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Massachusetts Must Inform Officer Immediately: NO
Shall Issue (See Must Inform Section)
Note: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho,
Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi,
Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio,
Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah,
Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming have "Permitless Carry"
Anyone who can legally possess a firearm under state and federal law
may carry in these states without a Permit. Check each states page
for age or other restrictions that may apply.
Permits/Licenses This State Honors Listed Below
Massachusetts does not honor any other state permits.
How to Apply for a Permit
Notice: Massachusetts GOAL (Gun Owners’ Action League) has information for those applying in MA
after the SCOTUS ruling which Hanadgunlaw.us recommends you read for additional information.
Information Regarding LTC Restrictions After NY St. Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen
Although Bruen concerned a New York law, the Court specifically identified the “good reason” provision of
a Massachusetts law, G.L. c. 140, § 131(d), as an analogue to New York’s “proper cause” requirement.
Based on this decision, any restrictions appearing on any license holder’s License to Carry (“LTC”)—
limiting the license holder to carrying a firearm only for such activities as hunting, target shooting,
employment, or the like—are no longer enforceable. As a result, if your LTC has any such restrictions, those
restrictions are no longer enforceable. If you would like a new license issued to you to reflect this change
before your renewal, you may contact your licensing authority. Otherwise, when you reapply for an LTC in
Massachusetts Links√
State CCW Site
Non Res Application &
Instructions
Non-Res App Process
Res. CCW Application
CCW FAQ
MA DCJIS Bruen FAQs
Local Issuing Authority
2
nd
Local Issuing Authority
State Statutes
Transporting Firearms
State Admin Rules
MA Firearm Laws DPS
State Attorney General
Secretary of State
Age to Carry a Firearm
In Other States
Gun Owners Action League
Last Updated: 7/30/2024
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the future, you will be provided a new LTC without any such restrictions provided that the licensing
authority does not deem you to be a “prohibited person” or “unsuitable” under the law.
If you have any questions, please contact the firearms licensing officer at the police department or agency
that issued your LTC. (Above from Mass.gov Firearm Services FAQs)
_______________________________________
Local Police issue Resident permits. You should check with your local police as to the criteria you have to
follow to obtain and LTC. Detailed information on “How to Apply” can be found Here.
LTC (License to Carry)
The LTC permits the purchase, possession and carrying of large-capacity handguns and transporting rifles,
shotguns and Large Capacity feeding devices.
LTC Information
Your current LTC will be valid until its stated expiration date.
New applicants must be 21 years of age or older to obtain a LTC.
LTCs are valid for 6 years.
The fee for an LTC is $100.00. (Fee Chart Scroll down)
Strict new eligibility requirements now apply. Please contact your local police officials for details.
Chapter 140: Section 131. Licenses to Carry Firearms; Conditions and Restrictions
Section 131. The issuance and possession of a license to carry firearms shall be subject to the following
conditions and restrictions:
(a) A license shall entitle a holder thereof of a license to purchase, rent, lease, borrow, possess and carry:
(i) firearms, including large capacity firearms, and feeding devices and ammunition therefor, for all lawful
purposes; and
(ii) rifles and shotguns, including large capacity weapons, and feeding devices and ammunition therefor, for
all lawful purposes. H 5163 2022
How to Apply and Application
Non-Resident Permits
How to Apply for a Massachusetts Non-Resident License from the Gun Owners’ Action League GOAL.
Notice. Effective January 1, 2017, the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services
(DCJIS) Firearms Records Bureau (FRB) will implement a procedural change to the current non-resident
firearms licensing process.
Specifically, an in-person appearance at the FRB office in Chelsea, MA will only be required every six
years. You will still need to renew your license annually, however these subsequent applications will be
processed solely by mail until the next required in-person appearance.
For all renewal applications received in 2017, the next in-person appearance will be as follows:
If your birthday falls between:
You will next appear in-person in:
January 1 and April 30
2020 and every six years thereafter
May 1 and August 31
2021 and every six years thereafter
September 1 and December 31
2022 and every six years thereafter
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For all new applications received in 2017 or after, you will be required to appear in-person for your initial
application appointment and then every six years thereafter. You will still need to renew your license
annually through the mail.
Please call the Firearms Records Bureau at 617.660.4782 with any questions.
