Federal Lawsuit Filed Over Alleged Odor Emissions from Kingsport Paper Mill

A federal lawsuit has been filed against Domtar Paper over alleged odor emissions from its Kingsport, Tennessee facility, with plaintiffs claiming the odors have caused property damage and disrupted daily life for nearby residents.

According to court records filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee, two Kingsport residents initiated a proposed class-action lawsuit on March 10, 2026. The plaintiffs allege that emissions from Domtar’s Kingsport mill and associated wastewater treatment operations have produced recurring off-site odors affecting surrounding neighborhoods.

The lawsuit claims the odors—linked to hydrogen sulfide, often described as smelling like “rotten eggs”—have interfered with residents’ ability to enjoy their homes, including limiting outdoor activities and requiring windows to remain closed.

Filed on behalf of the plaintiffs and others “similarly situated,” the complaint seeks more than $5 million in damages, as well as class-action certification, compensatory and punitive damages, legal costs, and injunctive relief. The suit asserts claims of nuisance and negligence related to the facility’s operations and alleged emission controls.

The complaint also references prior community concerns and regulatory actions tied to odor issues at the mill. The facility, located on Clinchfield Street in Kingsport, processes recycled cardboard into containerboard used for packaging products.

In response to inquiries, Domtar stated that it had not yet been formally served with the complaint and that the company does not comment on pending or potential litigation.

If certified as a class action, the case could involve additional residents who claim similar impacts from the alleged emissions.