Less Lethal Laws: A State-By-State Guide

Legal Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always verify current regulations with a qualified attorney or the relevant government authority before purchasing, possessing, or using any less lethal launcher, air gun, or related device. Laws vary by state and locality — local ordinances may be more restrictive than state law.
Restrictive Heavy regulation, permit requirements, or bans Moderate Some restrictions apply Permissive Minimal state-level restrictions

Permissive Alabama

Alabama imposes minimal state-level regulation on airguns, BB guns, and less lethal launchers. These devices are not classified as firearms under state law. Concealed carry of any weapon without a permit may be restricted under general weapons statutes.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns/BB guns are NOT classified as firearms under Alabama law.
  • No state permit, license, or registration required for purchase or ownership.
  • Concealed carry of dangerous weapons without a permit is restricted — Ala. Code §13A-11-73.
  • Discharging any projectile-launching device in a negligent manner is prohibited.
  • Local municipalities may impose additional ordinances.
Notable Localities: Birmingham and Huntsville may have local discharge ordinances. Always verify municipal code.

Permissive Alaska

Alaska has among the most permissive weapons laws in the nation. Airguns and BB guns are not classified as firearms and are largely unregulated at the state level. No permit or registration is required.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Alaska Stat. §11.81.900.
  • No permit, license, or registration required for ownership.
  • No age restriction at state level for possession.
  • Discharge prohibited in state parks under 11 AAC 20.030.
  • Open/constitutional carry permitted; airguns face no specific carry restrictions.
Notable Localities: Anchorage may have local ordinances on discharge in residential areas.

Permissive Arizona

Arizona broadly preempts local firearms laws and has minimal restrictions on airguns. Airguns are not classified as firearms. Arizona is a constitutional carry state with no specific state regulations targeting less lethal launchers.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under A.R.S. §13-3101.
  • No permit or registration required.
  • State preempts local firearm ordinances under A.R.S. §13-3108.
  • Reckless use causing injury prohibited under A.R.S. §13-1201.
  • Less lethal launchers (CO2/PCP) fall under dangerous weapon statutes if used offensively.
Notable Localities: Phoenix, Tucson, and Scottsdale may have local ordinances on discharge in public areas.

Permissive Arkansas

Arkansas does not regulate airguns or BB guns at the state level beyond standard dangerous-weapon prohibitions. These devices are not classified as firearms. No permit, registration, or license is required.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns/BB guns are NOT classified as firearms under Ark. Code Ann. §5-73-120.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Pointing an airgun at another person may constitute aggravated assault under §5-13-204.
  • Local ordinances may restrict discharge in populated areas.
Notable Localities: Little Rock and Fayetteville may have local ordinances. Verify municipal code.

Restrictive California

California has among the most comprehensive airgun and less lethal device regulations in the nation. BB guns and pellet guns are specifically defined and regulated under the Penal Code. Carrying an airgun in public can result in criminal charges. Several cities impose additional restrictions.
Key Regulations
  • BB devices defined under Cal. Penal Code §16250 — includes CO2/compressed air devices.
  • Illegal to draw or exhibit an airgun in a threatening manner (§417).
  • Furnishing a BB device to a minor under 18 without parental consent is a misdemeanor (§19910).
  • Airguns substantially identical to real firearms must have an orange tip under §20165.
  • Carrying on school grounds is prohibited (§626.9).
  • California defines “less lethal ammunition” separately under §16780 — primarily law enforcement use.
  • San Francisco, Los Angeles, and other cities may ban carrying airguns in public.
Notable Localities: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland have additional public carry restrictions. Sacramento prohibits discharge within city limits.

