Airsoft is a popular sport that involves shooting plastic pellets at opponents. It has become increasingly popular over the years, with more and more people participating in games all around the United States. But before you join an airsoft game, it’s important to make sure you are aware of the laws governing airsoft legality in your state.
Airsoft Law 101
Airsoft Law 101 in the United States is an important part of the game and should not be taken lightly. While airsoft is legal for recreational use in many states, there are restrictions on what type of guns can be used and where people can play.
In order to purchase any type of airsoft gun in the United States, individuals must meet certain requirements regarding age and licensing, as well as restrictions from state and local laws which could further limit possession or use of these weapons in specific locations or circumstances.
- Age Requirements. Airsoft guns must be used by individuals 18 years of age or older, unless they are under the supervision of someone over 18 who has obtained parental consent.
- Purchase Restrictions. In most cases, an adult (18+) may only purchase airsoft guns from a licensed dealer in their state and must provide proof of identity before such a sale is made.
- Velocity Limit. Most states have limits on how fast an airsoft gun can fire its projectiles – usually between 350 and 500 feet per second (FPS).
- Safety Rules and Practices. All players should know safety rules that apply to all types of airsoft games, including rules about goggles/eye protection and proper clothing for game play as well as setting maximum limits for field size and acceptable behavior around other players during a game session.
- Carrying Regulations. The laws regarding carrying regulations vary greatly from state-to-state but generally speaking, it is illegal to carry any type of visible weapons whether unloaded or otherwise in public places without permission from local law enforcement agencies first being granted in advance via written authorization form or permit from the appropriate jurisdiction(s) involved with regulating such activities within their respective jurisdictions according to applicable laws.
In some states, it’s illegal to own any type of airsoft gun, so be sure to check your local laws before purchasing any equipment. Additionally, states have different rules about where you can use airsoft guns and what type of safety precautions must be taken when playing.
Since there are a wide range of airsoft laws across the United States, it’s important that you research the laws in your state to make sure you’re playing by the rules.
Table of Contents
Alabama
Airsoft guns must have an orange tip and cannot be used in a public place without express permission from the owner or occupier of that property. Additionally, airsoft guns cannot be used in any public park or recreational area.
Alaska
In Alaska you must be 18 years old to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun, however you can own one at 16 years old. There are also certain areas where it is illegal to discharge an airsoft gun, such as schools and public parks.
Arizona
Airsoft guns must have an orange tip and they cannot be used in a public place without express permission from the owner or occupier of that property. Additionally, it’s important to note that some cities in Arizona may have additional restrictions on where you can play airsoft, so be sure to check your local laws.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, it is illegal to sell an airsoft gun to anyone under the age of 18 without the permission of a parent or guardian. Additionally, all airsoft guns must have an orange tip and a body that is colored other than black/brown/blue/clear or camo. It is also important to note that while airsoft guns are legal in Arkansas, they cannot be used for hunting or shooting in animals.
California
According to California State law, airsoft guns must be colored in bright colors and have an orange tip at the top of the gun. Additionally, minors under the age of 18 cannot own an airsoft gun without parental permission. Furthermore, it is illegal for a person to use or exhibit an airsoft gun in public.
Colorado
In Colorado, airsoft guns must have an orange tip and they cannot be used in a public place without express permission from the owner or occupier of that property. It is also illegal to sell an airsoft gun to anyone under 18 years old without the written consent of their parent or legal guardian. Furthermore, it is illegal to use airsoft guns for hunting animals or for shooting at people or inanimate objects.
When using an airsoft gun in Colorado, safety precautions must be taken and all players involved should wear eye protection at all times. Additionally, all players should abide by the state’s velocity limit of 500 feet per second (FPS) when firing the gun. An FPS of greater than 500 can result in serious injury or death if proper safety precautions are not taken.
Connecticut
In Connecticut, airsoft guns are considered to be a form of firearm and thus are subject to the same regulations as any other gun. It is illegal to possess an airsoft gun without a valid permit, and it is also illegal to sell or transfer ownership of an airsoft gun without first obtaining a proper permit. Additionally, all airsoft guns must have an orange tip and they cannot be used in a public place without express permission from the owner or occupier of that property.
