Tenn. Code Ann. § 7-34-106: Exemption from utilities regulation

It is unnecessary for a municipality proceeding under this chapter to obtain a certificate of convenience or necessity, franchise, license, permit, or other authorization from a bureau, board, commission, or other like instrumentality of the state to acquire, construct, purchase, reconstruct, improve, extend, maintain, or operate public works, except as provided in § 68-221-1017 .