Moderate Colorado

Colorado does not classify airguns as firearms under state law. However, the state has several statutes that apply to airgun use, particularly around prohibited use and school zones. Denver imposes notably stricter local regulations.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under C.R.S. §18-12-101(2).
  • Prohibited use of weapons (§18-12-106) may apply to airguns used in a threatening manner.
  • Carrying a dangerous weapon on school grounds is prohibited (§18-12-105.5).
  • Selling or giving an airgun to a minor under 18 may trigger liability.
  • Denver local ordinance (D.R.M.C. §38-174) imposes restrictions on airguns in the city.
Notable Localities: Denver has its own airgun ordinances under D.R.M.C. Chapter 38. Aurora, Boulder, and metro cities may have discharge restrictions.

Restrictive Connecticut

Connecticut regulates airguns and BB guns under its weapons statutes. Sale to minors under 18 is prohibited. Carrying an airgun in a vehicle without a permit may violate the weapons-in-vehicle statute.
Key Regulations
  • BB guns and air pistols are regulated as “dangerous weapons” under C.G.S. §53-206.
  • Sale or delivery of a BB gun to a person under 18 is prohibited (§53-206d).
  • Carrying a dangerous weapon concealed without a permit is a class E felony (§29-38 for vehicles).
  • Pointing a BB gun at another person is prohibited (§53a-62 — threatening).
  • Permit to carry may extend to certain airguns classified as pistols.
Notable Localities: Hartford, New Haven, and Bridgeport may have stricter local ordinances.

Moderate Delaware

Delaware treats airguns as dangerous weapons under its criminal code, imposing concealed carry restrictions. Airguns that fire metallic projectiles and are designed to be concealed may be regulated similarly to handguns in certain contexts.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns may qualify as “dangerous instruments” under 11 Del. C. §222 in some contexts.
  • Carrying a concealed dangerous instrument is a criminal offense (§1442).
  • Sale or transfer of airguns to persons under 18 may be restricted.
  • Use of an airgun to threaten or injure is subject to assault statutes.
  • No state-level registration or permit required for ownership.
Notable Localities: Wilmington may have stricter local ordinances on airgun possession and discharge.

Permissive Florida

Florida treats airguns and BB guns as largely unregulated at the state level — they are not classified as firearms. Florida preempts local firearm ordinances. Sale to minors under 16 is restricted.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Fla. Stat. §790.001.
  • Sale of an airgun to a minor under 16 without parental consent is prohibited (§790.22).
  • Parents may be liable if a child misuses an airgun and causes injury (§790.22(4)).
  • Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit is prohibited (§790.01).
  • State preempts local firearms regulation under §790.33.
Notable Localities: Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive Georgia

Georgia does not classify airguns or BB guns as firearms. The state has broad preemption of local weapons ordinances. Less lethal launchers face minimal specific regulation at the state level.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under O.C.G.A. §16-11-171.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Carrying a weapon in a school zone is prohibited (§16-11-127.1).
  • State preempts local weapons ordinances under §16-11-173.
  • Aggressive or threatening use of an airgun may constitute criminal threatening (§16-11-37).
Notable Localities: Atlanta and other cities may have local discharge ordinances despite state preemption.

Restrictive Hawaii

Hawaii has among the most restrictive airgun regulations in the country. High-powered air rifles may be classified as firearms requiring registration. All firearm purchases require a permit. PCP and CO2 launchers may require registration with the county chief of police.
Key Regulations
  • H.R.S. §134-1 defines “firearm” to include high-powered air rifles in certain contexts.
  • A permit to purchase is required for regulated airguns (§134-2).
  • All regulated firearms/airguns must be registered with the county chief of police (§134-3).
  • Carrying a regulated firearm/airgun without a license is prohibited (§134-9).
  • Stun guns and electric devices separately regulated under §134-16.
Notable Localities: Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai counties each administer registration. Contact your local county police for compliance requirements.

Permissive Idaho

Idaho imposes minimal state-level regulation on airguns, BB guns, and less lethal launchers. These are not classified as firearms. Idaho is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Idaho Code §18-3302.
  • No state permit, license, or registration required.
  • Idaho Constitution Art. I §11 broadly protects arms rights.
  • Pointing a weapon at another person in a threatening manner is prohibited under §18-3304.
  • Local discharge ordinances may apply in populated areas.
Notable Localities: Boise and other cities may have discharge ordinances in residential areas.

