As we discussed in a previous artlicle, Tennessee is not a "Constitutional Carry" state. Tennessee is a "permitless carry" state. This means that you can carry in most places without a permit.
There are exceptions though. One of those is parks. You cannot carry in parks, on greenways, nature trails, etc. You also cannot carry in rest areas, state or national forrests, or campgrounds.
Another area you cannot carry is any business, public or private that posts a sign allowing "Permitted Carry Only".
If you travel, you can only carry in approximately 19 other states that allow "permitless carry", IF they have a reciprocity agreement with Tennessee. To get to many of those states, you have to go through states that only allow permitted carry.
Another issue is, you have to be able to meet the same requirements as a permit holder, ie. Not be a convicted felon, no DUI's in past 5 years, mentally competent, no stalking charges or convictions, as well as the other requirements. So, why not just get a permit and be done with it?
I have also been asked "Why don't I just carry it and not worry about it unless I have to use it?"That sounds good right? Only it's not. As with any exception to Tennessee law, for you to NOT be charged with the actual crime committed, you must be "lawfully" there . If you are carrying without a permit in an area where a permit is required you are not lawfully there. This means that, theoretically, if you use your handgun to defend yourself or someone else, you can be charged with a crime, in addition to charges of carrying in an area where permits are required.
Although it sounds really cool to be able to say "I don't have to have a permit to carry in Tennessee", you are opening up a can of worms that could cost you a lot of money, time, and possibly incarceration. The best thing is to just spend the 8 hours for an enhanced class or take a 3 or 4 hour concealed carry class instructed by a certified instructor that allows you to ask questions and covers handgun safety. Either is a cheaper alternative to telling people that you don't need a permit.
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