Beginning August 1st, 2009, all new and renewal non-resident temporary licenses to carry firearms (LTC) in
Massachusetts will be issued through the Massachusetts Instant Record Check System (MIRCS). MIRCS is a
computer based application used to manage, process and monitor firearms licensing statewide.
What this means for applicants:
(1) Applicants will no longer be required to obtain fingerprints from their local police departments;
(2) Applicants will no longer be required to obtain a passport size photograph;
(3) An LTC will be issued on a wallet-sized, digitally printed, plastic card;
(4) To complete the application process, all applicants will be required to appear in person at the following:
Firearms Records Bureau
Criminal History Systems Board
200 Arlington Street, Chelsea, MA 02150
Any applicant who submits an application to the Firearms Records Bureau (FRB) after June 1st, 2009, will
be contacted by FRB staff to set up an appointment for final LTC processing in Chelsea, MA.
MA Non Resident Application and Instructions MA Accepted Basic Firearms Safety Courses
Places Off-Limits Even With a Permit/License
Vehicle Carry
Section 131C. (a) No No person carrying a loaded firearm under a license issued pursuant to section 131 or
131F shall carry the loaded firearm in a vehicle unless the loaded firearm while carried in the vehicle is
under the direct control of the person. Whoever violates this subsection shall be punished by a fine of $500..
(b) No person possessing a large capacity rifle or shotgun under a license issued pursuant to section 131 or
131F shall possess the large capacity rifle or shotgun in a vehicle unless the large capacity rifle or shotgun is
unloaded and contained within the locked trunk of the vehicle or in a locked case or other secure container.
Whoever violates this subsection shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000..
284, Sec. 58 effective January 1, 2021
Elementary/Secondary Schools - College/Universities
MGL 269.10 (j) For the purposes of this paragraph, ''firearm'' shall mean any pistol, revolver, rifle or
smoothbore arm from which a shot, bullet or pellet can be discharged.
Whoever, not being a law enforcement officer and notwithstanding any license obtained by the person
pursuant to chapter 140, carries on the person a firearm, loaded or unloaded, or other dangerous weapon in
any building or on the grounds of any elementary or secondary school, college or university without the
written authorization of the board or officer in charge of the elementary or secondary school, college or
university shall be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment for not more than 2 years
or both. A law enforcement officer may arrest without a warrant and detain a person found carrying a firearm
in violation of this paragraph.
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Courthouses (I have been told that they must have security to be off-limits. Use Caution)
Part I - Title XIV - Chapter 90.
Section 61. Logan Airport security zone; access; penalties
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of any general or special law to the contrary, as a matter of public safety
and security, there is hereby created a security zone bordering the General Edward Lawrence Logan Airport
that shall include the area between the mean high water line of said airport and a line measured 500 feet
seaward of and parallel to said mean high water line from Wood Island Basin to the easterly end of Jeffries
Cove as shown on a plan entitled ''Plan of General Edward Lawrence Logan International Airport Security
Zone'' prepared by Massachusetts Port Authority Capital Programs Department, April 2002.
(b) No person, except authorized law enforcement or military personnel and authorized personnel of the
authority, shall: (1) carry or otherwise possess a firearm, rifle, shotgun, assault weapon, ammunition,
explosive device or material, or any hoax device as defined by section 102A1/2 of chapter 266, within said
security zone; (2) engage in any activity within said security zone that jeopardizes or may jeopardize the
safety or security of any person or of the airport; or (3) enter said security zone or engage in any activity,
including boating, anchoring, fishing, shell-fishing, hunting, swimming or other underwater activities, within
said security zone, except (i) as may be expressly permitted in writing by said authority……….
740 CMR 30.04 Airport Authority/Airports
(1) No person except federal or state law enforcement officers, United States Postal Service, United States
Customs and Border Patrol, Air Carrier employees approved by the TSA, members of the Armed Forces of
the United States and Massachusetts National Guard on official duty and licensed armored truck service
guards with the prior approval of the Authority, who are authorized and validly licensed to carry Firearms,
ammunition and explosives in Massachusetts, shall carry loaded or otherwise operational Firearms or
explosives on the Airport. All persons shall, promptly upon entering the passenger terminal or General
Aviation Terminal, as the case may be, deliver any unloaded Firearms and ammunition, as they are carrying
and licensed to carry under Massachusetts law to the appropriate Air Carrier agent for transport in the hold of
the aircraft, in the case of commercial flights, or directly to the aircraft, in the case of general aviation
aircraft. For transport on an Air Carrier aircraft, the Firearm shall be delivered to the agent of the Air Carrier
and shall, at all times while on the Airport, be unloaded and contained in a locked gun case; ammunition
shall be stored in a separate container, all in accordance with all applicable state and federal law. For
transport on a general aviation aircraft, Firearms shall, in all instances be unloaded and either fitted with a
trigger lock that disables the trigger or disassembled for shipment or shall be otherwise rendered unusable by
removing the bolt or otherwise disassembling the firing mechanism, as applicable. All ammunition shall be
stored in a separate box or bag.