Restrictive Illinois

Illinois imposes significant restrictions on airguns and BB guns statewide. The FOID Card requirement may extend to certain airguns. Chicago has particularly strict regulations. Carrying a BB gun in public can result in criminal charges under the UUW statute.
Key Regulations
  • 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(4) — Carrying or possessing a BB/pellet/spring gun in public is Unlawful Use of Weapons (UUW).
  • 430 ILCS 65 — FOID Card Act: airgun capable of discharging a projectile with lethal potential may require FOID.
  • Chicago Municipal Code §8-24-010 — airguns treated equivalently to firearms; public possession prohibited.
  • Sale or transfer of airguns to persons under 18 is restricted statewide.
  • Less lethal launchers in public carry still face scrutiny under UUW provisions.
Notable Localities: Chicago: §8-24-010 is extremely restrictive and treats airguns as firearms. Springfield, Rockford, and Peoria may have local ordinances.

Moderate Indiana

Indiana does not classify standard airguns as firearms, but has provisions related to dangerous devices. Indiana is a permitless carry state for legal firearms. Less lethal launchers face minimal specific regulation.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are generally NOT classified as firearms under IC 35-47-1-5.
  • No state permit required for ownership of standard airguns.
  • Carrying a “dangerous device” in a threatening manner may violate IC 35-47-4-2.
  • Carrying on school property is restricted under IC 35-47-9-2.
  • No FOID-equivalent requirement in Indiana.
Notable Localities: Indianapolis/Marion County may have additional local regulations.

Permissive Iowa

Iowa imposes minimal regulation on airguns and BB guns at the state level. These devices are not classified as firearms. Iowa is a permitless carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Iowa Code §724.1.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Pointing any dangerous weapon at another person is a misdemeanor (§708.8).
  • Carrying on school grounds is prohibited.
  • Local discharge ordinances may apply.
Notable Localities: Des Moines and Cedar Rapids may have local discharge restrictions.

Permissive Kansas

Kansas does not regulate airguns, BB guns, or less lethal launchers at the state level beyond standard dangerous weapon prohibitions. Kansas is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under K.S.A. §21-6301.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Kansas is a constitutional carry state.
  • Carrying a dangerous weapon on school grounds is prohibited (§72-6124).
  • Using any weapon in a threatening manner may constitute criminal threatening.
Notable Localities: Wichita and Kansas City (KS) may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive Kentucky

Kentucky imposes minimal regulation on airguns and BB guns. These devices are not classified as firearms under state law. Kentucky is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under KRS §237.060.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Carrying a concealed deadly weapon without meeting carry criteria is restricted under KRS §527.020.
  • Possession near schools may be restricted under §527.070.
  • Local discharge ordinances are common in populated areas.
Notable Localities: Louisville and Lexington may have local discharge restrictions.

Permissive Louisiana

Louisiana does not regulate airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. Louisiana is a permitless carry state. Less lethal launchers face no specific state regulation beyond standard dangerous weapons provisions.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under La. R.S. §14:95.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Carrying a “dangerous weapon” while intoxicated is prohibited under §14:95(B).
  • Carrying on school grounds is prohibited.
  • Reckless discharge of a weapon is a misdemeanor.
Notable Localities: New Orleans may have local ordinances. Baton Rouge also has discharge restrictions.

Permissive Maine

Maine does not classify airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. Maine is a constitutional carry state with minimal weapons restrictions.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under 17-A M.R.S.A. §2(12-A).
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Maine is constitutional carry — no permit needed for concealed or open carry of legal weapons.
  • Pointing a weapon at another person may constitute threatening (§209).
  • School property restrictions apply under §1056.
Notable Localities: Portland may have local discharge ordinances.

