; (2) A majority of the positions of the board members are unfilled or unappointed or a majority of persons on the board are sitting due to the failure of the county legislative body to appoint a successor; (3) The board has failed to file its annual report with the commissioner for two (2) successive years; or (4) Other similar findings which would indicate that the board is no longer bona fide or active.
(1) The board has not met within a period of six (6) months;
(2) A majority of the positions of the board members are unfilled or unappointed or a majority of persons on the board are sitting due to the failure of the county legislative body to appoint a successor;
(3) The board has failed to file its annual report with the commissioner for two (2) successive years; or
(4) Other similar findings which would indicate that the board is no longer bona fide or active.
Acts 1984, ch. 813, §2; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-1001 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-1001
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Prescribed Burning Act." Acts 2012, ch. 985, § 1.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Prescribed Burning Act."
Acts 2012, ch. 985, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-404 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-404
Purchase of land
Status: in_force

The division and each county, municipality or other political subdivision of the state are empowered to expend money from available sources to purchase or to aid in the purchase of areas of land for forestry purposes within the meaning of this chapter, such areas to become the property of the state, to be improved, cared for and administered by the division for such purposes respectively. Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.20 (Williams, § 630.23); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9 § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-415; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 14, T.C.A., § 11-4-115.
The division and each county, municipality or other political subdivision of the state are empowered to expend money from available sources to purchase or to aid in the purchase of areas of land for forestry purposes within the meaning of this chapter, such areas to become the property of the state, to be improved, cared for and administered by the division for such purposes respectively.
Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 18; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.20 (Williams, § 630.23); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9 § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-415; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 14, T.C.A., § 11-4-115.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-9-107 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 9 / Section 11-9-107
Funds deposited in state treasury - Disbursement
Status: in_force

Any federal, local or private funds which may be received under this part shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to an account for the purpose of carrying out this part. The funds in this account, unless otherwise directed by federal law, shall be disbursed in the usual manner as state funds. All disbursements are to be subject to the approval of the governor and of the commissioner of finance and administration. Acts 1965, ch. 181, § 7; T.C.A., § 11-1207.
Any federal, local or private funds which may be received under this part shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to an account for the purpose of carrying out this part. The funds in this account, unless otherwise directed by federal law, shall be disbursed in the usual manner as state funds. All disbursements are to be subject to the approval of the governor and of the commissioner of finance and administration.
Acts 1965, ch. 181, § 7; T.C.A., § 11-1207.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-803 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-803
Cooperation with executive director of wildlife resources agency
Status: in_force

The state forester, by and with the approval of the commissioner of agriculture, shall cooperate with the executive director of the wildlife resources agency in furtherance of the policy of this state to protect and propagate wild animals, wild birds and fish, and, by and with the consent of the commissioner, shall designate any state forest a game refuge or preserve, and is authorized to cooperate with the executive director of the wildlife resources agency in developing such state forests for the purpose of preserving and propagating the wildlife of this state. Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 19; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.21 (Williams, § 630.24); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 4, 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-416; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 41; T.C.A., § 11-4-116.
The state forester, by and with the approval of the commissioner of agriculture, shall cooperate with the executive director of the wildlife resources agency in furtherance of the policy of this state to protect and propagate wild animals, wild birds and fish, and, by and with the consent of the commissioner, shall designate any state forest a game refuge or preserve, and is authorized to cooperate with the executive director of the wildlife resources agency in developing such state forests for the purpose of preserving and propagating the wildlife of this state.
Acts 1937, ch. 280, § 19; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.21 (Williams, § 630.24); impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; impl. am. Acts 1974, ch. 481, §§ 4, 6; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-416; Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 41; T.C.A., § 11-4-116.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-22-101 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 22 / Section 11-22-101
Lakes - Counties may acquire suitable areas
Status: in_force