Court Facility or Other Trial Court Buildings
"No person shall carry any weapon or firearm while in a Court Facility or other Trial Court building with the
following exceptions:
Any law enforcement officer, in the course of official business, shall be permitted to carry such weapons as
are authorized by his appointing authority while in any state or county courthouse.
740 CMR 30.01 Defines Airport - Airport shall mean an airport owned or operated by the Authority.
Logan International Airport, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport are operated by the Authority.
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Note: From my reading even the parking area would be off limits to firearms unless they are packaged and
declared for transport via an air carriers checked baggage. This would be all airports in Massachusetts which
the Airport Authority has jurisdiction over.
Casinos
CMR 205 Mass. Reg. 138.20 Possession of Firearms
(4) The gaming licensee shall post in a conspicuous location at each entrance to the gaming establishment a
legible sign that states:
"No firearms are allowed within or upon the premises of this gaming establishment. This prohibition extends
to all areas of this facility: public, non-public, restricted, and non-restricted areas. Persons violating this
restriction will be removed from the premises and subject to further investigation and, if appropriate,
prosecution. If you have any questions about this prohibition, please request to see an official from the
Massachusetts Gaming Commission Office before proceeding.
Massachusetts Environmental Police Boat and Recreation Vehicle Safety Bureau publish an Off
Highway Vehicle Brochure which states this under Prohibited Operation:
“Operating with a loaded firearm, rifle, or shotgun.”
Note: So it looks to Handgunlaw.us even with a Massachusetts Permit/License to Carry, even a No
Restrictions Permit/License, you can’t carry when on an OHV. This may also include Snowmobiles.
Mount Greylock State Reservation (Found in Hunting Regs for Greylock)
Hunting is allowed within Mount Greylock State Reservation with appropriate license(s) and/or permit(s) in
season, from Columbus Day (October) through May 20. Hikers and pets on leash are recommended to wear
blaze orange in a conspicuous manner during the hunting season. No Hunting or firearms are permitted
within the War Memorial Park, a 0.75 mile radius from the War Memorial Tower.
Woods Hole, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Steamship Authority
If planning on traveling on the above ferries you need to read the Firearms provisions they have in their
Customer Handbook. Section J 2.1. Those with a valid permit/license to carry can transport but there are
conditions that you must meet to transport it. You can read the Customer Handbook by going Here.
527 CMR: Sec. 13 Storage and Ammo Quantities Regulations:
These regulations are found in the Codes of Massachusetts Regulations or CMR's. Those controlling the
storage and quantities of ammo that a person can have on hand is in the Fire Regulations.
Boston Parks
Boston Parks Rules and Regulations Section 2 No person shall, in any public park (including any
boundary road thereof), or other public place (including any parkway) under the control of the Parks and
Recreation Commission, except under the auspices of public authority:
2 (m) have in any such park or place, except a boundary road or parkway on which there are dwellings, any
firearm or destructive weapon; or
For Federal Restrictions on Firearms see the USA Page.
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Do “No Gun Signs” Have the Force of Law?
“YES” Trespass Law
Gen Laws – Part IV – Title I Chpt. 266
Section 120 - Entry Upon Private Property After Being Forbidden as Trespass; Prima Facie Evidence;
Penalties; Arrest; Tenants or Occupants Excepted
Whoever, without right enters or remains in or upon the dwelling house, buildings, boats or improved or
enclosed land, wharf, or pier of another, or enters or remains in a school bus, as defined in section 1 of
chapter 90, after having been forbidden so to do by the person who has lawful control of said premises,
whether directly or by notice posted thereon, or in violation of a court order pursuant to section thirty-four
B of chapter two hundred and eight or section three or four of chapter two hundred and nine A, shall be
punished by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars or by imprisonment for not more than thirty days or
both such fine and imprisonment. Proof that a court has given notice of such a court order to the alleged
offender shall be prima facie evidence that the notice requirement of this section has been met. A person who
is found committing such trespass may be arrested by a sheriff, deputy sheriff, constable or police officer and
kept in custody in a convenient place, not more than twenty-four hours, Sunday excepted, until a complaint
can be made against him for the offence, and he be taken upon a warrant issued upon such complaint.
