Is Recording Conversations Legal in Tennessee? (2026)
Partially — Recording Conversations is legal with restrictions in Tennessee as of 2026.
Law changed in 2026: In February 2026, a bill was introduced to prohibit livestreaming or recording during evictions without the tenant's written consent. No other significant changes have been made to the state's recording laws in 2023-2026.
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Quick Answer
Tennessee is a two-party (all-party) consent state under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-601. It is illegal to record any conversation unless all parties consent. Exceptions exist for public officials and certain law enforcement activities.
What the Law Says
Tennessee is a one-party consent state. It is a Class D felony to record a conversation for illegal purposes.
— Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-601
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Consent Requirements | Possession of recordings without all-party consent is illegal. |
| Exceptions | Sale or distribution of illegally recorded conversations is prohibited. |
| Criminal/Civil Penalties | Class E felony for illegal interception under Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-13-605. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
In February 2026, a bill was introduced to prohibit livestreaming or recording during evictions without the tenant's written consent. No other significant changes have been made to the state's recording laws in 2023-2026.
Enforcement Reality
Tennessee is a one-party consent state, meaning you can record a conversation if you are a party to it. It is a felony to record a conversation you are not a part of.
A common mistake is recording a conversation to which you are not a party. Another is not realizing that while legal, the admissibility of a recording in court can be complex.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Tennessee. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Recording Conversations is legal with restrictions in Tennessee. This activity is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.
Tennessee vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, recording conversations is fully legal in 31 states, restricted in 19, and illegal in 0. Tennessee falls in the RESTRICTED category.
View the full 50-state map →Neighboring States
Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Recording Conversations:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is recording conversations legal in Tennessee?
What are the restrictions on recording conversations in Tennessee?
What mistakes do people make with recording conversations in Tennessee?
Does the law on recording conversations change at the Tennessee border?
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Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Tennessee Legal Guides
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Recording Conversations in Other States
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