The legislative body of any county is authorized to acquire, by gift or purchase, any natural lakes or lands suitable for the construction of lakes, and to hold fee simple title in the name of the county. Acts 1937, ch. 219, §§ 1, 2; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5201.8 (Williams, §§ 5201.9, 5201.10); impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-801; Acts 2006, ch. 863, § 10.
The legislative body of any county is authorized to acquire, by gift or purchase, any natural lakes or lands suitable for the construction of lakes, and to hold fee simple title in the name of the county.
Acts 1937, ch. 219, §§ 1, 2; mod. C. Supp. 1950, § 5201.8 (Williams, §§ 5201.9, 5201.10); impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-801; Acts 2006, ch. 863, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-301 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-301
Legislative intent
Status: in_force

It is the legislative intent that people who use the state parks be given the opportunity to voluntarily contribute to the maintenance, renovation, promotion, expansion, recreational and educational programs, and operations of such parks. Each state park shall provide a collection point, box or other suitable arrangement at which park users may make donations to the state park fund, with the exception of those state parks that the commissioner of environment and conservation may certify as not being suitable for the collection of such fee. Acts 1998, ch. 1083, § 1.
It is the legislative intent that people who use the state parks be given the opportunity to voluntarily contribute to the maintenance, renovation, promotion, expansion, recreational and educational programs, and operations of such parks. Each state park shall provide a collection point, box or other suitable arrangement at which park users may make donations to the state park fund, with the exception of those state parks that the commissioner of environment and conservation may certify as not being suitable for the collection of such fee.
Acts 1998, ch. 1083, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-8-102 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 8 / Section 11-8-102
Chapter definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise: (1) "Board" means the Ocoee River recreation and economic development fund board created pursuant to § 11-8-104 ; (2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of environment and conservation or the commissioner's designee; (3) "Department" means the department of environment and conservation; (4) "Development fund" means the Ocoee River recreation and economic development fund; (5) "Nonprofit organization" means an entity that is exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to § 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 501(c) ), as it may be amended; (6) "Ocoee River management zone" means the area of land managed by the department in accordance with agreements with the Tennessee Valley authority and U.S. forest service; (7) "Ocoee River recreation fee" means the fee deposited in the development fund pursuant to the issuance of a permit as authorized in § 11-8-107(a) ; and (8) "Rafting season" means the time period within a calendar year commencing on the date of the first release of water from the Ocoee River dams for recreational purposes by the Tennessee Valley authority and concluding on the date of the last release of water from such dams for recreational purposes. Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 434, s 1, eff. 5/17/2017.
As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise:
(1) "Board" means the Ocoee River recreation and economic development fund board created pursuant to § 11-8-104 ;
(2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of environment and conservation or the commissioner's designee;
(3) "Department" means the department of environment and conservation;
(4) "Development fund" means the Ocoee River recreation and economic development fund;
(5) "Nonprofit organization" means an entity that is exempt from federal income taxation pursuant to § 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code ( 26 U.S.C. § 501(c) ), as it may be amended;
(6) "Ocoee River management zone" means the area of land managed by the department in accordance with agreements with the Tennessee Valley authority and U.S. forest service;
(7) "Ocoee River recreation fee" means the fee deposited in the development fund pursuant to the issuance of a permit as authorized in § 11-8-107(a) ; and
(8) "Rafting season" means the time period within a calendar year commencing on the date of the first release of water from the Ocoee River dams for recreational purposes by the Tennessee Valley authority and concluding on the date of the last release of water from such dams for recreational purposes.
Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 434, s 1, eff. 5/17/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-11-120 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11-120
Violations - Compelling compliance - Penalties
Status: in_force

(a) Whoever violates, fails, neglects or refuses to obey any provision of this chapter, or regulation or order of the commissioner may be compelled to comply with or obey the same by injunction, mandamus, or other appropriate remedy. (b) Whoever violates, fails, neglects, or refuses to obey any of this chapter or regulation or order of the commissioner may be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00) for each day of such violation. Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 20; T.C.A., § 11-1620.
(a) Whoever violates, fails, neglects or refuses to obey any provision of this chapter, or regulation or order of the commissioner may be compelled to comply with or obey the same by injunction, mandamus, or other appropriate remedy.
(b) Whoever violates, fails, neglects, or refuses to obey any of this chapter or regulation or order of the commissioner may be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars ($50.00) for each day of such violation.
Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 20; T.C.A., § 11-1620.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-8-106 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 8 / Section 11-8-106
Reimbursement of management costs incurred by county
Status: in_force