Delaware
In Delaware, it is illegal to possess, sell or control any weapon that discharges or projects a pellet, slug or bullet by compressed air. This includes airsoft guns. However, there are exceptions for certain types of weapons such as antique firearms and certain BB guns. Additionally, minors under the age of 16 are not allowed to possess any type of firearm including airsoft guns without adult supervision.
Wilmington City Council has also passed a law banning the possession of air rifles, BB guns and pellet guns by unsupervised youth under the age of 18. It is important to note that these laws may vary from city to city so it is important to check with your local municipality before purchasing an airsoft gun.
District of Columbia
According to Giffords Law Center, it is generally prohibited to possess or carry an air rifle, air gun, air pistol, BB gun, or any other instrument that shoots a pellet outside of any building. Additionally, anyone under the age of 18 is not allowed to purchase an airsoft gun in Washington D.C. All airsoft guns must also have an orange tip on them to prevent them from appearing as real firearms.
Florida
According to Chapter 790 Section 22 of the 2011 Florida Statutes, minors under 16 may not use BB guns, air or gas-operated guns, electric weapons or devices without supervision. Additionally, it is illegal to conceal carry an airsoft gun in Florida.
Georgia
Individuals must be 18 years old or older in order to purchase an airsoft gun. According to Airsoft Garrison, it is not clearly defined where airsoft guns fall because there are no specific laws that describe them. However, it is important to note that airsoft guns must have an orange tip at the end of the barrel in order for them to be legally sold in the state. Additionally, players must maintain a 20 foot shooting distance with AEGs, Pistols, Rifles or Shotguns when engaging with opposing players.
Hawaii
Individuals must be 18 years old or older. It is also illegal to visibly carry an airsoft gun on any street, alley, public road or public lands. Additionally, the gun must be placed in a locked, hard-sided case that cannot be easily pried open. Furthermore, replica guns are prohibited from being carried or displayed on any street, alley, public road or public lands.
Idaho
You are allowed to possess airsoft guns but they must be used in registered places like airsoft fields. You also need to be at least 18 years old to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun in Idaho.
Illinois
According to the law, it is illegal for anyone to sell, rent, gift, or transfer possession of an airsoft gun to a minor who is under the age of 13 years. Furthermore, Illinois has made it illegal to ship or distribute airsoft guns in some cities.
Indiana
Airsoft guns are not considered real guns in Indiana since they shoot 8mm or 6mm plastic BBs. These types of weapons will not kill anyone and therefore do not have any restrictions or are illegal in the state.
The good news is, that there are no specific Airsoft Laws in Indiana. The state does not classify airsoft guns as firearms and does not specifically place any restrictions on their use. Airsoft guns are legal in Indiana and there are no restrictions regarding their use.
Indiana also allows airguns to be used for hunting, however you must be 18 Years Old to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun.
Iowa
According to Iowa law, you must be 18 years old to purchase an airsoft gun, air rifle or pellet gun. Additionally, Iowa has a preemption law that prohibits the enactment of local laws on firearms; however, airsoft guns are not covered by this law. Concealing an airsoft gun without its orange tip is also illegal and can result in serious consequences.
Kansas
Airsoft guns are legal to own and use in most parts of Kansas, so long as they have an orange blaze top on the barrel. However, there are a few restrictions to be aware of. For example, the City of Lawrence has banned airsoft, BB and paintball guns in parks and open spaces. Additionally, Kansas Airgun Laws and Hunting Regulations state that there is no age restriction to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun.
Kentucky
In order to purchase an airsoft gun, you must be at least 18 years old. It is also illegal to sell or give away any air rifle, air pistol, BB gun, or similar gun to anyone under 18 years of age.
When playing with an airsoft gun in Kentucky, it is important to follow safety guidelines and use proper protective gear. Players should also be aware of their surroundings and make sure they are playing in a safe area that is appropriate for airsoft games.
Louisiana
There is no age restriction to purchase or own a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun.
