Nashville Metro Code 13.08.080 prohibits obstructing sidewalks and public rights-of-way, used to address sitting and lying on Lower Broadway and downtown sidewalks; enforcement requires written warning before citation.
Nashville does not have a stand-alone civil sit-lie ordinance like Seattle or Honolulu; Metro instead applies general right-of-way obstruction rules under Title 13 and disorderly-conduct provisions. Downtown business improvement district patrols document obstruction complaints, and MNPD issues warnings before any citation under departmental policy. The 2022 Tennessee equal-access-to-public-property law (TCA 39-14-414) elevated unauthorized camping on public property to a Class E felony statewide, which now overlays Metro practice. Nashville's response has emphasized outreach via the Office of Homeless Services rather than aggressive citation, with focused enforcement around the SoBro entertainment corridor.
Metro civil obstruction citations carry fines up to fifty dollars per offense; the overlaying state TCA 39-14-414 unauthorized-camping charge is a Class E felony with up to six years and $3,000 fine.
Nashville, TN
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Nashville, TN
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See how Nashville's sit-lie rules rules stack up against other locations.
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