Any county that incurs costs for the management of the Ocoee River management zone shall submit a financial statement and justification for costs incurred to the board. The board shall reimburse such counties for all costs determined by the board to be reasonable. Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 434,s 1, eff. 5/17/2017.
Any county that incurs costs for the management of the Ocoee River management zone shall submit a financial statement and justification for costs incurred to the board. The board shall reimburse such counties for all costs determined by the board to be reasonable.
Added by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 434,s 1, eff. 5/17/2017.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-5-102 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 5 / Section 11-5-102
State geologist - Powers and duties - Geological survey
Status: in_force

It is the duty of the state geologist, subject to the approval of the commissioner of environment and conservation, to: (1) Organize and direct the work of the state geological survey in field and office; (2) Determine the character, order, and time of publication of the reports of the survey, and to direct the preparation, printing, and distribution of the same; (3) Arrange for cooperative work with the various federal and state scientific bureaus where such work shall redound to the interest of the people of the state; (4) Appoint such associates, assistants, and employees as may be necessary to carry out successfully and speedily the work of the survey; (5) Procure and have charge of the necessary field and office supplies and other equipment, and supervise the acquisition, care, and distribution of the collections of the state geological survey; and (6) Perform such other work as may be necessary to the successful conduct of the survey. Acts 1909, ch. 569, § 4; Shan., § 310a; 4; mod. Code 1932, § 625; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, §§ 56, 69; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-502.
It is the duty of the state geologist, subject to the approval of the commissioner of environment and conservation, to:
(1) Organize and direct the work of the state geological survey in field and office;
(2) Determine the character, order, and time of publication of the reports of the survey, and to direct the preparation, printing, and distribution of the same;
(3) Arrange for cooperative work with the various federal and state scientific bureaus where such work shall redound to the interest of the people of the state;
(4) Appoint such associates, assistants, and employees as may be necessary to carry out successfully and speedily the work of the survey;
(5) Procure and have charge of the necessary field and office supplies and other equipment, and supervise the acquisition, care, and distribution of the collections of the state geological survey; and
(6) Perform such other work as may be necessary to the successful conduct of the survey.
Acts 1909, ch. 569, § 4; Shan., § 310a; 4; mod. Code 1932, § 625; impl. am. Acts 1937, ch. 33, §§ 56, 69; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-502.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-11-117 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11-117
Administration of system - Maintenance
Status: in_force

(a) The Tennessee trail system shall be administered by the department according to the policies and criteria set forth in this chapter. (b) The department shall, in addition, have or designate the responsibility for maintaining the trails, building bridges, campsites, shelters, and related public-use facilities where required. Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 17; T.C.A., § 11-1617.
(a) The Tennessee trail system shall be administered by the department according to the policies and criteria set forth in this chapter.
(b) The department shall, in addition, have or designate the responsibility for maintaining the trails, building bridges, campsites, shelters, and related public-use facilities where required.
Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 17; T.C.A., § 11-1617.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-6-109 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 6 / Section 11-6-109
Private land - Trespass, vandalism, and unauthorized activities - Permission - Artifacts - Prohibited storage, dumping or littering
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be deemed an act of trespass and a Class A misdemeanor for any person, natural or corporate, to excavate and remove artifacts from the private land of any owner without first obtaining the owner's express permission. (b) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall excavate, damage, vandalize or remove any artifact from or otherwise alter or deface any site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites without first obtaining landowner permission. (c) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall sell, offer to sell, purchase or offer to purchase, or otherwise exchange any artifact from a site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites if the artifact has been removed or received in violation of this section. (d) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall store, dump, litter or otherwise dispose of any garbage, dead animal, sewage or toxic substance in any cave or sinkhole listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites. Acts 1970, ch. 468, § 9; T.C.A., § 11-1509; Acts 1984, ch. 801, § 2; 1989, ch. 591.
(a) It shall be deemed an act of trespass and a Class A misdemeanor for any person, natural or corporate, to excavate and remove artifacts from the private land of any owner without first obtaining the owner's express permission.
(b) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall excavate, damage, vandalize or remove any artifact from or otherwise alter or deface any site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites without first obtaining landowner permission.
(c) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall sell, offer to sell, purchase or offer to purchase, or otherwise exchange any artifact from a site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites if the artifact has been removed or received in violation of this section.
(d) No person, corporation, partnership, association or any other entity shall store, dump, litter or otherwise dispose of any garbage, dead animal, sewage or toxic substance in any cave or sinkhole listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites.
Acts 1970, ch. 468, § 9; T.C.A., § 11-1509; Acts 1984, ch. 801, § 2; 1989, ch. 591.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-12-102 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 12 / Section 11-12-102
Applicability
Status: in_force

