Tennessee § 13-21-101 - Part definitions.

Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 13-21-101 — Part definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 13-21-101. Part definitions.

As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: “Dwelling” means any building or structure, or part thereof, used and occupied for human occupation or use or intended to be so used, and includes any outhouses and appurtenances belonging thereto or usually enjoyed therewith; “Governing body” means the council, commission, or board, or other legislative body, charged with governing a municipality; “Municipality” means any city or town; “Owner” means the holder of the title in fee simple and every mortgagee of record; “Parties in interest” means all individuals, associations, corporations and others who have interests of record in a structure and any who are in possession thereof; “Place of public accommodation” means any building or structure in which goods are supplied or services performed, or in which the trade of the general public is solicited; “Public authority” means any housing authority or any officer who is in charge of any department or branch of the government of the municipality or state relating to health, fire, building regulations, or other activities concerning structures in the municipality; “Public officer” means any officer or officers of a municipality or the executive director or other chief executive officer of any commission or authority established by such municipality or jointly with any other municipality who is authorized by ordinance adopted hereunder to exercise the power prescribed by such ordinances and by this part; and “Structure” means any dwelling or place of public accommodation or vacant building or structure suitable as a dwelling or place of public accommodation. Acts 1939, ch. 152, § 2; C. Supp. 1950, § 3647.30 (Williams, § 3647.43); T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 13-1201; Acts 1985, ch. 286, §§ 1, 5; 1986, ch. 706, § 1; 1995, ch. 391, § 1. Compiler's Notes. Acts 1986, ch. 820 contained the Municipal Development Authority Act of 1986 containing an alternative method of municipal planning; however, this act was amended to eventually be applicable only to Johnson City and is listed in the Uncodified Acts Index. Cross-References. Local neighborhood model development corporations, title 13, ch. 13. Law Reviews. The Indigent Tenant in Tennessee (William E. Caldwell), 1 Mem. St. U.L. Rev. 117.

Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 13-21-101

What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 13-21-101 cover?

Section 13-21-101 ("Part definitions.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Tennessee § 13-21-101?

A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 13-21-101" (Tennessee). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Tennessee law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.

How does Tennessee § 13-21-101 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.