Note: Handgunlaw.us believes when you come across a business that is posted that you not just walk away.
That business needs to know that they lost your business because of their “No Gun” sign. Giving them a “No
Firearms = No Money” card would do just that. You can print free “No Firearms = No Money” cards by
going Here.
Must Inform Officer Immediately on Contact By Law?
“NO”
Part I. Title XX. Chpt. 140
Section 129C
(u) Any person who, while not being within the limits of his own property or residence, or such person
whose property or residence is under lawful search, and who is not exempt under this section, shall on
demand of a police officer or other law enforcement officer, exhibit his license to carry firearms, or his
firearm identification card or receipt for fee paid for such card, or, after January first, nineteen hundred and
seventy, exhibit a valid hunting license issued to him which shall bear the number officially inscribed of such
license to carry or card if any. Upon failure to do so such person may be required to surrender to such officer
said firearm, rifle or shotgun which shall be taken into custody as under the provisions of section one
hundred and twenty-nine D, except that such firearm, rifle or shotgun shall be returned forthwith upon
presentation within thirty days of said license to carry firearms, firearm identification card or receipt for fee
paid for such card or hunting license as hereinbefore described. Any person subject to the conditions of this
paragraph may, even though no firearm, rifle or shotgun was surrendered, be required to produce within
thirty days said license to carry firearms, firearm identification card or receipt for fee paid for such card, or
said hunting license, failing which the conditions of section one hundred and twenty-nine D will apply.
Nothing in this section shall prevent any person from being prosecuted for any violation of this chapter.
284, Sec. 41 effective January 1, 2021.
Carry In State Parks//WMA/Road Side Rest Areas & St. /Nat. Forests
Carry Allowed in these Areas:
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*State Parks: YES 302 CMR 12.04 (5)
State/National Forests: YES
State WMA: YES 321 CMR 3:01 NO State Wildlife Sanctuaries 321 CMR 7:01
Road Side Rest Areas: YES per MSP NO Nature Preserves 321 CMR 11.07
*Notice: If State Park Carry is Legal in this state and if that state park is located on a lake created by the
US Army Corp of Engineers (COE) who owns the land and leases it to the state for that park the park is Off
Limits to the legal carrying of firearms per federal law. 36 CFR 327.13 District Commanders received this
Memorandum detailing how they could authorize someone to carry on (COE) property. The (COE) has also
put out a Pamphlet on carrying firearms on (COE) Property. They do not post their property you must know
the boundaries. Hunting is usually allowed doing hunting season.
RV/Car Carry Without a Permit/License
You can’t carry a loaded firearm of any type inside any vehicle in Massachusetts without an LTC permit
issued by the state of Massachusetts.
Definition of Large Capacity Weapon
A weapon is large capacity if it is a semi-automatic handgun or rifle that is capable of accepting (or readily
modifiable to accept) any detachable large capacity feeding device that holds more than ten rounds, OR if it
is a shotgun capable of accepting more than five shotgun shells, OR if it is an assault weapon.
NOTE: A .22 caliber rifle with a fixed tubular magazine is not considered large capacity.
Transporting Firearms in Motor Vehicles
An LTC: Allows the holder to transport a loaded or unloaded handgun on his person or in a motor vehicle
if the handgun is under their direct control. Handgun does not have to be in a locked case or container.
Large-Capacity Rifles And Shotguns: No person possessing a large-capacity rifle or shotgun under an
LTC shall possess said rifle or shotgun in a motor vehicle unless unloaded and contained within a locked
trunk or in a locked case or other secure container.
NOTE: All rifles and shotguns must be unloaded when in or on a motor vehicle, but only large-capacity
rifles and shotguns are subject to the storage requirement. This also applies to Muzzleloading or other Black
Powder arms.
Q: Can I leave my gun in my car if I need to go into the store on my way home from the range or from
hunting?
