Peeping Tom laws—also known as voyeurism laws or invasion of privacy laws—generally make it illegal and a criminal offense to peek into windows or doors on private property to view a person who is fully or partially naked for the purpose of sexual desire or gratification.

Peeping Tom laws vary from state to state and some states require that the victim not realize he or she was being viewed and that the victim had a reasonable expectation of privacy (was in a place where it was reasonable to expect privacy). And some states specifically address the use of unmanned aircraft (drones), cameras, video cameras, and binoculars in connection with such peeping. Some state statutes specifically prohibit peeking into bathrooms, dressing rooms, showers, and baths. And some states characterize this criminal offense as trespassing with the intent to peer or peep.

Peeping Tom laws are located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Tennessee, Peeping Tom laws are addressed under the state's invasion of privacy statutes. Specifically, Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-13-605 makes it unlawful for a person to knowingly spy on an individual who is in a place where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy, without the consent of that individual, for the purpose of sexual gratification. This includes observing, photographing, or filming another person, when that person is in a location where they would expect privacy, such as a bathroom or dressing room. The use of devices like cameras and drones to commit such acts can lead to more severe charges. Additionally, Tennessee law considers it a criminal offense to trespass on property with the intent to engage in such voyeuristic activities. Violation of these laws can result in criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances and the presence of aggravating factors.