TCA 39-17-1362
Imitation firearm – Defined – Offense to display in threatening manner in public place
MISDEMEANOR BClass B Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
It is illegal to intentionally show an object that looks like a real gun (an imitation firearm) in a threatening way in a public place when it would make a reasonable person fear being hurt. This is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a $500 fine. However, you have a defense if you displayed it as part of lawful self-defense, and this law does not prevent prosecution under other criminal laws.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass B Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail6 months
Maximum Fine$500
Penalty SummaryClass B misdemeanor; 6 months; fine up to $500
(a) As used in this section, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) “Imitation firearm” means an object or device substantially similar in coloration and overall appearance to a firearm, as defined in § 39-11-106(a), as to lead a reasonable person to perceive that the object or device is a firearm; and (2) “Public place” means a place to which the public or a group of persons has access and includes, but is not limited to, highways, transportation facilities, schools, places of amusement, parks, places of business, playgrounds, and hallways, lobbies and other portions of apartment houses and hotels not constituting rooms or apartments designed for actual residence. An act is deemed to occur in a public place if it produces its proscribed consequences in a public place, even if the person engaging in the prohibited conduct is not in a public place. (b) A person commits an offense who intentionally displays in a threatening manner an imitation firearm in a public place in a way that would cause a reasonable person to fear bodily injury to themselves or another. (c) It is a defense to a violation of subsection (b) if the imitation firearm is displayed in connection with, or as a part of, any justifiable defense as set forth in chapter 11, part 6 of this title. (d) A violation of this section is a Class B misdemeanor. (e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit prosecution under any other law.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR B
TCA Section39-17-1362
Max Jail6 months
Max Fine$500