In addition, Louisiana has declared certain types of airsoft guns as “prohibited weapons” since 1977 and it is illegal to purchase or add them to one’s collection. Furthermore, minors must be accompanied by someone 18 years or older when shooting an airsoft gun in an appropriate location such as a target range.
Finally, Louisiana lawmakers are currently working on revising the state’s student discipline laws after a Jefferson Parish student was suspended for bringing a BB gun to school.
Maine
According to the Giffords Law Center, there is no law restricting non-powder guns in Maine. However, it is illegal to sell or give an air rifle to anyone under the age of 16 years old. Additionally, the sale of air guns to convicted felons is prohibited.
In Portland, Maine, the police department has been investigating separate incidents on the same street involving airsoft or BB guns. In addition, Massachusetts and Maine have laws that state that selling an airsoft weapon to a child younger than the age of sixteen is deemed illegal.
Maryland
In Maryland, it is illegal to sell, give away, lend, rent or transfer a stun gun to any person. Additionally, airsoft guns are considered target guns with varying projectiles and accuracies and therefore must be 18 years or older to purchase.
Lastly, Montgomery County has specific regulations regarding airsoft guns such as they cannot be concealed without a CCW permit and must follow certain design specifications.
Massachusetts
According to Massachusetts General Law – Part IV, Title I, Chapter 269, Section 12B, no minor under the age of eighteen shall have an air rifle or so-called BB gun in his possession while in any place to which the public has a right of access. Adults (or people over the age of 18) are permitted to own BB guns in Massachusetts freely without any licensing or permit requirements. Firing an airsoft gun in most general purposed parks and all state parks is illegal.
Michigan
In Michigan, airsoft guns are considered firearms and require a license to purchase or possess them.
Minnesota
According to Minnesota law, it is illegal to carry an airsoft gun in a public place unless the replica is brightly colored or has an orange tip. It is also illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to carry a BB gun, rifle, or shotgun on or about their person in a public place. Additionally, it is illegal to display, exhibit, brandish or otherwise use any non-powder toy gun in a public place.
It is important to note that while airsoft guns may be legal in Minnesota, many cities have additional restrictions that must be followed. For example, Minneapolis has specific laws regarding airsoft guns which prohibit carrying them without an orange tip or bright coloring.
Mississippi
In order to purchase an airsoft gun, you must be 18 years of age or older. Additionally, some cities and counties may have their own ordinances regarding the use of airsoft guns. It is important to check with local authorities before using an airsoft gun in a particular area.
Missouri
In Missouri, there is no age restriction to purchase or own an airsoft gun. However, it is illegal for any child under the age of 14 to use an airsoft gun. Additionally, in Minneapolis it is illegal to carry an airsoft gun unless it is unloaded and encased.
Furthermore, no person under the age of sixteen (16) shall be allowed to carry or discharge a firearm or use a projectile weapon within the City of Chesterfield unless he/she has written permission from a parent or guardian.
Montana
According to Giffords Law Center, there is no law regulating non-powder (i.e., BB and air) guns in the state. However, you must be 18 years old to purchase an airsoft gun. Additionally, Montana allows air gun hunting for certain species of game animals such as crows, coyotes, and ground squirrels.
Nebraska
In order to purchase an airsoft gun in Nebraska, you must be 18 years old or older. Additionally, it is illegal to discharge a slingshot, air gun or the like loaded with stones, pellets or other missiles within city limits. It is also important to note that some cities may have additional restrictions on the use of airsoft guns.
Nevada
According to Nevada state law NRS 202.290, it is illegal to fire an airsoft gun in a public place or to endanger any person by firing an airsoft gun. Additionally, under NRS 202.265, pneumatic BB guns are considered firearms and require a valid CCW permit for use outside of the home. In restricted congested areas, residents must also be at least 1000 feet from any occupied dwelling when using airsoft guns.
Overall, while airsoft guns are legal in Nevada, it is important to follow all relevant laws and regulations when using them.
New Hampshire
You must be 18 years old to purchase an airsoft gun, however there is no age restriction to own one. Felons may not be in possession of firearms, which includes airsoft guns. Additionally, some cities or towns may have their own local laws regarding the use of airsoft guns.
