Tennessee has not legalized recreational or medical marijuana, so all public cannabis use in Knoxville is illegal under state law TCA 39-17-418, with possession of any amount a criminal offense.
Tennessee remains a fully prohibitionist marijuana state as of 2026, with no medical cannabis program and no recreational legalization. Possession of half an ounce or less is a Class A misdemeanor under TCA 39-17-418, carrying up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine. Public consumption can add disorderly conduct or DUI charges. Hemp-derived products under 0.3% Delta-9 THC are legal under the 2014 TN Hemp Act and 2018 federal Farm Bill, leading to confusion with THCA flower and Delta-8 sales now facing tightening state Department of Agriculture rules.
Possession is a Class A misdemeanor, second offense possession greater than half ounce becomes felony, with public use adding charges.
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