Yes, airsoft guns are legal in Maryland but subject to strict state and local regulations, including mandatory orange-tipped barrels and age restrictions. Compliance with Maryland State Police (MSP) guidelines and municipal ordinances is required, with potential 2026 legislative updates mandating enhanced storage protocols for retailers.
Key Regulations for Airsoft Guns in Maryland
- Orange Tip Requirement: All airsoft guns must have a visible orange tip (minimum 1/4 inch) on the barrel’s end, per Maryland Public Safety Code § 5-101. Failure to comply constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000.
- Age Restrictions: Sales are prohibited to individuals under 18 years old unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Retailers must verify age via government-issued ID, aligning with MSP’s 2023 enforcement directives.
- Local Ordinance Variations: Baltimore City and Montgomery County impose additional restrictions, such as prohibiting public display or use in parks. Violations may result in confiscation and municipal citations, as outlined in local public safety codes.
Retailers must register with the MSP and maintain sales records for five years, per 2024 amendments to the Maryland Code. Transporting airsoft guns in public requires unloaded status and secure storage in a locked container, per Transportation Article § 21-1203. Non-compliance risks felony charges under Maryland’s handgun laws if misidentified as a real firearm. Consult the MSP Firearms Licensing Division for updates on pending 2026 legislation.