A Comprehensive Guide to Stun Gun Laws by State.

Be Sure To Know Stun Gun Laws by State Before You Buy or Carry

Stun guns are powerful tools for personal protection, offering non-lethal means to defend yourself in potentially dangerous situations. However, before purchasing or carrying a stun gun, it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape surrounding these devices, as laws vary significantly across the United States. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide an overview of stun gun laws in each state, highlighting where they are legal, where they are restricted, and the conditions under which they may be carried. Please note that this list is non-exhaustive, and it’s essential to verify local laws and regulations before purchasing or carrying a stun gun.

Understanding Stun Gun Laws

Stun guns are considered “dangerous weapons” in many jurisdictions, and as such, their possession and use are subject to various legal restrictions. Generally, stun guns are legal to own in most U.S. states, but the specifics can vary widely. Some states impose age restrictions, permit requirements, or other regulations, while a few states outright ban the possession of stun guns.

States Where Stun Guns Are Legal to Buy and Carry Without a Permit

In the following states, individuals can legally purchase and carry a stun gun without needing a permit. These states generally allow adults (18+) to carry stun guns for self-defense purposes, provided they do not have any felony convictions.

Alabama: Stun guns are legal without any specific restrictions in Alabama. Residents can buy, carry, and use them for self-defense without a permit.
Alaska: Alaska also allows the possession and use of stun guns without requiring a permit. The state’s broad allowance for self-defense weapons reflects its general stance on personal protection.
Arizona: In Arizona, stun guns are legal to carry without a permit. Arizona has some of the most permissive weapons laws in the country, making it easy for residents to carry self-defense tools.
Arkansas: Arkansas permits the ownership and carrying of stun guns without any special permits, emphasizing the right to personal protection.
California: While stun guns are generally legal in California, there are specific restrictions. They cannot be carried in certain public places, such as schools or government buildings, and they must not be used against peace officers.
Colorado: Colorado residents can purchase and carry stun guns without the need for a permit. The state has no specific regulations restricting stun gun use beyond the general laws applicable to all weapons.
Delaware: Delaware allows the legal purchase and carrying of stun guns without a permit. However, the state advises responsible use and adherence to general weapon safety protocols.
Florida: In Florida, stun guns are legal to own and carry without a permit, but they cannot be openly displayed in a threatening manner unless being used for self-defense.
Georgia: Stun guns are legal in Georgia, and residents do not need a permit to carry them. The state encourages responsible ownership, particularly in urban areas.
Idaho: Idaho permits the purchase and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state’s lenient weapons laws extend to most self-defense tools.
Indiana: Stun guns are legal to carry in Indiana without a permit. The state’s laws reflect a strong emphasis on the right to self-defense.
Iowa: Iowa residents can own and carry stun guns without needing a permit. The state has no special restrictions on these devices.
Kansas: Stun guns are legal to purchase and carry in Kansas without a permit. The state’s laws on self-defense are straightforward and permissive.
Kentucky: Kentucky allows residents to own and carry stun guns without a permit. The state’s self-defense laws are generally permissive, allowing citizens to carry various weapons.
Louisiana: Stun guns are legal in Louisiana without the need for a permit. The state’s laws support the right to carry self-defense tools.
Maine: Maine residents can purchase and carry stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are permissive regarding personal protection devices.
Maryland: In Maryland, stun guns are legal, but buyers must complete a background check. No permit is required, but certain local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions.
Minnesota: Stun guns are legal in Minnesota, but buyers must pass a background check and be at least 18 years old. No permit is required for carrying a stun gun.
Mississippi: Mississippi allows the purchase and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state imposes no specific restrictions on these devices.
Missouri: Stun guns are legal to own and carry in Missouri without a permit. The state’s laws are supportive of self-defense rights.
Montana: Montana permits the ownership and carrying of stun guns without any permit requirements. The state’s laws are generally permissive regarding self-defense tools.
Nebraska: In Nebraska, stun guns are legal to carry without a permit, but users must be at least 18 years old and have no felony convictions.
Nevada: Stun guns are legal in Nevada without the need for a permit. The state’s laws are straightforward, allowing residents to carry self-defense devices.
New Hampshire: Stun guns are legal in New Hampshire without a permit. The state allows residents to carry these devices for personal protection.
New Jersey: Stun guns are legal to buy, carry, and use in New Jersey as long as the user is over the age of 18. No permit is required.
New Mexico: Stun guns are legal in New Mexico without any specific restrictions or permit requirements. The state’s laws are permissive regarding self-defense tools.
North Carolina: North Carolina residents can legally purchase and carry stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws do not impose significant restrictions on these devices.
North Dakota: Stun guns are legal to own and carry in North Dakota without a permit. The state’s laws are permissive regarding self-defense weapons.
Ohio: Ohio allows the purchase and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are supportive of the right to personal protection.
Oklahoma: Stun guns are legal to carry in Oklahoma without a permit. The state’s laws are lenient regarding self-defense tools.
Oregon: Oregon permits the ownership and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are generally permissive regarding self-defense devices.
Pennsylvania: Stun guns are legal in Pennsylvania without the need for a permit. The state allows residents to carry these devices for personal protection.
South Carolina: South Carolina residents can legally own and carry stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are supportive of self-defense rights.
South Dakota: Stun guns are legal to purchase and carry in South Dakota without a permit. The state imposes no specific restrictions on these devices.
Tennessee: Tennessee allows the purchase and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are permissive regarding self-defense tools.
Texas: Stun guns are legal in Texas without the need for a permit. The state’s laws are supportive of the right to carry self-defense devices.
Utah: Utah permits the ownership and carrying of stun guns without any permit requirements. The state’s laws are generally permissive regarding personal protection tools.
Vermont: Stun guns are legal to carry in Vermont without a permit. The state’s laws are supportive of self-defense rights.
Virginia: Stun guns are legal in Virginia without the need for a permit. The state’s laws are permissive regarding personal protection devices.
Washington: Stun guns are legal to purchase and carry in Washington state, except in the city of Ruston. The state’s laws generally support the right to carry self-defense tools.
West Virginia: Stun guns are legal to own and carry in West Virginia without a permit. The state’s laws are permissive regarding self-defense devices.
Wyoming: Wyoming permits the ownership and carrying of stun guns without a permit. The state’s laws are generally supportive of self-defense rights.

