Tennessee Property Blight (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: T.C.A. 13-21-101 et seq.
Notice: Required before action
Hearing: Public officer hearing
Cost lien: Per T.C.A. 6-54-119

Full Breakdown

Under T.C.A. 13-21-101 through 13-21-105, Tennessee gives cities and counties authority to designate buildings unfit for human habitation and order repair, vacation, or demolition. The statute mandates written notice, a hearing before a public officer, and the right of judicial review by the chancery court. Lien procedures for cost recovery are set by T.C.A. 6-54-119. Local rules cannot bypass these statewide procedural protections.

Violations & Penalties

Failure to comply with abatement order: demolition costs, liens, and collection through property tax process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Tennessee city demolish a blighted house without a hearing?

No. T.C.A. 13-21-103 requires written notice and a public hearing before demolition orders, with judicial review available in chancery court.

Can blight cleanup costs become a property lien?

Yes. T.C.A. 6-54-119 authorizes municipalities to record liens for abatement costs and collect them like delinquent property taxes.

Tennessee Slum Clearance and Blight Abatement Authority

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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