Local laws and regulations in Tennessee: Statewide sales tax applies. No state income tax. Open carry firearms legal. Seatbelt laws enforced. Strict DUI penalties. Contract employment at-will. Zoning laws vary by city. Tenant rights protected. Hunting licenses required. Vehicle registration mandatory.
Statewide sales tax applies.
In Tennessee, the statewide sales tax rate is 7%, and additional local sales and use taxes can range from 0% to 3%, making the combined sales tax rates vary from 7% to 10% depending on the location of the sale. Local jurisdictions in Tennessee can levy their own sales and use taxes, which must be a multiple of 0.25 and not exceed 2.75%. For more detailed information, the Tennessee Sales Tax Guide offers a comprehensive overview of the applicable tax rates and regulations across the state.
No state income tax.
Tennessee does not impose a state-level income tax on personal income, including wages, pensions, and retirement savings. However, until 2021, it had a "hall tax" on interest and dividends, which has since been fully repealed. For further information on the state's tax structure, you can visit the H&R Block Tax Center.
Open carry firearms legal.
In Tennessee, effective July 1, 2021, most adults 21 years or older, including military members 18 or older, have the right to carry a handgun openly or concealed without a permit. However, there are restrictions on carrying in prohibited areas such as schools, certain government buildings, and places where alcohol is being consumed. For more detailed information about these laws, you can refer to the Open Carry Laws section on the McEvoy Criminal Law website.
Seatbelt laws enforced.
In Tennessee, all drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seat belts, and children under 18 must be secured by a seat belt or child restraint system regardless of their seating position. The state is a primary enforcement state, which means that officers can stop and ticket vehicles solely for seat belt violations. Non-compliance with these rules can result in fines and other penalties. For more detailed information, the Tennessee Seat Belt Laws website provides comprehensive guidelines and regulations regarding seat belt requirements and enforcement. Ensuring safety belts are fastened is crucial for legal adherence and road safety.
Strict DUI penalties.
In Tennessee, first-time DUI convictions can result in fines of $350 to $1,500, jail time from 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days, mandatory alcohol and drug treatment, ignition interlock device installation, and a minimum one-year license suspension. Penalties escalate with subsequent offenses and are further intensified by aggravating factors such as high BAC levels, reckless driving, or causing injury or death. For more detailed information, you can refer to this Comprehensive Guide to DUI Penalties in Tennessee for further insights.
Contract employment at-will.
In Tennessee, the employer/employee relationship is governed by the at-will employment doctrine, allowing either party to terminate the relationship at any time, with or without cause, and with or without notice, except for specific exceptions such as refusing to participate in illegal activities, military service, and other protected actions. For a more comprehensive understanding of these regulations, you can explore the Baker Donelson Easy Guide to Tennessee, which provides valuable insights into the nuances of at-will employment and its exceptions.
Zoning laws vary by city.
In Tennessee, Zoning Laws vary significantly by city, with each municipality having its own set of regulations and zoning classifications that govern land use, building standards, and property rights, as seen in Nashville's detailed zoning code and the different approaches in other cities like Knoxville and Savannah.
Tenant rights protected.
In Tennessee, tenant rights are protected under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which ensures tenants have the right to a habitable rental property, timely repairs, and protection from discrimination and retaliation, as outlined by the Federal Fair Housing Act and state laws.
Hunting licenses required.
In Tennessee, all residents and non-residents age 13 or older are required to obtain the appropriate hunting license, which includes additional requirements such as hunter education certificates for certain age groups, and specific licenses for seniors, disabled individuals, and military personnel. Licenses can be conveniently purchased through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency website, mobile app, or authorized agents.
Vehicle registration mandatory.
In Tennessee, any vehicle operating on the streets or highways must be registered. The registration document serves to identify the vehicle, its use, owner or operator, expiration date, and fees, which constitute a privilege tax on motor vehicles. For more detailed information regarding this process, you can visit the Registration Overview on their website. It is essential for vehicle owners to comply with these regulations to ensure legal operation within the state.