Tennessee Truck Mud Flap Law

What Tennessee makes you run

If your truck or combination has a carrying capacity over 3,000 pounds, Tennessee wants rear fenders, mudflaps or mudguards big enough to substantially stop rocks, dirt and water thrown to the rear (T.C.A. 55-9-212). Farm, farm-to-market and log haulers are exempt. No clearance inch or width number lives in the statute. A violation is a Class C misdemeanor, capped at a $50 fine plus costs. Roadside, an inadequate or missing flap is a citable equipment defect, not an out-of-service item.

Coverage and clearance

• Required: Yes
• Coverage: No explicit width number; fenders, flaps or guards must be of a size that substantially blocks rearward spray.
• Ground clearance: No set clearance. The statute is functional: flaps or guards must be of a size that substantially prevents rocks, dirt and water from projecting to the rear. No inch figure given.
• Fine: Class C misdemeanor, maximum $50 fine plus court costs (up to 30 days).

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