Moderate Maryland

Maryland has a moderate regulatory framework that can extend to some airguns. Maryland’s handgun definition under some statutes can reach powerful air pistols. A wear-and-carry permit is required to carry a handgun, which may extend to certain airguns configured as pistols.
Key Regulations
  • Md. Criminal Law Code §4-101 defines “handgun” to include certain air guns with a barrel less than 16 inches.
  • Wearing, carrying, or transporting a covered airgun without a permit is prohibited (§4-203).
  • Maryland Wear and Carry Permit (MHSW) may be required for covered airguns in public.
  • Sale or transfer of regulated handguns (including covered airguns) to minors under 21 is prohibited.
  • Less lethal launchers that meet the §4-101 definition require the same carry permits as handguns.
Notable Localities: Baltimore City has additional restrictions on carrying any weapon in public. Montgomery County and Prince George’s County may have local ordinances.

Restrictive Massachusetts

Massachusetts imposes strict regulations on BB guns and airguns, treating them similarly to firearms in many contexts. A Firearms Identification (FID) Card is required to possess a BB gun or air rifle. Carrying in public is restricted and sale to minors is prohibited.
Key Regulations
  • Under M.G.L. c.269 §12B, a BB gun or air rifle may require a Firearms Identification (FID) Card.
  • Sale or furnishing of a BB gun to a person under 18 is a misdemeanor (c.269 §12B).
  • Possessing a BB gun in a public place without an FID card may be a criminal offense.
  • Carrying a “dangerous weapon” concealed without a License to Carry (LTC) is a felony under c.269 §10.
  • FID Card ($100 fee) required for BB guns; LTC ($100) required for concealed carry.
Notable Localities: Boston has particularly strict enforcement. Springfield, Worcester, and Lowell may have additional local ordinances.

Moderate Michigan

Michigan treats BB guns and air pistols as firearms for concealed carry purposes. An airgun designed to be concealed cannot be carried without a Concealed Pistol License (CPL). Open carry of airgun long guns faces fewer restrictions.
Key Regulations
  • Under MCL §750.224a, BB guns are treated as pistols for concealed carry purposes.
  • Carrying a concealed BB gun (pistol-type) without a CPL is a misdemeanor.
  • MCL §750.222(s) defines “pistol” to include BB and pellet guns with less-than-26-inch barrels under certain conditions.
  • No permit required for ownership/possession in the home.
  • Carrying on school property is prohibited (MCL §750.237a).
Notable Localities: Detroit, Lansing, and Grand Rapids may have local ordinances on airgun use and discharge.

Moderate Minnesota

Minnesota regulates BB guns under its “pistol” definition in certain contexts. Air pistols that are concealable may be subject to the same permit-to-carry requirements as firearms.
Key Regulations
  • Minn. Stat. §624.712(2) defines “pistol” to include air guns and BB guns that can be concealed.
  • Carrying a concealed pistol (including covered airguns) without a permit is a gross misdemeanor or felony (§624.714).
  • Minnesota Permit to Carry is shall-issue; $100 fee, valid 5 years.
  • Possession of a BB gun by a person under 14 without adult supervision may be restricted.
  • Carrying on school grounds is prohibited.
Notable Localities: Minneapolis and Saint Paul may have additional local ordinances on airgun use in public.

Permissive Mississippi

Mississippi has minimal regulation of airguns and BB guns at the state level. These devices are not classified as firearms. Mississippi is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Miss. Code Ann. §97-37-1.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Mississippi is a constitutional carry state.
  • Carrying in a school zone is prohibited.
  • Threatening another person with an airgun may constitute criminal threatening.
Notable Localities: Jackson and Biloxi may have local discharge restrictions.

