Knowing Prohibited Locations

According to TCA Title 39, it is illegal to carry a handgun into the following locations.

• Section 39-17-1306: It is a felony if you carry a handgun on or about your person while you are inside any building where judicial proceedings are in progress.
• Section 39-17-1309:
  • Unless you are specifically authorized to do so, it is illegal to possess or carry any open or concealed handgun:
    • In any public or private school building or bus or…
    • On any public or private school campus, grounds, recreation area, or athletic field or…
    • On any other property that is owned, operated, or being used by school personnel for the administration of a public or private school.
  • A non-student adult may possess a handgun or other firearm if:
    • The firearm is contained within a private vehicle operated by the adult while the vehicle is on school property and…
    • The adult or any other person does not handle the firearm while the vehicle is on school property.
• Section 39-17-1311: Valid Handgun Carry Permit holders may carry on a public park, natural area, historic park, nature trail, campground, forest, greenway, waterway, or other similar public place that is owned or operated by the state, a county, or a municipality except when the area is being used by any number of students for the purpose of conducting an athletic event or other school-related activity. The permit holders must depart the area after being informed of or becoming aware of the event or activity.
• Section 39-17-1359:
  • Even if you have a Handgun Carry Permit, an individual; corporation; business entity; or local, state, or federal government or its agent who is conducting a meeting can legally:
    • Prohibit you from possessing a handgun at the meeting or…
    • Allow only concealed carry of a handgun at the meeting.
  • Signs must be displayed in prominent locations, including all entrances, to notify those attending the meeting about the prohibition or restriction. All signs must meet the requirements given in §39-17-1359.
    • If firearms are prohibited, the sign must include the phrase “NO FIREARMS ALLOWED” and show a slashed circle with an image of a firearm inside the circle.
    • If firearms are restricted, the sign must include the phrase “CONCEALED FIREARMS BY PERMIT ONLY” and show a slashed circle with an image of a firearm inside the circle.