No, squatting in Tennessee is illegal under state and local laws, as unauthorized occupation of property constitutes criminal trespass or burglary. Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-405 criminalizes unlawful occupancy, while local ordinances in Nashville and Memphis impose additional penalties for squatters exploiting loopholes in eviction moratoriums. Landlords must follow strict 2026 procedural reforms under the Tennessee Property Protection Act, requiring expedited court filings to remove squatters without delay.
Key Regulations for Squatting in Tennessee
- Criminal Trespass Charges: Under TCA § 39-14-405, squatting on residential or commercial property without consent is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and $500 fines. Repeat offenses escalate to felony charges.
- Forcible Entry Prohibitions: Tennessee law bars landlords from using self-help evictions (e.g., changing locks, cutting utilities). Violations trigger civil liability under TCA § 66-28-511, with damages capped at $500 per violation.
- 2026 Compliance Deadlines: The Tennessee Property Protection Act mandates landlords file eviction suits within 10 days of discovering squatters, with courts prioritizing these cases. Noncompliance risks administrative penalties from the Tennessee Real Estate Commission.