Tennessee Statewide Rule
Tennessee Slum Clearance and Blight Abatement Authority
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
Summary
Tennessee state law in T.C.A. Title 13 authorizes municipalities to declare and abate blighted property, but sets statewide due process and notice procedures cities must follow.
The written notice sent to the owner or the owner's agent shall describe the conditions that render the property blighted and deteriorated, and shall demand abatement of the conditions within ninety (90) days of the receipt of such notice.
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?
Can blight cleanup costs become a property lien?
Sources
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