Tennessee § 33-10-203 - Arrests for public intoxication.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-203 — Arrests for public intoxication., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 33-10-203. Arrests for public intoxication.
All arrests and court proceedings for public intoxication or drunkenness in this state shall be under § 39-17-310, to the exclusion of any common law or statutory offense now being enforced. No county, municipality or other political subdivision of this state shall adopt any local law, ordinance, resolution or regulation having the force of law rendering public intoxication or drunkenness in and of itself or being a common drunkard or being found in enumerated places in an intoxicated condition, an offense, a violation of the subject of criminal or civil penalties or sanctions of any kind. Nothing contained in this section shall affect any laws, ordinances, resolutions or regulations against drunken driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or other similar offenses that involve the operation of motor vehicles, machinery or other hazardous equipment. Any fines collected under § 39-17-310 shall be retained by the unit of local government over which the court has jurisdiction. Acts 1973, ch. 295, § 23; T.C.A., § 33-818; Acts 1993, ch. 234, § 5; T.C.A., § 33-8-203 ; Acts 1996, ch. 675, § 70; 2009, ch. 186, § 23; T.C.A., § 68-24-203 .
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 33-10-203
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-203 cover?
Section 33-10-203 ("Arrests for public intoxication.") 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 § 33-10-203?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 33-10-203" (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 § 33-10-203 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.