TCA 39-14-204
Dyed baby fowl and rabbits
MISDEMEANOR CClass C Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
This law makes it illegal to sell, give away, or bring into Tennessee baby chickens, ducklings, goslings, or rabbits under two months old that have been dyed or colored, except for animals being sold by commercial breeders or for laboratory testing. Each animal sold in violation is a separate offense, and the punishment is a Class C misdemeanor (up to 30 days jail and $50 fine).
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass C Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail30 days
Maximum Fine$50
Penalty SummaryClass C misdemeanor; 30 days; fine up to $50
(a) (1) It is unlawful for any person to: (A) Sell, offer for sale, barter or give away baby chickens, ducklings or goslings of any age, or rabbits under two (2) months of age, as pets, toys, premiums or novelties, if those fowl or rabbits have been colored, dyed, stained or otherwise had their natural color changed; or (B) Bring or transport such fowl or rabbits into the state for the purposes mentioned in subdivision (a)(1)(A). (2) This section shall not be construed to prohibit the sale or display of baby chickens, ducklings, or other fowl or rabbits in proper facilities by breeders or stores engaged in the business of selling for purposes of commercial breeding and raising or laboratory testing. (3) Each baby chicken, duckling, other fowl or rabbit sold, offered for sale, bartered or given away in violation of this section constitutes a separate offense. (b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR C
TCA Section39-14-204
Max Jail30 days
Max Fine$50