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.
Knoxville prohibits public consumption of alcohol on streets, sidewalks, and most public property under City Code Chapter 4 alcoholic beverages provisions. The state Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission permits temporary special events. Knoxville has explored entertainment-district open-container zones but has not adopted broad downtown open-container areas like Memphis Beale Street or Nashville Lower Broadway. UT Vol football tailgating in commercial lots and on private property is generally permitted, but the campus, public sidewalks, and World's Fair Park enforce open-container prohibitions.
Open container in public is typically a Class C misdemeanor or municipal infraction with fines around $50-$200 plus possible court costs.
See how Knoxville's public alcohol use rules stack up against other locations.
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