Moderate Missouri

Missouri does not classify standard airguns as firearms. The state is a constitutional carry state. However, cities — particularly St. Louis and Kansas City — have historically imposed additional restrictions that were partially addressed by state preemption.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are generally NOT classified as firearms under Mo. Rev. Stat. §571.010.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Missouri is a constitutional carry state.
  • Carrying any dangerous weapon on school grounds is prohibited (§571.030(1)(9)).
  • State preemption of local firearms ordinances under §21.750 limits city-level restrictions.
Notable Localities: St. Louis and Kansas City had stricter local ordinances before state preemption; verify current status of local airgun discharge restrictions.

Permissive Montana

Montana has minimal regulation of airguns and less lethal launchers. These devices are not classified as firearms. Montana is a constitutional carry state with broad protections for arms rights.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under MCA §45-8-316.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Montana is a constitutional carry state.
  • Reckless discharge of any weapon is prohibited under §45-8-342.
  • School property restrictions apply.
Notable Localities: Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive Nebraska

Nebraska does not classify standard airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. No permit or registration is required for ownership. Concealed carry of any weapon requires a permit.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under Neb. Rev. Stat. §28-1201.
  • Carrying any deadly weapon concealed without a permit is a crime (§28-1202).
  • Nebraska Concealed Handgun Permit (CHP) may extend to certain airguns meeting the “handgun” definition.
  • Sale to minors may be restricted under local ordinances.
  • School zone restrictions apply.
Notable Localities: Omaha and Lincoln may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive Nevada

Nevada does not classify airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. No permit or registration is required for ownership. Nevada allows open carry without a permit.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under NRS §202.253.
  • No state permit or registration required for ownership.
  • CCW permit required for concealed carry of firearms; powerful airguns in pistol config may be covered.
  • Carrying a deadly weapon on school grounds is prohibited (NRS §202.265).
  • Reckless discharge is prohibited (NRS §202.285).
Notable Localities: Las Vegas (Clark County) and Reno (Washoe County) may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive New Hampshire

New Hampshire has minimal regulation of airguns at the state level. These devices are not classified as firearms. New Hampshire is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under RSA §159:1.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • New Hampshire is a constitutional carry state.
  • Carrying any dangerous weapon in a threatening manner is prohibited.
  • School zone restrictions apply under RSA §159:19-c.
Notable Localities: Manchester and Concord may have local discharge ordinances.

Restrictive New Jersey

New Jersey treats airguns nearly identically to firearms. N.J.S.A. §2C:39-1 expressly includes airguns, BB guns, and CO2 guns in the definition of “firearm.” Purchasing, possessing, and carrying these devices requires full compliance with New Jersey’s strict firearms laws.
Key Regulations
  • N.J.S.A. §2C:39-1(f) defines “firearm” to expressly include air guns, BB guns, spring guns, and CO2 guns.
  • A Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (FPIC) is required to purchase a BB gun or air rifle.
  • A Permit to Purchase a Handgun is required for any airgun configured as a handgun.
  • Carrying any firearm (including airguns) in public without a permit is a third-degree crime.
  • Less lethal launchers (CO2-powered) are expressly covered by the firearm definition.
Notable Localities: Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton enforce NJ firearms laws strictly. The law applies uniformly statewide.

Permissive New Mexico

New Mexico does not specifically regulate airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. No permit or registration is required for ownership. Concealed carry of a firearm requires a permit, but standard airguns are not typically covered by firearm definitions.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under NMSA 1978 §30-7-2.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Carrying a deadly weapon in a threatening manner is prohibited under §30-7-2.
  • School zone restrictions apply.
  • Local ordinances may restrict discharge in populated areas.
Notable Localities: Albuquerque and Santa Fe may have local discharge ordinances.

Restrictive New York

New York has among the strictest airgun regulations in the nation. Airguns, BB guns, and spring guns are defined under the Penal Law. Minors under 16 may not possess air guns. New York City effectively bans civilian airgun possession without a license.
Key Regulations
  • NY Penal Law §265.00(15) defines “air gun” to include any device powered by air, CO2, spring, or rubber band that propels projectiles.
  • NY Penal Law §265.05 — A person under 16 may not possess an air gun.
  • NY Penal Law §265.35 — Unlawful use of an air gun in public is a criminal charge.
  • NYC Admin. Code §10-131 — Airguns, BB guns, and less lethal launchers are effectively banned for civilian possession in NYC without a special license.
  • Possession of any air gun on or near school grounds is a crime.
Notable Localities: New York City (all 5 boroughs) effectively bans civilian airgun possession without a firearm license. Long Island and Westchester County may have additional restrictions.

