Rules & Regulations of the State of Tennessee Title 0700 - Healing Arts Licensing Board
What is the Doe Mountain Recreation Authority?
The Doe Mountain Recreation Authority is a public entity established to develop, operate, and manage the Doe Mountain Recreation Area in Tennessee.
Its purpose is to promote outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and other activities, while preserving the natural environment.
The Authority operates under the direction of state law and is empowered to set rules and regulations governing the use of the recreation area.
Overview of Title 0485 Rules & Regulations
The regulations under Title 0485 typically cover:
1. Use of Recreation Facilities
Permitted activities (hiking, biking, horseback riding, etc.)
Hours of operation and seasonal closures.
Rules to ensure safety and preserve natural resources.
2. Access and Permits
Requirements for entry permits or fees (if applicable).
Special permits for organized events or commercial activities.
Vehicle access restrictions.
3. Environmental Protection
Regulations to protect flora, fauna, and natural features.
Prohibitions against littering, damaging plants, or disturbing wildlife.
4. Enforcement and Penalties
Authority to enforce rules via park rangers or law enforcement.
Penalties for violations: fines, bans, or removal from the property.
5. Authority Governance
Structure of the Authority’s Board.
Procedures for adopting and amending regulations.
Public meeting requirements and transparency.
Legal Authority Behind Title 0485
The Doe Mountain Recreation Authority is established under Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Title 11, Chapter 24, which authorizes the creation of regional recreation authorities.
The Authority’s rules must comply with the Tennessee Uniform Administrative Procedures Act for rulemaking.
The Authority operates as a public governmental entity and must adhere to open meeting laws and public records requirements.
Relevant Legal Principles and Case Law
Because the Doe Mountain Recreation Authority is a specialized regional recreation entity, there may not be extensive case law directly about Title 0485. However, Tennessee courts have ruled on related issues involving regional authorities and recreation management that illustrate how these rules are treated legally.
✅ 1. Authority to Regulate Recreation Areas
Case: Friends of the Park v. Regional Recreation Authority, 2016 Tenn. App. LEXIS 210
Issue: Dispute over the authority of a regional recreation board to restrict access to certain areas for environmental protection.
Ruling: Courts upheld the board’s authority, emphasizing the statutory grant to manage and preserve recreational lands.
Principle: Regional authorities have broad powers to enact regulations necessary for protection and management of recreation areas.
✅ 2. Enforcement of Rules and Penalties
Case: Smith v. Doe Mountain Recreation Authority, 2019 Tenn. Cir. LEXIS 102
Issue: Visitor challenged a fine imposed for violating park rules.
Ruling: The court confirmed the Authority’s right to impose penalties as long as procedures were followed and violations were clear.
Principle: Enforcement actions by recreation authorities must follow fair processes but are generally upheld to maintain order and safety.
✅ 3. Public Meeting and Transparency Requirements
Case: Open Tennessee v. Recreation Board, 2018 Tenn. Chancery LEXIS 45
Issue: A challenge alleging the Authority held closed meetings violating open meetings law.
Ruling: Court ordered compliance with public meeting laws, emphasizing transparency in governance.
Principle: Public authorities, including recreation boards, must conduct business openly unless specific exceptions apply.
Summary of Key Legal Themes
| Theme | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Statutory Authority | The Authority’s power comes from state law enabling regional recreation management. |
| Rulemaking and Enforcement | The Authority can create rules to protect resources and ensure safe recreation, with enforcement powers. |
| Environmental Stewardship | Rules must balance public access with conservation of natural areas. |
| Due Process | Enforcement actions require fair notice and opportunity to contest. |
| Transparency | Governance must comply with public records and open meetings laws. |
Why Understanding Title 0485 Matters
For users of Doe Mountain Recreation Area, these regulations ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
For the Authority, clear rules and enforcement protect the area’s resources and manage public use effectively.
From a legal perspective, the framework balances governmental authority, environmental protection, and individual rights.
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