Camping World Faces Lawsuit in Dolly Parton’s Tennessee Hometown Over Display of American Flag
By Website Content Manager
The city of Sevierville, Tennessee — the hometown of country icon Dolly Parton — is currently taking legal action against Camping World due to the massive American flag displayed outside one of its stores.
Camping World is widely recognized for showcasing giant American flags, often as large as a basketball court, at many of its retail locations.
According to FOX Business, city officials argue in the lawsuit that the flag is being flown on a pole that exceeds the height permitted by local zoning regulations.
Despite the city’s claims, Camping World CEO Marcus Lemonis remains firm, stating that the company has no plans to take the flag down.
The Flag will not come down @CampingWorld pic.twitter.com/yciyqaOxE0
— Marcus Lemonis (@marcuslemonis) March 31, 2025
Camping World CEO Marcus Lemonis spoke to FOX, expressing his frustration with the city’s stance: “In my view, the flag isn’t the issue. It’s been cleared by the FAA. To me, this feels more like the city trying to exert control over the area.”
Sevierville officials didn’t let that comment go unanswered. In a public response, they firmly stated, “To be absolutely clear, Sevierville has never been — and will never be — opposed to patriotism.”
The city also emphasized that their concerns go beyond symbolism. “Structures that are overly tall can distract drivers, create safety risks, and obstruct the natural views that make Sevierville special for both locals and tourists,” the statement continued.
This isn’t Camping World’s first brush with controversy over its signature flag displays. The company has been involved in at least four other legal disputes nationwide concerning similar issues.
What stands out to Lemonis is that these challenges are now emerging in the South — specifically North Carolina and Tennessee — which he finds particularly disappointing.
“These flags have been flying for nearly two decades,” Lemonis said. “So it’s surprising that I’m facing pushback in states like North Carolina and Tennessee.”