Sumner County, TN Property Maintenance: Vacant Lot Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Owner Duty
- Keep lot clear
- Triggers
- Overgrowth, debris, dumping
- Notice Period
- 10 days
- Cost
- Liened to property
Summary
Owners of vacant lots in unincorporated Sumner County must keep them free of overgrowth, accumulated debris, and dumped trash. Under Tennessee law the county can order cleanup after notice and lien the cost when owners don't comply.
the growth of trees, vines, grass, underbrush or the accumulation of debris, trash, litter, garbage, or any combination of the preceding elements, or a vacant dilapidated building or structure, so as to endanger the health, safety or welfare of other citizens, or to encourage the infestation of rats and other harmful animals
Full Breakdown
An empty lot does not excuse its owner from maintenance. Tennessee authorizes counties to act when an owner allows the growth of trees, vines, grass, and underbrush, or the accumulation of debris, trash, litter, and garbage, so as to endanger health or safety or encourage rats and other harmful animals. The designated county official gives written notice to remedy; if the owner fails to act within ten days, the county has the condition removed and assesses the cost as a lien on the property. Vacant land near Old Hickory Lake subdivisions is a frequent target for illegal dumping, which owners must clean up.
Violations & Fines
Written notice to remedy; if uncorrected within ten days, the county abates the overgrowth or debris and liens the cost to the owner. Illegal dumping on the lot is separately charged as criminal littering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who maintains a vacant lot?
What if people dump trash on my lot?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sumner County
Compare Sumner County to another location·View the Tennessee property maintenance overview
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