Memphis cannot enact local firearm ordinances — Tennessee Code Section 39-17-1314 preempts the entire field of firearm transfer, ownership, possession, transportation, and ammunition regulation. Statewide rules apply uniformly inside Memphis.
Tenn. Code Sec. 39-17-1314 forbids any city, county, or urban-county government from 'occupy[ing] any part of the field of regulation of the transfer, ownership, possession or transportation of firearms, ammunition or components of firearms.' Memphis voters approved three referenda in 2024 (gun-permit requirement, assault-weapons ban, extreme-risk protection orders) that the city government acknowledged are not currently enforceable because of state preemption; they would only take effect if the General Assembly amends Sec. 39-17-1314 to allow them. Memphis retains narrow authority to restrict firearm carry on its own property under Sec. 39-17-1359 with mandatory posting, and to apply generally applicable zoning to firearm dealers. Statewide, Tennessee became a permitless (constitutional) carry state in 2021 for adults 21+ and expanded eligibility to 18+ in 2024.
Any Memphis ordinance conflicting with Sec. 39-17-1314 is void and unenforceable. The statute authorizes individuals affected by a violating ordinance to seek declaratory and injunctive relief plus reasonable attorney fees.
See how Memphis's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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