§ 68-104-115 — Seizure and destruction of fireworks

(a) The state fire marshal shall seize as contraband any fireworks, other than Class C common fireworks defined in § 68-104-108 , or special fireworks for public displays as provided in § 68-104-211 , that are sold, displayed, used or possessed in violation of this chapter. The fire marshal is authorized to destroy fireworks so seized. (b) Before any seized fireworks may be destroyed: (1) If the owner of the seized fireworks is known, the state fire marshal shall give notice by registered mail or personal service to the owner of the state fire marshal's intention to destroy the seized materials. The notice shall inform the owner of the owner's right to a hearing. The state fire marshal shall conduct an appropriate contested case hearing concerning the destruction of fireworks in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. (2) If the identity of the owner of any seized fireworks is not known to the state fire marshal, the fire marshal shall cause to be published, in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the seizure was made, notice of the seizure, and of the state fire marshal's intention to destroy the fireworks. The notice shall be published once each week for three (3) consecutive weeks. If no person claims ownership of the fireworks within ten (10) days of the date of the last publication, the state fire marshal may proceed to destroy the fireworks. If the owner does claim the fireworks within the time above specified, a hearing as set out in subdivision (b)(1) shall be held.

Legislative History

Acts 1959, ch. 159, § 11; T.C.A., § 53-3015; Acts 1983, ch. 188, § 13; T.C.A., § 68-22-115.