Tenn. Code Ann. § 7-31-101: Duty to maintain roads

(a) It is the duty of all incorporated municipalities, when a public highway passes through the corporation, or to any public place within the incorporated municipality, to keep the road in good repair. Nothing in this subsection (a) shall be construed to apply to any railroads or their rights-of-way.

(b) It is the duty of the grand jury to make presentments as for misdemeanor against the mayor and governing body of any incorporated municipality that violate this section.