Gun Laws in Vermont
Explore comprehensive information on Vermont's gun laws. Learn about permit requirements, firearm registration, assault weapon laws, magazine restrictions, and more. Stay informed and ensure compliance with Vermont's firearm laws.
| Subject/Law | Long guns | Handguns | Relevant Statutes | Notes |
|---|
| State permit required to purchase? | No | No | | Must be 21 to purchase any firearm. May purchase long guns at 16 if purchasing from someone other than a federally licensed firearm dealer and the purchaser presents a certificate of completion of a hunter safety course approved by the Vermont Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife.[136] |
| Firearm registration? | No | No | | |
| Assault weapon law? | No | No | | |
| Magazine restriction? | Yes | Yes | | A gun control bill, passed on March 30, 2018, bans sale or possession of magazines of more than 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for pistols.[137] It was signed by Governor Scott on April 11. Previously owned high capacity magazines are grandfathered. |
| Owner license required? | No | No | | |
| Permit required for concealed carry? | N/A | No | Vermont Firearm Laws | May carry open or concealed without permit as long as one is a citizen of the U.S. or a lawfully admitted alien, and not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law. |
| Permit required for open carry? | No | No | | |
| State preemption of local restrictions? | Yes | Yes | 24 V.S.A. § 2295 | |
| NFA weapons restricted? | No | No | | Vermont legalized suppressors on June 17, 2015.[138] |
| Background checks required for private sales? | Yes | Yes | | [139] |
| Red flag law? | Yes | Yes | | [139] |
Gun Laws by State: Vermont
In the state of Vermont, gun laws are relatively straightforward. Let's break down these laws to understand what is required and what is not when it comes to owning and carrying firearms in Vermont.
State Permit Required to Purchase?
For both long guns and handguns, Vermont does not require a state permit to purchase. However, it's important to note that you must be at least 21 years old to purchase any firearm. For those who are 16 and wish to purchase long guns, they can do so if they are purchasing from someone other than a federally licensed firearm dealer and they present a certificate of completion of a hunter safety course approved by the Vermont Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife.
Firearm Registration?
There is no requirement for firearm registration in Vermont, regardless of whether the firearm is a long gun or a handgun.
Assault Weapon Law?
There are no specific laws in Vermont that pertain to assault weapons. This means that both long guns and handguns are not subject to any specific assault weapon laws.
Magazine Restriction?
Yes, Vermont does have restrictions on the size of magazines. A gun control bill passed on March 30, 2018, bans the sale or possession of magazines of more than 10 rounds for long guns and 15 rounds for pistols. This law was signed by Governor Scott on April 11. However, if you owned high capacity magazines before this law was passed, they are grandfathered in.
Owner License Required?
No, Vermont does not require an owner license for either long guns or handguns.
Permit Required for Concealed Carry?
Interestingly, Vermont does not require a permit for concealed carry of a handgun. You may carry open or concealed without a permit as long as you are a citizen of the U.S. or a lawfully admitted alien, and not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law.
Permit Required for Open Carry?
Similar to concealed carry, Vermont does not require a permit for open carry of a handgun or a long gun.
State Preemption of Local Restrictions?
Yes, Vermont has state preemption of local restrictions. This means that the state laws regarding firearms override any local laws or restrictions.
NFA Weapons Restricted?
No, Vermont does not restrict NFA (National Firearms Act) weapons. In fact, Vermont legalized suppressors on June 17, 2015.
Background Checks Required for Private Sales?
Yes, Vermont does require background checks for private sales of both long guns and handguns.
Red Flag Law?
Yes, Vermont has a red flag law in place. This law allows for temporary firearm confiscation from individuals deemed a risk to themselves or others.
In conclusion, Vermont's gun laws are relatively lenient compared to other states. However, it's always important to stay informed and up-to-date on the laws in your state to ensure you are in compliance.
