Tennessee § 68-212-216 - Right of entry by commissioner — Penalties.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-212-216 — Right of entry by commissioner — Penalties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 68-212-216. Right of entry by commissioner — Penalties.
The commissioner or the commissioner's designee has the right to enter any place where hazardous substances or substances which may be hazardous are, or may have been generated, stored, transported, treated, disposed of, or otherwise handled. The commissioner has the right to enter any other property which must be entered in order to reach the hazardous substance site. Any entry by the commissioner for activities authorized in this section shall be construed as an exercise of police power and shall not be construed as an act of condemnation of property or of trespass. Any person who refuses entry to the commissioner for activities authorized in this section shall be subject to a fine of up to one thousand dollars ($1,000). In addition, such person shall be subject to a civil penalty of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000), as described in § 68-212-213. Each refusal of entry or act preventing sample collection shall constitute a separate offense. Acts 1983, ch. 423, § 16; 1986, ch. 644, § 19; T.C.A., § 68-46-216 . Compiler's Notes. Former title 68, ch. 46, parts 1-3 were transferred to title 68, ch. 212, parts 1-3, respectively, in 1992. See the parallel reference table in § 68-212-101 for the former and new section locations.
Source: official Tennessee text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 68-212-216
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-212-216 cover?
Section 68-212-216 ("Right of entry by commissioner — Penalties.") 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 § 68-212-216?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-212-216" (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 § 68-212-216 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.