Moderate North Carolina

North Carolina regulates the carrying of air pistols (BB guns in pistol form) similarly to concealed handguns. Under G.S. §14-269, concealing an airgun configured as a pistol without a concealed carry permit may be unlawful.
Key Regulations
  • G.S. §14-269 prohibits carrying concealed “any pistol or gun” — courts have applied this to air pistols.
  • NC Concealed Carry Handgun Permit (CCHP) is shall-issue and may be required for concealed air pistols.
  • Sale of BB guns to minors under 18 without parental consent may be restricted under local ordinances.
  • Pointing any gun at another person is a misdemeanor under §14-34.
  • Carrying any weapon on school grounds is a felony under §14-269.2.
Notable Localities: Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Asheville may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive North Dakota

North Dakota imposes minimal regulation on airguns and BB guns. These devices are not classified as firearms at the state level. North Dakota is a constitutional carry state.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under N.D. Cent. Code §62.1-01-01.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • North Dakota is a constitutional carry state.
  • School zone restrictions apply under §62.1-02-05.
  • Reckless endangerment with any weapon is prohibited under §12.1-17-03.
Notable Localities: Fargo and Bismarck may have local discharge ordinances.

Moderate Ohio

Ohio does not classify standard airguns as firearms but does regulate certain devices under dangerous weapon provisions. Ohio is a constitutional carry state. No permit or registration is required.
Key Regulations
  • ORC §2923.11 defines “deadly weapon” — some airguns may qualify depending on use/capability.
  • Ohio Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is shall-issue and may extend to airgun-configured pistols.
  • Sale or transfer of airguns to minors under 18 may be restricted.
Notable Localities: Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati may have local ordinances. Check current status of local weapons regulations.

Permissive Oklahoma

Oklahoma does not regulate airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. Oklahoma is a constitutional carry state. No permit or registration is required.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under 21 O.S. §1289.2.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • Oklahoma is a constitutional carry state.
  • Pointing a weapon at another person is prohibited (§1289.16).
  • School zone restrictions apply under §1280.1.
Notable Localities: Oklahoma City and Tulsa may have local discharge ordinances.

Moderate Oregon

Oregon does not classify standard airguns as firearms, but the state has enacted significant gun control measures in recent years. Airguns face moderate regulation, particularly around carrying in public and school zones.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under ORS §166.210(6).
  • No state permit or registration required for standard airguns.
  • Carrying a concealed “dangerous weapon” in public without a permit may violate §166.240.
  • Oregon Concealed Handgun License (CHL) is shall-issue.
  • Measure 114 (2022) imposed permit-to-purchase and magazine limits — airguns generally excluded but verify current legal status given ongoing litigation.
Notable Localities: Portland has strict local ordinances on weapons in public spaces. Eugene and Salem may also have additional restrictions.

Moderate Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not classify airguns as firearms for most purposes, but they may qualify as “dangerous weapons” in certain legal contexts. Pennsylvania restricts concealed carry without a License to Carry Firearms (LCF).
Key Regulations
  • 18 Pa. C.S. §908 — “Prohibited offensive weapons” does NOT include standard airguns.
  • 18 Pa. C.S. §6106 — License to Carry Firearms required for concealed “firearm”; standard airguns generally excluded.
  • 18 Pa. C.S. §6119 defines “firearm” — standard airguns generally excluded.
  • Carrying an airgun on school property is restricted under §912.
  • Pointing any weapon at another person is prohibited.
Notable Localities: Philadelphia has imposed strict local ordinances on weapons, though state preemption limits their reach. Pittsburgh may have additional restrictions.