This part only applies in those counties with a metropolitan form of government and in those counties with a population according to the 1970 federal census or any subsequent federal census of: not less than nor more than 11,650 11,675 23,460 23,485 35,450 35,475 50,675 50,700 250,000 300,000 Acts 1978, ch. 903, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-2001.
This part only applies in those counties with a metropolitan form of government and in those counties with a population according to the 1970 federal census or any subsequent federal census of:
not less than nor more than 11,650 11,675 23,460 23,485 35,450 35,475 50,675 50,700 250,000 300,000
not less than
nor more than
11,650
11,675
23,460
23,485
35,450
35,475
50,675
50,700
250,000
300,000
Acts 1978, ch. 903, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-2001.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-305 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-305
Self-sufficiency of revenue-generating facilities
Status: in_force

It is the legislative intent that the following types of revenue-generating facilities at state parks shall be self-sufficient by the fiscal year 2007-2008: marinas, campgrounds, golf courses, cabins, gift shops, restaurants and inns. "Self-sufficient" means that the revenue generated at all such facilities collectively is sufficient to cover all of the direct operational costs incurred at those facilities. Nothing in this section shall be construed to automatically require the closing of any park or facility which is not individually self-sufficient. Acts 2004, ch. 847, § 3.
It is the legislative intent that the following types of revenue-generating facilities at state parks shall be self-sufficient by the fiscal year 2007-2008: marinas, campgrounds, golf courses, cabins, gift shops, restaurants and inns. "Self-sufficient" means that the revenue generated at all such facilities collectively is sufficient to cover all of the direct operational costs incurred at those facilities. Nothing in this section shall be construed to automatically require the closing of any park or facility which is not individually self-sufficient.
Acts 2004, ch. 847, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-19-101 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 19 / Section 11-19-101
Great Smoky Mountains Park commission created - Meetings
Status: in_force

There is hereby created the Great Smoky Mountains Park commission to devote its attention to the problems of that portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which lies within this state and, to that end, shall be required to meet at least once every six (6) months to perform its functions. Acts 1974, ch. 503, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-1901; Acts 1980, ch. 494, § 1.
There is hereby created the Great Smoky Mountains Park commission to devote its attention to the problems of that portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which lies within this state and, to that end, shall be required to meet at least once every six (6) months to perform its functions.
Acts 1974, ch. 503, § 1; T.C.A., § 11-1901; Acts 1980, ch. 494, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-14-402 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 14 / Section 11-14-402
Acquisition priorities
Status: in_force

Priorities for wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition shall be directed jointly by the director of the wildlife resources agency and the commissioner of agriculture, or their designees. The two (2) shall meet periodically as needed to set the priorities for wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition, and no individual tract shall be purchased without the joint consent of the commissioner of agriculture and the director of the wildlife resources agency. The requirements of this section shall be met before any steps in wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition, as described in § 11-14-403 , are taken. Acts 1986, ch. 833, § 2.
Priorities for wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition shall be directed jointly by the director of the wildlife resources agency and the commissioner of agriculture, or their designees. The two (2) shall meet periodically as needed to set the priorities for wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition, and no individual tract shall be purchased without the joint consent of the commissioner of agriculture and the director of the wildlife resources agency. The requirements of this section shall be met before any steps in wetland and bottomland hardwood forest acquisition, as described in § 11-14-403 , are taken.
Acts 1986, ch. 833, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-106 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-106
Expenditures by political subdivisions
Status: in_force