A: If your handgun or large capacity rifle or shotgun is transported in accordance with the provisions of
M.G.L. c. 140, §131C (i.e. unloaded and in a locked case, locked trunk or other secure container) then the
gun may be left unattended in the vehicle. Weapons transported in this manner will automatically be
considered "stored or kept" in compliance with the safe storage requirements of §131L.
A person leaving a non-large capacity rifle or shotgun in an unattended vehicle is required to lock the rifle or
shotgun in a case/container or in the trunk, or install a mechanical locking device on the weapon (i.e. cable or
trigger lock).
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Note: Use extreme Caution when entering Massachusetts unless you have a MA Permit to Carry. The laws
are very difficult to understand and certain firearms are not allowed in the state. Follow the links above and
read the laws of MA on firearms.
Massachusetts FAQs - “Transporting Firearms.”
Open Carry (Without a Valid Permit/License)
There is no Statute in Massachusetts law that prohibits a Massachusetts license holder from carrying a
handgun openly. This Massachusetts Court Case could apply to a person with a permit and open carrying. I
would not want to be another test case.
State Preemption
Part I, Title VII, CHAPTER 43B. Home Rule Procedures
Section 13. Exercise of Powers and Functions by Municipalities
Any city or town may, by the adoption, amendment or repeal of local ordinances or by-laws, exercise any
power or function which the general court has power to confer upon it, which is not inconsistent with the
constitution or laws enacted by the general court in conformity with powers reserved to the general court by
section 8 of Article LXXXIX of the Amendments to the Constitution and which is not denied, either
expressly or by clear implication, to the city or town by its charter. Whenever appropriations, appointments,
orders, regulations or other legislative or executive actions within the scope of any such ordinance or by-law
are necessary in the exercise of any power or function authorized by such ordinance or by-law, any such
actions which are to be taken by a city council or town meeting may be taken by ordinance, by-law,
resolution, order or vote, and any such actions which are to be taken by executive officers may be taken in
any appropriate manner, subject, however, as to both such categories, to all provisions of the ordinance or
by-law in question, the city or town charter, and other applicable law. Any requirement that an ordinance or
by-law be entitled as such, or that it contain the word ''ordained,'' ''enacted'' or words of similar import shall
not affect the validity of any action which is required to be taken by ordinance or by-law. Nothing in this
section shall be construed to permit any city or town, by ordinance or by-law, to exercise any power or
function which is inconsistent with any general law enacted by the general court before November eighth,
nineteen hundred and sixty-six which applies alike to all cities, or to all towns, or to all cities and towns, or
to a class of not fewer than two. No exercise of a power or function denied to the city or town, expressly or
by clear implication, by special laws having the force of a charter under section nine of said Article, and no
change in the composition, mode of election or appointment, or terms of office of the legislative body, the
mayor or city manager or the board of selectmen or town manager, may be accomplished by by-law or
ordinance. Such special laws may be made inapplicable, and such changes may be accomplished, only under
procedures for the adoption, revision or amendment of a charter under this chapter.
Deadly Force Laws
Part III Title II Chpt. 233: Section 23F Admissibility of past physical, sexual or psychological abuse of
defendant
Part IV, Title II, Chapter 278: Section 8A. Killing or injuring a person unlawfully in a dwelling; defense
Knife Laws State/Cities
To access State/Local Knife Laws Click “Here”
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Carry in Restaurants That Serve Alcohol
YES
Note: A “YES” above means you can carry into places like described below. “NO” means you can’t.
Handgunlaw.us definition of “Restaurant Carry” is carry in a restaurant that serves alcohol. Places
like Friday’s or Red Lobster unless posted with “No Gun Signs.” This may or may not mean the bar
or the bar area of a restaurant. But you can carry your firearm into a restaurant that serves alcohol
and sit and eat without consuming. Handgunlaw.us recommends you not sit at the Bar or in the Bar
area of such restaurants. In some states it is illegal to be in the Bar area of such restaurants.
Handgunlaw.us believes you should never consume alcohol when carrying your firearm. In some
states it is illegal to take even one drink while carrying a firearm. If you want further info on carrying
in places that serve alcohol check your state laws.