States Where Stun Guns Are Legal to Buy and Carry With a Permit

In the following states, stun guns are legal, but carrying them requires a permit. These states often treat stun guns similarly to firearms, requiring background checks and permits for legal possession.

Illinois: Stun guns are legal in Illinois, but a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card is required to carry them. Additionally, a concealed carry license may be needed in some situations.
Michigan: In Michigan, carrying a stun gun requires a concealed carry permit. The state’s regulations are strict, reflecting the seriousness with which they treat weapons.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin allows the carrying of stun guns, but a permit is required. The state treats stun guns similarly to firearms, with specific regulations in place.

States Where Stun Guns Are Illegal to Buy or Carry

The following states have laws prohibiting the purchase and carrying of stun guns. In these states, it is illegal to possess a stun gun for any reason.

Hawaii: Hawaii has a complete ban on stun guns. Residents cannot legally purchase, own, or carry stun guns within the state.
Rhode Island: Stun guns are illegal in Rhode Island. The state has stringent laws prohibiting the possession and use of these devices.

States with Specific Local Ordinances or Additional Restrictions

While most states have uniformregulations, certain states and cities have additional restrictions or local ordinances that regulate stun gun possession. Even in states where stun guns are generally legal, it’s crucial to check local laws, as they may impose specific requirements.

New York: Stun guns are legal, but users must be 18 years or older and must not have any felony convictions. Additionally, local ordinances in some cities may impose further restrictions.
Massachusetts: In Massachusetts, stun guns are legal to carry, but a valid permit is required. The state’s strict regulations require individuals to undergo a background check before obtaining a permit.
Connecticut: While stun guns are generally legal in Connecticut, certain local jurisdictions may require permits or impose additional restrictions on carrying these devices.
Chicago, Illinois: In Chicago, additional local ordinances may apply. While the state of Illinois requires a FOID card for stun guns, Chicago’s regulations are often more stringent, reflecting the city’s specific concerns about weapon ownership.
Cook County, Illinois: Similar to Chicago, Cook County may have additional restrictions beyond the state’s FOID card requirement. Residents should check local laws to ensure compliance.

Travel Considerations

When traveling with a stun gun, it’s important to be aware of the laws not only in your home state but also in any states you may be visiting. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules regarding stun guns, which are generally not allowed in carry-on luggage but may be transported in checked baggage. Always check the regulations of your destination state to ensure you are compliant with their laws.

Conclusion: Check Local Stun Gun Laws By State Before You Buy or Carry a Stun Gun

The legality of stun guns varies widely across the United States, with each state—and sometimes individual cities—imposing different rules and regulations. While this guide provides an overview of state laws, it is by no means exhaustive. Before purchasing or carrying a stun gun, it is essential to check the most current laws in your area to ensure compliance.

Stun guns can be effective tools for personal protection, but they also come with legal responsibilities. Understanding the laws in your state, and any local ordinances that may apply, is crucial to using these devices legally and safely.

Always prioritize safety and legality when choosing to carry a stun gun. Stay informed about the laws in your area, and if in doubt, consult local law enforcement or legal experts to ensure you are fully compliant with all applicable regulations.

For more detailed and updated information, you can refer to resources like Lawrina¹. These sources provide valuable insights into the legal landscape surrounding stun guns, helping you make informed decisions about personal protection.

Where to Buy Stun Guns Online?

If you’re in the market for a reliable and effective stun gun for personal protection, check out the wide selection available at Wolf Personal Safety. We offer a variety of stun guns designed for different needs, whether you’re looking for a compact model for everyday carry or a high-voltage option for maximum defense. Each product is carefully selected to ensure quality and reliability, giving you the peace of mind that you’re prepared to protect yourself in any situation.

Lawrina. “Stun Gun Laws by State: What You Need to Know.” Lawrina. Accessed September 1, 2024. https://lawrina.org/guides/personal/criminal-law/stun-guns-laws-by-state/. ↩︎

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