Knoxville prohibits obstruction of public sidewalks, doorways, and ADA paths under Chapter 32 streets rules, applying to encampments and sit-lie behavior in the central business district and high-pedestrian corridors.
Knoxville City Code Chapter 32 prohibits obstruction of public sidewalks, building entrances, and ADA-required paths of travel. Officers may ask individuals to move when they block pedestrian flow, and repeated obstruction can result in citation. Unlike Los Angeles LAMC 41.18, Knoxville has not adopted a comprehensive sit-lie ordinance with anchor-zone buffers, but core obstruction rules apply citywide. The City Mayor Office on Homelessness coordinates outreach with the Knox County Coalition for the Homeless to connect individuals to shelter before enforcement.
First contact typically prompts a request to move with referral to outreach. Continued obstruction can result in misdemeanor citation under Chapter 32 and possible Chapter 21 misdemeanor charges.
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