Chemical Sprays/Stun Gun/Higher Capacity Magazine Laws
Large Capacity Feeding Devices:
General Laws, Part I, TitleXX, Chapter140,
Section 121: ''Large Capacity Feeding Device'',
(i) a fixed or detachable magazine, box, drum, feed strip or similar device capable of accepting, or that can
be readily converted to accept, more than ten rounds of ammunition or more than five shotgun shells; or
(ii) a large capacity ammunition feeding device as defined in the federal Public Safety and Recreational
Firearms Use Protection Act, 18 U.S.C. section 921(a)(31) as appearing in such section on September 13,
1994. The term ''large capacity feeding device'' shall not include an attached tubular device designed to
accept, and capable of operating only with,.22 caliber ammunition.
''Large capacity weapon'', any firearm, rifle or shotgun:
(i) that is semiautomatic with a fixed large capacity feeding device;
(ii) that is semiautomatic and capable of accepting, or readily modifiable to accept, any detachable large
capacity feeding device;
(iii) that employs a rotating cylinder capable of accepting more than ten rounds of ammunition in a rifle
or firearm and more than five shotgun shells in the case of a shotgun or firearm; or
(iv) that is an assault weapon.
The term ''large capacity weapon'' shall be a secondary designation and shall apply to a weapon in
addition to its primary designation as a firearm, rifle or shotgun and shall not include:
(i) any weapon that was manufactured in or prior to the year 1899;
(ii) any weapon that operates by manual bolt, pump, lever or slide action;
(iii) any weapon that is a single-shot weapon;
(iv) any weapon that has been modified so as to render it permanently inoperable or otherwise rendered
permanently unable to be designated a large capacity weapon; or
any weapon that is an antique or relic, theatrical prop or other weapon that is not capable of firing a projectile
and which is not intended for use as a functional weapon and cannot be readily modify through a
combination of available parts into an operable large capacity weapon
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Part I, Title XX Chpt. 140
Section 131M No person shall sell, offer for sale, transfer or possess an assault weapon or a large capacity
feeding device that was not otherwise lawfully possessed on September 13, 1994. Whoever not being
licensed under the provisions of section 122 violates the provisions of this section shall be punished, for a
first offense, by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not less than
one year nor more than ten years, or by both such fine and imprisonment, and for a second offense, by a fine
of not less than $5,000 nor more than $15,000 or by imprisonment for not less than five years nor more than
15 years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to: (i) the possession by a law enforcement officer; or (ii) the
possession by an individual who is retired from service with a law enforcement agency and is not otherwise
prohibited from receiving such a weapon or feeding device from such agency upon retirement.
Stun Devices/Electric Weapons
Part I, Title XX Chpt. 140
Section 131J Sections 131¾, 131K and 131P shall not apply to stun guns. The secretary of public safety and
security shall promulgate regulations restricting access or use of stun guns by non-licensed persons and
establishing minimum safety and quality standards, safe storage requirements, education and safety training
requirements and law enforcement training on the appropriate use of stun guns, which shall require that any
stun gun purchased or used by a law enforcement or public safety official include a mechanism for tracking
the number of times the stun gun has been fired.
Massachusetts Gov. FAQ on Firerarm. Q: Can I possess a stun gun in Massachusetts?
A: Yes. However you must have a current LTC (FID card holders may not purchase or possess stun guns).
Note: The US Supreme Court struck down the Massachusetts Ban on Stun Guns. They can be owned and
kept in your home but they may not be legal to carry outside the home unless you have a perm it to carry a
concealed handgun outside the home. They also must be locked up and out of the hands of unauthorized
persons. Same as firearms. Note: See the Supreme Court Decision Here that ruled they were legal to own.
Chemical Sprays:
Part I, Title XX, Chapter 140
Section 122C
(a) As used in this section and section 122D, ''self-defense spray'' shall mean chemical mace, pepper spray or
any device or instrument which contains, propels or emits a liquid, gas, powder or other substance designed
to incapacitate.
(b) Whoever, not being licensed as provided in section 122B, sells self-defense spray shall be punished by a
fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than 2 years.
(c) Whoever sells self-defense spray to a person younger than 18 years of age, if the person younger than 18
years of age does not have a firearms identification card, shall be punished by a fine of not more than $300.
(d) A person under 18 years of age who possesses self-defense spray and who does not have a firearms
identification card shall be punished by a fine of not more than $300.
Note: Those 18 and older do not need a FOID Card)
LEOSA State Information
Massachusetts LEOSA Info 1 LEOSA Qualification & Standards
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Massachusetts LEOSA Information 2 LEOSA Instructors
See the LEOSA Section on the USA Page at Handgunlaw.us for more LEOSA Information.
