Is Public Nudity Legal in Tennessee?
ToleratedRestricted: private venues and exceptions only· Checked by Reto Pascal Wyss
No, Tennessee punishes intentionally exposing the genitals or buttocks in a public place when the person reasonably expects to be seen and the act "will offend an ordinary viewer" or is for sexual gratification (Tenn. Code § 39-13-511). Sexual intent is therefore not required if an ordinary viewer would be offended.[1]
Main provision: Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-511 (indecent exposure)
Designated nude beaches or tolerance?
Sources we found document no officially designated clothing-optional beach in Tennessee.
Private naturist clubs and resorts
AANR Midwest's club map places Rock Haven Lodge in Tennessee.[3]
Penalties
Class B misdemeanor; Class A misdemeanor if the defendant is 18+ and the victim under 13; Class E felony in aggravated child cases. Indecent exposure counts as a sexual offence for the sex-offender registry upon a third or later conviction.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
Is public nudity legal in Tennessee?
No, Tennessee punishes intentionally exposing the genitals or buttocks in a public place when the person reasonably expects to be seen and the act "will offend an ordinary viewer" or is for sexual gratification (Tenn. Code § 39-13-511). Sexual intent is therefore not required if an ordinary viewer would be offended.
Are there official nude beaches in Tennessee?
Sources we found document no officially designated clothing-optional beach in Tennessee.
Is nudity allowed at private naturist clubs in Tennessee?
AANR Midwest's club map places Rock Haven Lodge in Tennessee.
What is the penalty for public nudity in Tennessee?
Class B misdemeanor; Class A misdemeanor if the defendant is 18+ and the victim under 13; Class E felony in aggravated child cases. Indecent exposure counts as a sexual offence for the sex-offender registry upon a third or later conviction.
Sources
- Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-511 (FindLaw) (statute)
- Tennessee Laws (Naturist Action Committee) (federation)
- AANR Midwest club locator (map) (federation)
This page summarises the law for travellers and is not legal advice. Laws, local bylaws and enforcement change; follow local signs and check the sources below. Last checked 31 October 2026.