New Jersey
Airsoft guns are considered illegal firearms in New Jersey and require a valid firearm identification card to legally possess them. According to the New Jersey Graves Act of 2008, airsoft guns fall under the category of prohibited weapons, meaning that anyone caught with an airsoft gun without a valid firearms ID card can face serious penalties.
In addition, all airsoft guns must have a permanent blaze orange tip (1/4 inch) in order to be legally sold or possessed in New Jersey. It is also important to note that BB and paintball guns are also considered firearms in New Jersey and all of the firearm laws apply to them as well.
New Mexico
You must be 18 years old to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun. Additionally, it is unlawful to give, sell, trade, barter, or exchange for anything of value any deadly weapon, air rifle, air gun, or BB gun without proper training and licensing according to the ATF.
New York
In New York, it is illegal for anyone under 16 to use an airsoft gun without parental supervision.
In New York City, airsoft guns are illegal and cannot be carried or used. The state also recently passed a law banning any replica gun that is black or blue in color or covered in aluminum. Additionally, all toy weapons must be white, brightly colored, or translucent. It is important to familiarize yourself with the laws before purchasing an airsoft gun in New York State.
North Carolina
Under North Carolina law, children under age 12 are only allowed to possess or use airsoft guns if they have permission from their parent/guardian and are supervised by an adult. Additionally, local ordinances may regulate the possession and use of airsoft guns in certain areas. For example, the City of King has an ordinance that prohibits any person from firing or shooting a BB gun, pellet gun or air rifle within city limits.
North Dakota
According to the North Dakota Century Code, airsoft guns are considered “dangerous weapons” and all laws that govern firearms and other dangerous weapons also apply to them. This means that anyone who wishes to purchase an airsoft gun must be at least 18 years old.
Ohio
Airsoft guns are not explicitly illegal in Ohio, as the definition of “firearm” does not include guns that utilize air to propel their ammunition. However, there are some restrictions and regulations to be aware of when carrying airsoft guns. Cities such Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland have laws restricting air guns and pellet guns. It is recommended that players use common sense when transporting their airsoft rifles.
In Ohio, you must be 18 years or older to purchase an airsoft gun. If someone else buys it for you, you must still be at least 18 years old to own it. Additionally, many fields require players to be at least 13 years old in order to play.
Oklahoma
According to 10-307 of the Oklahoma Code, it is illegal to possess a loaded air rifle or pistol. Additionally, you must be 18 years old to purchase an airgun, air rifle or pellet gun.
Oregon
There are no laws that forbid any adults or juveniles from owning an airsoft gun on the state law. However, it is important to note that certain cities may have their own laws and regulations regarding the use of airsoft guns.
For example, Lake Oswego City Code 34.02.045 prohibits shooting airsoft guns inside city limits. Additionally, some cities like Beaverton have ordinances prohibiting the unlawful use of replica firearms, which can include airsoft guns if they are used with malicious intent.
Pennsylvania
Airsoft guns are not considered firearms under Pennsylvania law, so no permit or license is required to buy, sell, own, or carry them. However, there are some restrictions in place for minors. According to Title 18 of the PA General Assembly, it is unlawful for any person under 18 years of age to carry an airsoft gun on the highways or public lands unless they are accompanied by an adult.
Rhode Island
According to the firearm rules and regulations in Rhode Island, airsoft guns are not legally considered to be firearms because of the plastic construction. However, felons are prohibited from possessing air guns in the state of Rhode Island.
South Carolina
According to the South Carolina Code of Laws Unannotated, it is unlawful for any person to carry a handgun openly or concealed without a valid concealed weapons permit. Additionally, South Carolina prohibits any person from possessing an air gun at any park or facility under the jurisdiction of the state.
South Dakota
You must be 18 years old to purchase an airsoft gun, and all laws that govern firearms also apply to airsoft guns. Additionally, airsoft guns must have an orange blaze top on the barrel in order for them to be considered legal.
Tennessee
There are no laws that regulate non-powder guns, so they can be used without any restrictions. However, it is important to note that you must be 18 years old to purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun in the state of Tennessee.