Attorney General Opinions/Court Cases
MA US District Court – Resident Aliens Can Obtain Permit to Keep Firearms in Their Homes.
MA Superior Ct Suffolk Co. – Suitable Person and Revoking Permit
U.S. Supreme Ct – Massachusetts Stun Gun Ban Reversed by Court. (3/16)
MA Supreme Ct – Mass Stun Gun Ban Unconstitutional (4/18)
Airport Carry/Misc. Information
Airport Carry: NO See Places off Limits Even with a Permit/License Above.
Training Valid for: No time period specified.
Time Period to Establish Residency: Upon obtaining a Massachusetts Drivers License/ID
Minimum Age for Permit/License: 21
Permit/License Info Public Information: NO
State Firearm Laws: 140-129B thru 140-131P
State Deadly Force Laws: Chpt 278 -8A & 231-85U
State Knife Laws: 269-10 thru 269-12 & 71-37H
Chemical/Electric Weapons Laws: 140.121 & 140-131J
Body Armor Laws: 269-10D
Does Your Permit Cover Other Weapons Besides Firearms? YES Part IV Title I
Chapter 269 Sec 10
State Safe Storage/Access by Minors Statute/s: MA General Laws Chpt. 140, § 131L
Is carrying of a Concealed Firearm with Permit/License
for Defensive Purposes Only While Hunting Legal? NO MA Dept of Fish & Wildlife Regs
Notes
What Does MA Consider A Loaded Firearm?
Part IV Crimes, Punishments And Proceedings in Criminal Cases
Title I Crimes And Punishments
Chapter 269 Crimes Against Public Peace
Section 12D Rifle or shotgun loaded with shells or cartridges; unloaded rifle or shotgun; carrying on
public way prohibited; exceptions; punishment
(a) Except as exempted or provided by law, no person shall carry on his person on any public way a
loaded rifle or shotgun having cartridges or shells in either the magazine or chamber thereof. For
purposes of this section, ''loaded shotgun or loaded rifle'' shall mean any shotgun or rifle having
ammunition in either the magazine or chamber thereof, such ammunition including a live cartridge,
primer (igniter), bullet or propellant powder designed for use in any firearm, rifle or shotgun and, in the
case of a muzzle loading or black powder shotgun or rifle, containing powder in the flash pan, a
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percussion cap and shot or ball; but the term ''loaded shotgun or loaded rifle'' shall not include a shotgun
or rifle loaded with a blank cartridge, which contains no projectile within such blank or within the bore or
chamber of such shotgun or rifle.
State Emergency Powers
What is a Gubernatorial State of Emergency?
The Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is authorized under state law to declare a
Gubernatorial State of Emergency upon the occurrence of a natural or man-made disaster. The law gives the
Governor broad authorities to implement emergency measures to ensure the safety and health of the residents
of the Commonwealth, take appropriate steps to mobilize state assets, and conduct other emergency business
for the protection of the Commonwealth. A Gubernatorial State of Emergency (SOE) is initiated when it
becomes necessary for the Governor to assume command (direction and control) for the efficient utilization
of the total resources of the Commonwealth, in order to mitigate the effects on people and property of a
large-scale threat, emergency or disaster.
There is a misconception that various restrictions or bans automatically are triggered when there is a
Gubernatorial State of Emergency in place. This is not so. The declaration of a State of Emergency does not
in itself affect the operation of private enterprise. Travel is not automatically banned; businesses and schools
are not automatically closed. Many businesses do have contractual agreements with their employees
regarding who does/does not have to report to work when a Gubernatorial State of Emergency is issued.
Following the January 22-23, 2005 Blizzard, some businesses revisited their policies which were probably
instigated by memories of the Blizzard of '78. The January 2005 Snowstorm presented some unique
dilemmas for employers and employees, alike. There were no travel restrictions; also, the SOE was in place
for the entire Commonwealth from January 22
nd
through 26
th
, in large regard, due to the major snow
removal issues on the South Shore and Cape Cod.
A SOE may be accompanied by a request by the Governor to stay off the roads, to release employees
early, or to stagger arrival at work, in order to promote Public Safety. Such actions, however, are usually in
the form of a request, not an order. In extreme circumstances, the Governor, as part of his SOE, may order
roads be closed to all but emergency traffic, restricting normal travel, such as occurred during and
immediately following the Blizzard of '78.
