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TCA 39-17-310

Public intoxication

MISDEMEANOR CClass C Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply

What does this charge mean?

The offense is appearing in public while under the influence of drugs, controlled substance analogues, or other intoxicating substances to a degree that endangers the offender, endangers others or property, or unreasonably annoys people nearby. This is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine up to $50.

Penalty Details

ClassificationClass C Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail30 days
Maximum Fine$50
Penalty SummaryClass C misdemeanor; 30 days; fine up to $50
(a) A person commits the offense of public intoxication who appears in a public place under the influence of a controlled substance, controlled substance analogue or any other intoxicating substance to the degree that: (1) The offender may be endangered; (2) There is endangerment to other persons or property; or (3) The offender unreasonably annoys people in the vicinity. (b) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 25, 2026

Quick Facts

MISDEMEANOR C
TCA Section39-17-310
Max Jail30 days
Max Fine$50
Recent Bookings8+

Geographic Distribution

Putnam
374
Knox
98
Hamilton
73
Roane
66
Sullivan
47
Bradley
45
Davidson
43
Sevier
42
Wayne
37
Washington
35
Hamblen
35
Shelby
23

+ 40 more counties