Texas
Airsoft guns must be marked accordingly and cannot be discharged within the limits of major cities. Each municipality may have different regulations when it comes to airsoft gun use, so it is important to check local laws before using an airsoft gun.
Additionally, pre-charged pneumatic air guns must fire a projectile of at least 30 caliber in diameter and at least 150 grains in weight with a minimum muzzle velocity of 800 feet per second.
Utah
Overall, airsoft guns are legal in Utah with no restrictions or prohibitions on their use as long as they comply with federal law by having an orange tip at the end of the barrel. However, it’s important to always exercise caution when using them and be aware of any local ordinances regarding their use.
Vermont
According to the Vermont Airgun Laws and Hunting Regulations, you must be 18 years old to purchase an airsoft gun, air rifle or pellet gun.
Additionally, no person is allowed to discharge or fire any revolver, pistol, rifle, shotgun, air rifle, BB gun or other similar firearm or weapon within the city limits of Montpelier.
Virginia
According to the Virginia Code, counties, cities and towns may prohibit the shooting of pneumatic guns by ordinance. Additionally, state law considers airsoft guns the same as firearms if they are misused.
In order to purchase an airsoft gun in Virginia, you must be at least 16 years old. It is also illegal to carry an airsoft gun in public without a permit. If you misuse an airsoft gun, you can face charges similar to those for a firearm.
Washington
According to Washington state law, all airsoft guns must have an orange tip to prevent them from being mistaken for real firearms. Additionally, it is illegal to discharge an airsoft gun in a public place or any place where any person might be endangered. It is also important to note that the buying age for airsoft guns in Washington is 18 years old.
West Virginia
In order to purchase an airsoft gun, you must be 18 years old or older. Additionally, the discharge of firearms is prohibited in certain areas such as county or municipal parks. Furthermore, any firearm parts or assembly kits that include a barrel must be purchased from a licensed gun repair shop in the state of West Virginia.
Wisconsin
According to the Gun-Free School Zone Act (Wisconsin Statute S. 948.605), it is illegal to possess an Airsoft gun on school premises or within 1000 feet of a school. Additionally, anyone under 18 years old must have parental permission to purchase an Airsoft gun.
Wyoming
According to the Wyoming airgun laws, there are no regulations for airguns and anyone of any age can purchase a BB gun, airgun, air rifle or pellet gun. There are also several places in Wyoming where people can play airsoft games such as outdoor and indoor shooting fields, arenas and ranges.
Disclaimer: Please note that all information on the airsoft laws was collected from open sources. Airsoftic.com don’t assumes no legal responsibility if you violate the laws of your state/city. Before buying an airsoft gun, check the information on the government websites or your local government agencies.
Where Can You Legally Use An Airsoft Gun?
In most cases, individuals can only participate in recreational activities involving airsoft guns on private property owned by themselves or someone else who has given permission granted specifically for that purpose within boundaries clearly marked off.
Additionally, there may be special fields designated specifically for competitive matches between teams equipped with officially approved safety gear worn at all times including eye protection rated specifically against 6mm BBs fired from airguns used during play sessions.
Here you may find information about the available airsoft fields in US.
Types of Airsoft Guns
Airsoft guns come in several different forms, including gas-powered guns, spring-powered guns, electric-powered guns, and other types such as plastic BB guns (find out more about airsoft guns types in this beginners guide) commonly found among toy stores.
- Gas powered airsoft guns are powered by CO2 cartridges that give them more power than other types but are also more expensive since users must continually replace cartridge when needed.
- Spring-powered models require manual loading before each shot using either an internal lever system or bolt action mechanism depending on its design.
- Electric powered (AEG) ones use rechargeable batteries instead of gas cartridges or springs for a consistent performance rate without needing manual loading every time it is fired.
However, all these types typically lack enough power to cause harm beyond minor bruises unless specially modified by authorized professionals under strict supervision according to approved regulations set forth by your particular state government’s laws regarding such modifications.
You also may be interested to read our latest airsoft statistics research here.
