Public Conduct in Knoxville, TN: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Knoxville or are thinking about moving there, public conduct are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Knoxville has 5 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of public conduct, and some of them might surprise you.

Skateboarding Rules

Knoxville restricts skateboarding on Market Square, downtown sidewalks, and parking garages under City Code Chapter 35, while allowing it at Tyson Skate Park and designated areas.

Key details: City code: Chapters 21 and 35. Helmet under 16: Required. Skate parks: Tyson, Westwood. Sidewalk ban: Business districts.

Citations on Market Square or downtown sidewalks risk fines under $50, with confiscation possible for repeat offenses and trespass on private lots.

Public Urination

Public urination in Knoxville is prosecuted under City Code Chapter 21 disorderly conduct provisions and Tennessee indecent exposure statute TCA 39-13-511, with citations near Old City and Cumberland Avenue bars.

Key details: City code: Chapter 21. State statute: TCA 39-13-511. Hot spots: Old City, Cumberland. Typical penalty: Fine $50-$250.

First offenses typically draw municipal fines around $50-$250, but charges near minors or schools can elevate to state criminal charges with registry exposure.

Public Marijuana Use

Tennessee has not legalized recreational or medical marijuana, so all public cannabis use in Knoxville is illegal under state law TCA 39-17-418, with possession of any amount a criminal offense.

Key details: State status: Fully illegal. Statute: TCA 39-17-418. Half oz penalty: Class A misdemeanor. Hemp legal: Under 0.3% Delta-9.

Possession is a Class A misdemeanor, second offense possession greater than half ounce becomes felony, with public use adding charges.

Compared to other cities, Knoxville takes a harder line on public marijuana use. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Public Alcohol Use

Open containers of alcohol on Knoxville public sidewalks and streets are generally prohibited under City Code Chapter 4, with limited exceptions for permitted special events and entertainment districts.

Key details: City code: Chapter 4. State authority: TN ABC. Tailgate exception: Private lots. Game day: Heavy enforcement.

Open container in public is typically a Class C misdemeanor or municipal infraction with fines around $50-$200 plus possible court costs.

Outdoor Smoking Restrictions

Tennessee Non-Smoker Protection Act bans smoking in most enclosed workplaces, while Knoxville bans smoking in city parks, around playgrounds, and within 25 feet of public building entrances.

Key details: State law: TCA 39-17-1801. Park policy: Smoke-free. UT campus: Tobacco-free. Entrance buffer: 25 feet.

Park smoking can draw warnings or fines under $50; workplace violations under state law can fine the employer up to $500 per offense.

The Bottom Line

Knoxville's public conduct rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Knoxville is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Knoxville's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.