The Governor is authorized to exercise certain powers when a SOE is declared, including the power to
exercise any and all authority over persons and property necessary for meeting the State of Emergency,
including the taking and using of property for the protection of the Commonwealth. Actions such as ordering
evacuations, restricting access, implementing curfews, driving bans or restrictions, etc. can be stated in the
declaration to protect health and welfare if determined to be warranted.
The SOE may cover a specific municipality (a tornado), multiple communities or counties (a coastal
storm), or the entire Commonwealth (a major blizzard). The governor is also authorized to issue Executive
Orders to meet the needs of a threat, emergency or disaster. These Orders have the force of law and
supersede existing law if there is any conflict between a law and the Executive Order.
The Governor looks to the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Director and her/his
staff for recommendations concerning all matters related to carrying out the operational aspects of the
Commonwealth's Emergency Management Program. Specifically, in case of any and all disasters, it is as a
result of the recommendation from the MEMA Director that the Governor would declare a Gubernatorial
SOE. The Governor may, on a recommendation by the Director, authorize assistance from various
appropriate State Agencies, and request Federal Agency support allowable under existing Federal statutory
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authority, to tender assistance. MEMA drafts the appropriate documentation for a Gubernatorial SOE and
requests for Presidential Assistance when needed.
A Gubernatorial SOE does not mean that the state will provide financial assistance to cities and towns
affected by the disaster. There is no Disaster Fund available to the Governor or the MEMA Director. State
financial assistance may be made available by a vote of the Legislature following the declaration of a
Gubernatorial SOE, because of the disaster. It is important to note that there are many instances when a
Gubernatorial SOE is declared, however there is not a need for financial support to carry out emergency
actions. Operational and financial recovery assistance may become available from the Federal Government
following a disaster. It is predicated upon a Presidential Declaration of Emergency or Disaster, as we saw
following the January 22-23, 2005 Blizzard, and requires the Governor's activation of the Massachusetts
Comprehensive Emergency Management (CEM) Plan, with written justification that the Commonwealth and
its political subdivisions have inadequate resources to cope with anticipated or existing consequences of the
emergency or disaster.
The Governor is authorized with these broad emergency powers through a number of sources including
the Massachusetts Constitution, which vests supreme executive power in the Governor, and Chapter 639 of
the Massachusetts General Laws, which spells out the Commonwealth's preparation for and response to
emergencies and disasters.
This article was originally printed in City and Town, a publication of the Massachusetts's Department of
Revenue's Division of Local Services.
Note: Federal Law can apply if the state is receiving monetary and/or other assistance from the Federal
Government. See US Code 42-5207 for Federal Law as it applies to States of Emergencies.
Minimum Age for Possessing and Transporting of Handguns.
Massachusetts 21 Y/O Part I, Title XX, Chapter 140, Section 130 & 131 You must possess a FID
(Firearms Identification Card) to possess a handgun.
This is the minimum age for possessing and transporting a handgun unloaded and secured in a vehicle
without any type of permit/license to carry firearms.
Some states (and counties) require Firearms Identification Cards, and/or registration.
Note: In some states Possession and Transportation CAN be very restrictive in that you can ONLY
possess and transport a handgun to and from a Shooting Range, Gun Shop, property you own or other
places you can legally possess a handgun. Some states do not have this restriction.
This is not the last word on possession and transporting of handguns in this, or any other state. Study your
state law further for more information. See “RV/Car Carry” Section Above for more information.
Permit/License Image
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These image has been digitally assembled from other images. They may not be 100% accurate but give a good representation of the actual Permit/Licenses.
Updates to this Page
101 Links*
Archive of Previous Updates 2
.
7/1/2023 – Florida Now Honors the Massachusetts Permit to Carry. Florida Now A Permitless Carry State. All Links Checked.
8/1/2023 – North Dakota Added as Permitless Carry States Listing Under Map
9/2/2023 – Nebraska Added as a Permitless Carry State Under Map.
9/23/2023- Section 121: Added to Chem Sparys/Higher Cap Map Section Under Mag Bans.
10/15/2023 – All Links Checked.
12/13/2023 – Casinos Added to Places Off Limits Section.
1/8/2024 - All Links Checked.
7/4/2024 – Louisiana Added as Permitless Carry State in Listing Under Map.
7/30/2024 – Notice on Corp of Engineer Properties on their Lakes Added to State Park Carry.