Every county, municipality, and other political subdivision of this state is empowered to expend money from available sources to aid in the purchase of areas within the county, municipality or political subdivision for park purposes within the meaning of this part, the park to become the property of the state, to be improved, cared for and administered by the department of environment and conservation as a part of the state park system hereinabove mentioned; provided, that the governor and commissioner of environment and conservation shall have first agreed in writing to accept the same. Acts 1937, ch. 266, § 5; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.5; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-306.
Every county, municipality, and other political subdivision of this state is empowered to expend money from available sources to aid in the purchase of areas within the county, municipality or political subdivision for park purposes within the meaning of this part, the park to become the property of the state, to be improved, cared for and administered by the department of environment and conservation as a part of the state park system hereinabove mentioned; provided, that the governor and commissioner of environment and conservation shall have first agreed in writing to accept the same.
Acts 1937, ch. 266, § 5; C. Supp. 1950, § 630.5; impl. am. Acts 1959, ch. 9, § 11; impl. am. Acts 1963, ch. 169, § 3; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-306.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-11-111 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 11 / Section 11-11-111
Consideration of abandoned rights-of-way - Establishment of trail right-of-way boundaries
Status: in_force

The department shall review all formal declarations of railroad right-of-way abandonments by the interstate commerce commission, for possible inclusion into the state trails system. The commissioner shall, within three (3) years after the route of a trail or trail segment included in the system has been located, determine the boundaries of the right-of-way to be associated with that trail. Such boundaries shall be established in such a manner that they protect the scenic value of the trail. Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 11; T.C.A., § 11-1611.
The department shall review all formal declarations of railroad right-of-way abandonments by the interstate commerce commission, for possible inclusion into the state trails system. The commissioner shall, within three (3) years after the route of a trail or trail segment included in the system has been located, determine the boundaries of the right-of-way to be associated with that trail. Such boundaries shall be established in such a manner that they protect the scenic value of the trail.
Acts 1971, ch. 103, § 11; T.C.A., § 11-1611.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-7-105 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 7 / Section 11-7-105
Authority of board
Status: in_force

