Tennessee
| Subject/Law | Long guns | Handguns | Relevant Statutes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Permit to Purchase? | No | No | None | No |
| Firearm registration? | No | No | None | No |
| "Assault weapon" law? | No | No | None | No |
| Owner license required? | No | No | None | No |
| Carry permits issued? | No* | Yes | 39-17-1351 | Permits are "shall-issue". Concealed or open carry of a handgun is allowed with permit. *Loaded long gun carry is generally illegal. Those with a Handgun Carry Permit(HCP) holders may have loaded longs in a private vehicle so long as there is not a round in the chamber 39-17-1307(e) There are also other exceptions (like for hunting) listed in 39-17-1307 |
| State Preemption of local restrictions? | Yes | Yes | 39-17-1314 | Tennessee is an anomalous State. The Legislature made a loop hole for cities and municipalities with laws in effect prior to April 8, 1986. The local ordinances in effect before April 8, 1986 pre-empt State law see TCA 39-17-1314(a). Local governments may post signs per 39-17-1359 to prohibit carry on government property, just like private property owners. |
| NFA weapons restricted? | No | No | None | On July 1, 2003 public chapter 275 is in effect. It requires the CLEO, chief law enforcement officer, to sign NFA paperwork in 15 days if the applicant is not prohibited from possessing firearms. see TCA 39-17-1361 . |
| Peaceable Journey laws? | No | No | None | Federal rules observed. |
| Self-Defense Law | Yes | Yes | 39-11-611 | There is not duty to retreat before using deadly force, as long as you are acting lawfully and are in a place you have a right to be in. It is presumed you had a reasonable fear of imminent death or serious bodily injury if someone unlawfully and forcibly enters a residence, business, dwelling or vehicle. |
Read more about this topic: Gun Laws In The United States (by State)