No, Tennessee law prohibits the possession or use of flamethrowers under the Dangerous Weapons Act (T.C.A. § 39-17-1302), classifying them as “destructive devices.” Local ordinances in Nashville and Memphis mirror this restriction, with no recent 2026 amendments easing enforcement.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Tennessee
- State Prohibition: Tennessee explicitly bans flamethrowers under T.C.A. § 39-17-1302, treating them as “destructive devices” with penalties including Class E felony charges for possession.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Nashville and Memphis enforce stricter local ordinances, with police departments (e.g., MNPD, MPD) conducting periodic inspections of prohibited items.
- Exceptions: Only licensed pyrotechnicians or military personnel may possess flamethrowers, subject to Tennessee Fire Marshal approval and federal ATF compliance.
Violations trigger immediate confiscation under T.C.A. § 39-17-1316, with potential civil penalties up to $2,500. The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance’s Division of Fire Prevention monitors compliance, while the 2026 legislative session has not introduced amendments to relax restrictions.