Tennessee § 39-14-304 - Reckless burning.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-304 — Reckless burning., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 39-14-304. Reckless burning.
A person commits reckless burning who: Recklessly starts a fire on the land, building, structure or personal property of another; Starts a fire on the person's own land, building, structure or personal property and recklessly allows the fire to escape and burn the property of another; or Knowingly starts an open air or unconfined fire in violation of a burning ban as provided in § 39-14-306(b). Reckless burning is a Class A misdemeanor. Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; 1991, ch. 46, § 1; 2008, ch. 786, § 1. Sentencing Commission Comments. This section changes prior Tennessee law by requiring the burning to be reckless, rather than negligent or careless. Compiler's Notes. The sentencing commission terminated June 30, 1995. Sentencing Commission Comments have been retained, but do not reflect 1995 or subsequent legislation. Cross-References. Controlled burns, burning woods, § 68-102-146 . Penalty for Class A misdemeanor, § 40-35-111 . Power to forbid starting fires during drought, § 8-1-108 . Law Reviews. The Proposed Tennessee Criminal Code — General Interpretive Provisions and Culpability, 41 Tenn. L. Rev. 131 (1973).
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 39-14-304
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-304 cover?
Section 39-14-304 ("Reckless burning.") 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 § 39-14-304?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-304" (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 § 39-14-304 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.