In carrying out the purposes of the trust fund, the board is authorized to do the following: (1) Acquire for the state, by purchase or by donation, and convey, sell, exchange, lease or otherwise transfer any interest in real property; the board, however, does not have the power of eminent domain; (2) Make grants or loans to state, federal or local governments and to nonprofit organizations, in order to carry out the purposes of this chapter, including, but not limited to, grants or loans provided to acquire a fee simple or other interest in real property; (3) Enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, other than grants or loans pursuant to subdivision (2), with state, federal and local governments, with private individuals and corporations, and with associations and organizations, as the trust fund may deem necessary or convenient for the fund to carry out the purposes of this chapter; (4) Adopt, amend and repeal bylaws; (5) Adopt policies and guidelines for the use of the trust fund, including the procedure for identifying projects, establishing conservation priorities and allocating money from the trust fund; (6) Make such studies and recommendations concerning the conservation programs and policies of the department of environment and conservation as it may deem appropriate to a sound conservation program; and (7) Take any other necessary actions to carry out this chapter. Acts 2005, ch. 444, §2; 2012 , ch. 986, § 24.
In carrying out the purposes of the trust fund, the board is authorized to do the following:
(1) Acquire for the state, by purchase or by donation, and convey, sell, exchange, lease or otherwise transfer any interest in real property; the board, however, does not have the power of eminent domain;
(2) Make grants or loans to state, federal or local governments and to nonprofit organizations, in order to carry out the purposes of this chapter, including, but not limited to, grants or loans provided to acquire a fee simple or other interest in real property;
(3) Enter into contracts and cooperative agreements, other than grants or loans pursuant to subdivision (2), with state, federal and local governments, with private individuals and corporations, and with associations and organizations, as the trust fund may deem necessary or convenient for the fund to carry out the purposes of this chapter;
(4) Adopt, amend and repeal bylaws;
(5) Adopt policies and guidelines for the use of the trust fund, including the procedure for identifying projects, establishing conservation priorities and allocating money from the trust fund;
(6) Make such studies and recommendations concerning the conservation programs and policies of the department of environment and conservation as it may deem appropriate to a sound conservation program; and
(7) Take any other necessary actions to carry out this chapter.
Acts 2005, ch. 444, §2; 2012 , ch. 986, § 24.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-9-104 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 9 / Section 11-9-104
Powers and duties of commissioner of environment and conservation
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner of environment and conservation may apply to any appropriate agency or officer of the United States for participation in or the receipt of aid from any federal programs respecting outdoor recreation. (b) The commissioner may enter into contracts and agreements with the United States or any appropriate agency thereof, keep financial and other records relating thereto, and furnish to appropriate officials and agencies of the United States such reports and information as may be reasonably necessary to enable such officials and agencies to perform their duties under such programs. (c) In connection with obtaining the benefits of such programs, the commissioner shall coordinate the commissioner's activities with and represent the interest of all agencies and subdivisions of the state having interest in the planning, development, and maintenance of outdoor recreation resources and facilities. Acts 1965, ch. 181, § 4; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(139); T.C.A., § 11-1204; Acts 1982, ch. 560, § 3.
(a) The commissioner of environment and conservation may apply to any appropriate agency or officer of the United States for participation in or the receipt of aid from any federal programs respecting outdoor recreation.
(b) The commissioner may enter into contracts and agreements with the United States or any appropriate agency thereof, keep financial and other records relating thereto, and furnish to appropriate officials and agencies of the United States such reports and information as may be reasonably necessary to enable such officials and agencies to perform their duties under such programs.
(c) In connection with obtaining the benefits of such programs, the commissioner shall coordinate the commissioner's activities with and represent the interest of all agencies and subdivisions of the state having interest in the planning, development, and maintenance of outdoor recreation resources and facilities.
Acts 1965, ch. 181, § 4; 1976, ch. 806, § 1(139); T.C.A., § 11-1204; Acts 1982, ch. 560, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-25-118 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 25 / Section 11-25-118
Dissolution of the corporation
Status: in_force

Whenever the board of directors of the authority, by resolution, determines that there has been substantial compliance with the purposes for which the authority was formed, and all bonds theretofore issued and all obligations theretofore incurred by the authority have been fully paid, then the members of the board of directors shall thereupon execute and file for record in the office of the secretary of state a certificate of dissolution reciting such facts and declaring the authority to be dissolved. Upon the filing of such certificate of dissolution, the authority shall stand dissolved, the title to all funds and properties owned by it at the time of such dissolution shall vest in the state, in the manner approved by the board and the state, and possession of such funds and properties shall forthwith be delivered to the state. Upon dissolution of the authority, any of its assets shall be distributed as shall be directed by the board and the state, but in no event shall such costs be distributed to any person other than a governmental entity. Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
Whenever the board of directors of the authority, by resolution, determines that there has been substantial compliance with the purposes for which the authority was formed, and all bonds theretofore issued and all obligations theretofore incurred by the authority have been fully paid, then the members of the board of directors shall thereupon execute and file for record in the office of the secretary of state a certificate of dissolution reciting such facts and declaring the authority to be dissolved. Upon the filing of such certificate of dissolution, the authority shall stand dissolved, the title to all funds and properties owned by it at the time of such dissolution shall vest in the state, in the manner approved by the board and the state, and possession of such funds and properties shall forthwith be delivered to the state. Upon dissolution of the authority, any of its assets shall be distributed as shall be directed by the board and the state, but in no event shall such costs be distributed to any person other than a governmental entity.
Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-12-208 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 12 / Section 11-12-208
Funding
Status: in_force

