Tenn. Code § 39-14-301

Current through Acts 2023-2024, ch. 716
Section 39-14-301 - Arson
(a) A person commits an offense who knowingly damages any structure or farm equipment by means of a fire or explosion:
(1) Without the consent of all persons who have a possessory, proprietary or security interest therein; or
(2) With intent to destroy or damage any structure to collect insurance for the damage or destruction or for any unlawful purpose.
(b)
(1) Arson is a Class C felony.
(2) Arson of a place of worship is a Class B felony.
(c) As used in this section:
(1) "Farm equipment" means any farm tractor as defined in § 55-1-104(a), farm implement designed to be operated with a farm tractor, and motorized farm machinery used in the commercial production of farm products or nursery stock; and
(2) "Place of worship" means any structure that is:
(A) Approved, or qualified to be approved, by the state board of equalization for property tax exemption pursuant to § 67-5-212, based on ownership and use of the structure by a religious institution; and
(B) Utilized on a regular basis by such religious institution as the site of congregational services, rites, or activities communally undertaken for the purpose of worship.

T.C.A. § 39-14-301

Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 810, s 2, eff. 10/1/2020.
Amended by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 810, s 1, eff. 10/1/2020.
Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; 1991, ch. 19, § 1; 1997 , ch. 284, § 1.