Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Tennessee law
Cannabis laws in Knoxville follow Tennessee’s state law. City-level policy rarely changes cannabis legality; jurisdiction law determines legal risk.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical use is restricted to low-THC products for qualifying conditions. Possession of marijuana carries legal risk. Some hemp-derived products may be sold under separate rules, but that does not mean marijuana is legal, and legality can depend on product content and labeling.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: CBD/low-THC only
- Possession: Illegal
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Subject to state laws
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products.
Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
Tennessee maintains strict prohibitions on recreational cannabis, which remains illegal. A very limited low-THC/CBD program exists for patients with specific intractable conditions (such as epilepsy), but no dispensaries or broader medical framework is in place. Possession of any amount is criminalized, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors to felonies depending on quantity.
Law Enforcement
The Knoxville smokers in the account hadn’t run into legal trouble. They put that down to keeping a low profile.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Fort Sanders porches and apartment complexes drew University of Tennessee students. A real conversation went further than treating somebody like a shortcut to a bag. Downtown bars seemed to have an even bigger smoking crowd than places right by UT. Market Square had World Grotto and Preservation Pub. The Old City had Urban Bar, Barley’s, Old City Java and Patrick Sullivan’s. Mirage on Gay Street was a newer hookah bar in the account.
Marijuana Prices
- US$25–30 for a sixteenth of an ounce
- US$50–60 for an eighth
- US$100–120 for a quarter