Any expenditures required under this part shall be from departmental appropriations made in the general appropriations act. Acts 1980, ch. 835, § 9; T.C.A., §§ 53-6908, 68-51-108.
Any expenditures required under this part shall be from departmental appropriations made in the general appropriations act.
Acts 1980, ch. 835, § 9; T.C.A., §§ 53-6908, 68-51-108.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-3-114 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 3 / Section 11-3-114
Clear-cutting
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner of environment and conservation shall prohibit the forestry practice of clear-cutting in all state parks. The department of environment and conservation shall not conduct clear-cutting operations in such parks, nor permit any other person or lessee to conduct clear-cutting operations in such parks. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), clear-cutting may be permitted in state parks in cases of natural disaster or insect infestation provided that the department of environment and conservation has determined prior to any such clear-cutting that it is a reasonable and appropriate response to such disaster or infestation and that it is consistent with the department's duty to preserve and maintain the parks. Such clear-cutting may occur only in a manner approved in advance by the department. Acts 2002, ch. 608, §§ 1, 2.
(a) The commissioner of environment and conservation shall prohibit the forestry practice of clear-cutting in all state parks. The department of environment and conservation shall not conduct clear-cutting operations in such parks, nor permit any other person or lessee to conduct clear-cutting operations in such parks.
(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), clear-cutting may be permitted in state parks in cases of natural disaster or insect infestation provided that the department of environment and conservation has determined prior to any such clear-cutting that it is a reasonable and appropriate response to such disaster or infestation and that it is consistent with the department's duty to preserve and maintain the parks. Such clear-cutting may occur only in a manner approved in advance by the department.
Acts 2002, ch. 608, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-6-105 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 6 / Section 11-6-105
Excavation of state lands - Permits - Unauthorized excavation - Penalty
Status: in_force

(a) The state of Tennessee reserves to itself the exclusive right and privilege of field archaeology on sites owned or controlled by the state, its agencies, departments, institutions and commissions in order to protect and preserve archaeological and scientific information, matter and artifacts. (b) All such information and artifacts recovered from state lands shall be utilized solely for scientific or public educational purposes and shall remain the property of the state, unless the state archaeologist and the advisory council shall conclude that some artifacts do not merit retention. (c) No person or organization, including any other agents or agencies of the state of Tennessee, unless acting as a duly authorized agent of the division of archaeology, shall excavate upon any site situated on lands owned or controlled by the state or any agency thereof. (d) Permits and contracts for archaeological exploration or excavation may be granted by the state archaeologist through the division for such periods of time and under such terms and conditions as the state archaeologist may from time to time determine. (e) All artifacts, photographs and records obtained by such agents shall remain the property of the state, subject to the decision of the state archaeologist and the advisory council, and shall be maintained in agreed upon public repositories. (f) Any person, corporation, society or organization conducting such explorations or excavations upon lands owned or controlled by the state or any agency thereof without having first obtained permit from the state archaeologist commits a Class A misdemeanor, except that any violation occurring on a site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites where the commercial or archaeological value of the artifact involved and the cost of restoration or repair of such archaeological site or artifact exceeds the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000) is a Class E felony. (g) Any and all artifacts and material excavated by such person or organization shall be forfeited to the state and shall be delivered forthwith to the division. Acts 1970, ch. 468, § 5; 1973, ch. 77, § 2; T.C.A., § 11-1505; Acts 1984, ch. 801, § 1; 1990, ch. 852, §§ 6, 7.
(a) The state of Tennessee reserves to itself the exclusive right and privilege of field archaeology on sites owned or controlled by the state, its agencies, departments, institutions and commissions in order to protect and preserve archaeological and scientific information, matter and artifacts.
(b) All such information and artifacts recovered from state lands shall be utilized solely for scientific or public educational purposes and shall remain the property of the state, unless the state archaeologist and the advisory council shall conclude that some artifacts do not merit retention.
(c) No person or organization, including any other agents or agencies of the state of Tennessee, unless acting as a duly authorized agent of the division of archaeology, shall excavate upon any site situated on lands owned or controlled by the state or any agency thereof.
(d) Permits and contracts for archaeological exploration or excavation may be granted by the state archaeologist through the division for such periods of time and under such terms and conditions as the state archaeologist may from time to time determine.
(e) All artifacts, photographs and records obtained by such agents shall remain the property of the state, subject to the decision of the state archaeologist and the advisory council, and shall be maintained in agreed upon public repositories.
(f) Any person, corporation, society or organization conducting such explorations or excavations upon lands owned or controlled by the state or any agency thereof without having first obtained permit from the state archaeologist commits a Class A misdemeanor, except that any violation occurring on a site listed in the Tennessee register of archaeological sites where the commercial or archaeological value of the artifact involved and the cost of restoration or repair of such archaeological site or artifact exceeds the sum of five thousand dollars ($5,000) is a Class E felony.
(g) Any and all artifacts and material excavated by such person or organization shall be forfeited to the state and shall be delivered forthwith to the division.
Acts 1970, ch. 468, § 5; 1973, ch. 77, § 2; T.C.A., § 11-1505; Acts 1984, ch. 801, § 1; 1990, ch. 852, §§ 6, 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-9-203 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 9 / Section 11-9-203
Budget
Status: in_force

