STUN GUN LAWS

States Where Stun Devices Are Restricted:

1. Hawaii:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Electric guns are banned under Hawaii State Law, and any violations result in confiscation by the chief of police.

2. Illinois:

   • Summary: Legal with conditions. A valid FOID card is required to possess a stun gun. Sellers must check the buyer’s FOID card, request a background check, and keep a record of the sale for ten years. Stun guns are illegal in Chicago.

3. Massachusetts:

   • Summary: Illegal without a permit. A carry permit is required, and stun guns must be secured in a locked container accessible only to the permit holder.

4. Michigan:

   • Summary: Legal with conditions. The sale and possession of stun guns require a valid CPL (Concealed Pistol License).

5. New York:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Stun guns are classified as dangerous weapons and are prohibited.

6. Rhode Island:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Stun guns are considered dangerous weapons under state law.

7. Wisconsin:

   • Summary: Legal with restrictions. A CCW (Carrying Concealed Weapons) license is required for carrying stun guns. Open carry is legal, and stun guns can be kept in a dwelling or business or transported in a closed case. Sales are restricted to those with a CCW license or recognized out-of-state license.

8. North Carolina:

   • Summary: Legal with conditions. Stun guns must be carried openly; concealed carry without a permit is illegal. Stun guns are prohibited on certain properties like schools and government buildings.

Cities Where Stun Devices Are Restricted or Illegal:

1. Annapolis, MD:

   • Summary: Specific local restrictions apply; check local regulations for details.

2. Denison / Crawford County, IA:

   • Summary: Stun guns are illegal and prohibited within the county.

3. District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.):

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Stun guns are classified as "destructive devices" and are banned under District law.

4. Philadelphia, PA:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. The city ordinance prohibits the sale and possession of stun guns, and violations are subject to fines and imprisonment.

5. Chicago, IL:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Even with a FOID card, stun guns are banned within the city limits.

6. New York City, NY:

   • Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. The city prohibits stun guns, and violations are classified as a misdemeanor.

Detailed State Restrictions:

District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.):

• Summary: Stun guns are classified as "destructive devices" and are illegal to possess, sell, or use. Strict regulations apply under the Firearms Control law.

Hawaii:

• Summary: Electric guns are illegal. Violations result in confiscation and disposal by the chief of police.

Massachusetts:

• Summary: Illegal without a permit. Possession and sales of stun devices are banned unless the individual holds a valid firearms license.

Michigan:

• Summary: Legal with a CPL license. Possession and sales of stun devices require submission of a valid CPL license.

New York:

• Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Classified as dangerous weapons under state law.

Rhode Island:

• Summary: Illegal to possess, sell, or use. Stun guns are banned under state law.

Wisconsin:

• Summary: Legal with a CCW license. Carrying a stun gun requires a concealed carry permit, and stun guns can only be sold to individuals with a recognized out-of-state license or a Wisconsin CCW license.

North Carolina:

• Summary: Legal with conditions. Stun guns must be carried openly; concealed carry without a permit is illegal. Stun guns are prohibited on school property and certain government buildings.

Countries Where Stun Guns Are Restricted:

1. Australia
2. Belgium
3. Canada
4. Denmark
5. Hong Kong
6. India (Police Use Only)
7. Italy
8. Japan
9. New Zealand
10. Norway
11. Sweden
12. Switzerland
13. United Kingdom

Disclaimer

This summary provides an overview of the current laws regarding stun guns, but it is not exhaustive. Laws may change without notice, and this information should not be considered legal advice. Customers are responsible for checking with their local and state authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations regarding the purchase, possession, and use of stun guns.
Revised July 20, 2024