Restrictive Rhode Island

Rhode Island broadly defines “firearm” in ways that can encompass airguns and BB guns capable of being concealed. This makes Rhode Island one of the stricter states for less lethal launcher owners. Carrying without a permit is a serious crime.
Key Regulations
  • R.I. Gen. Laws §11-47-2 defines “firearm” broadly — courts have sometimes extended this to powerful airguns.
  • Carrying a pistol or revolver without a license is a crime (§11-47-8).
  • Rhode Island Pistol/Revolver License is may-issue; some jurisdictions are restrictive.
  • Sale or delivery of airguns to persons under 15 without parental consent is prohibited (§11-47-61).
  • Less lethal launchers in pistol configuration may require a carry permit.
Notable Localities: Providence, Cranston, and Pawtucket may have additional restrictions on airgun carry in public spaces.

Permissive South Carolina

South Carolina does not classify airguns or BB guns as firearms at the state level. South Carolina became a constitutional carry state in 2023.
Key Regulations
  • Airguns are NOT classified as firearms under S.C. Code Ann. §16-23-10.
  • No state permit or registration required.
  • South Carolina became a constitutional carry state in 2023.
  • Carrying any weapon on school grounds is a felony (§16-23-430).
  • Pointing any deadly weapon at another person is prohibited (§16-23-410).
Notable Localities: Columbia and Charleston may have local discharge ordinances.

Permissive South Dakota

South Dakota has minimal restrictions on less lethal launchers, air guns, and PCP platforms. The state treats these similarly to conventional firearms with few additional regulations.
Key Regulations
  • No state-level restrictions on air guns or less lethal launchers
  • Concealed carry laws apply to some less lethal devices
  • Pepper spray and OC devices generally legal for adults
  • No magazine capacity restrictions for less lethal platforms
  • Minors may use air guns under adult supervision
Notable Localities: Rapid City and Sioux Falls may have park restrictions on discharge of projectile devices.

Moderate Tennessee

Tennessee regulates less lethal launchers under broad weapon statutes. Air guns and BB guns have limited restrictions, though specific less lethal munitions may fall under firearm definitions depending on propellant type.
Key Regulations
  • Air guns with muzzle energy over certain thresholds may be classified as firearms
  • Pepper spray legal for adults in reasonable quantities
  • Less lethal launchers using pyrotechnic primers may require permits
  • No statewide magazine restrictions for air-powered devices
  • Minors prohibited from possessing certain air guns without supervision
Notable Localities: Memphis and Nashville have additional ordinances restricting discharge of projectile devices in city limits.

Permissive Texas

Texas is generally permissive regarding less lethal launchers and air-powered platforms. Air guns, PCP rifles, and most less lethal munitions face minimal state-level regulation. Local ordinances may apply in urban areas.
Key Regulations
  • Air guns not classified as firearms under Texas law
  • No state restrictions on PCP or HPA-powered launchers
  • Pepper spray legal statewide with no quantity limits
  • Less lethal launchers for professional use freely available
  • Minors may use air guns under adult supervision with no age minimum set by state
Notable Localities: Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin may have discharge ordinances. Austin has additional regulations on certain less lethal devices used in protest settings.

Permissive Utah

Utah is permissive toward less lethal launchers and air-powered systems. The state has minimal restrictions and preempts most local regulations, creating a uniform statewide framework.
Key Regulations
  • Air guns and PCP launchers generally unregulated at state level
  • Pepper spray and OC devices legal for adults
  • Utah preempts local firearm and weapon regulations in most cases
  • No magazine capacity limits on less lethal platforms
  • Minors may use air guns under adult supervision
Notable Localities: Salt Lake City may have park and event-specific discharge restrictions. State preemption limits most local additions.