(a) The total budget for this program in its first year of operation shall be: (1) Three (3) new recreation programs at twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) each; and (2) Administrative costs of eight thousand dollars ($8,000) for each department; for a total of ninety-nine thousand dollars ($99,000) expended by the state in the first year of the program. (b) The implementation of this part is subject to funding in the general appropriations act. Acts 1995, ch. 540, § 4.
(a) The total budget for this program in its first year of operation shall be: (1) Three (3) new recreation programs at twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) each; and (2) Administrative costs of eight thousand dollars ($8,000) for each department; for a total of ninety-nine thousand dollars ($99,000) expended by the state in the first year of the program.
(1) Three (3) new recreation programs at twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) each; and
(2) Administrative costs of eight thousand dollars ($8,000) for each department; for a total of ninety-nine thousand dollars ($99,000) expended by the state in the first year of the program.
for a total of ninety-nine thousand dollars ($99,000) expended by the state in the first year of the program.
(b) The implementation of this part is subject to funding in the general appropriations act.
Acts 1995, ch. 540, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-4-405 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 4 / Section 11-4-405
Forest protection
Status: in_force

The division is authorized to implement and develop programs to protect the state's forests. Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 16.
The division is authorized to implement and develop programs to protect the state's forests.
Acts 1986, ch. 652, § 16.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-25-105 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 25 / Section 11-25-105
Filing of charter
Status: in_force

The authority shall file its charter with the secretary of state pursuant to title 48, chapter 51. The charter shall be placed on record in the office of the register of deeds of Johnson County. Upon such recordation of its charter, the authority shall be authorized to function in accordance with its charter and of this chapter. Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
The authority shall file its charter with the secretary of state pursuant to title 48, chapter 51. The charter shall be placed on record in the office of the register of deeds of Johnson County. Upon such recordation of its charter, the authority shall be authorized to function in accordance with its charter and of this chapter.
Acts 2012, ch. 1106, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 11-24-102 — TN Code / Title 11 / Chapter 24 / Section 11-24-102
Dedication and acquisition of property for recreational purposes
Status: in_force

The governing body of any city or town, or county, or any school district, may dedicate and set apart for use as playgrounds, recreation centers, and other recreational purposes, any lands or buildings, or both, owned or leased by such municipality and not dedicated or devoted to another and inconsistent public use, and such municipality may, in such manner as may now or hereafter be authorized or provided by law for the acquisition of lands or buildings for public purposes, acquire or lease lands or buildings, or both, for such recreational purposes, or if there is no law authorizing such acquisition or leasing of such lands or buildings, the governing body of any such municipality is hereby empowered to acquire lands or buildings, or both, for such purposes by gift, purchase, condemnation or lease. Acts 1937, ch. 307, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 3516.2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-902.
The governing body of any city or town, or county, or any school district, may dedicate and set apart for use as playgrounds, recreation centers, and other recreational purposes, any lands or buildings, or both, owned or leased by such municipality and not dedicated or devoted to another and inconsistent public use, and such municipality may, in such manner as may now or hereafter be authorized or provided by law for the acquisition of lands or buildings for public purposes, acquire or lease lands or buildings, or both, for such recreational purposes, or if there is no law authorizing such acquisition or leasing of such lands or buildings, the governing body of any such municipality is hereby empowered to acquire lands or buildings, or both, for such purposes by gift, purchase, condemnation or lease.
Acts 1937, ch. 307, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 3516.2; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 11-902.