Permissive Vermont

Vermont has very few weapon restrictions and is among the most permissive states for less lethal launchers, air guns, and PCP platforms. The state has no permit requirements for most devices.
Key Regulations
  • No state-level permit required for less lethal launchers
  • Air guns and PCP platforms essentially unregulated
  • Pepper spray and OC devices freely legal for adults
  • No magazine or capacity restrictions on less lethal systems
  • Minors may use air guns without specific age restriction at state level
Notable Localities: Burlington has some event-specific restrictions. Overall one of the least regulated states for these platforms.

Moderate Virginia

Virginia regulates less lethal launchers and certain air-powered devices under state weapons statutes. Recent legislation has added restrictions, and localities have limited home-rule authority for additional regulations.
Key Regulations
  • Air guns firing projectiles at high velocity may be classified as “pneumatic guns” subject to restrictions
  • Persons under 18 prohibited from using pneumatic guns in public without adult supervision
  • Pepper spray legal for adults; restricted quantity/concentration may apply
  • Less lethal launchers using firearm-type mechanisms may require compliance with firearms laws
  • Public discharge of air guns may violate local ordinances
Notable Localities: Alexandria, Arlington, and Richmond have additional ordinances on discharge and transport of projectile devices. Northern Virginia jurisdictions tend to be more restrictive.

Moderate Washington

Washington State has a moderate regulatory environment for less lethal launchers. The state has enacted some restrictions on certain projectile devices and OC agents, though PCP and air-powered platforms remain largely unregulated at the state level.
Key Regulations
  • Pepper spray and OC devices regulated by formulation and quantity
  • Less lethal launchers using “dangerous weapons” definitions may require concealed carry permits
  • Initiative 940 and related legislation affects use-of-force standards for less lethal devices
  • Minors under 18 may not possess certain projectile devices without adult supervision
  • Some “assault weapon” adjacent laws may capture certain less lethal rifle platforms
Notable Localities: Seattle has significant additional restrictions on less lethal launchers, particularly following 2020 ordinances restricting law enforcement use which also affect civilian devices classified similarly. Tacoma and Spokane have discharge ordinances.

Permissive West Virginia

West Virginia is highly permissive for less lethal launchers, air guns, and PCP platforms. The state preempts local firearm and weapon regulations in most instances, creating a uniform and permissive statewide framework.
Key Regulations
  • No state restrictions on air guns or PCP launchers
  • Pepper spray and OC devices legal for adults without quantity limits
  • Less lethal launchers not specifically regulated at state level
  • State preemption applies to most local weapon regulations
  • Minors may use air guns under adult supervision with no strict age minimum
Notable Localities: Charleston and Huntington have park-specific discharge rules. State preemption minimizes local variation.

Moderate Wisconsin

Wisconsin has moderate regulations affecting less lethal launchers. Pepper spray is regulated by formula and quantity, and certain projectile devices may fall under concealed carry or dangerous weapon statutes.
Key Regulations
  • Tear gas and CS devices restricted to specific formulations and quantities
  • Pepper spray limited to 2 oz or less for civilian carry
  • Less lethal launchers classified as “dangerous weapons” if capable of causing harm
  • Concealed carry laws may apply to some less lethal pistols
  • Minors under 18 restricted from possessing certain less lethal devices
Notable Localities: Milwaukee has additional ordinances. Madison restricts discharge of projectile devices in city limits.

Permissive Wyoming

Wyoming is among the most permissive states for less lethal launchers, air guns, and PCP-powered platforms. Minimal state regulation and no significant local preemption issues make Wyoming highly favorable for these devices.
Key Regulations
  • No state restrictions on air guns, BB guns, or PCP launchers
  • Pepper spray and OC devices legal without quantity restrictions
  • Less lethal launchers not specifically regulated beyond general weapons laws
  • No magazine capacity limits on less lethal platforms
  • Minors may use air guns under adult supervision
Notable Localities: Cheyenne and Casper have discharge-in-city-limits ordinances. Wyoming is otherwise highly permissive with minimal local variation.