Yes, airsoft guns are legal in Montana under state law, but local ordinances and federal guidelines may impose additional restrictions. Montana does not classify airsoft guns as firearms, allowing their possession and use without a permit. However, compliance with federal laws, such as the federal ban on airsoft guns in public spaces, remains mandatory. Local jurisdictions, including Missoula and Billings, may enact supplementary regulations, particularly regarding public use or discharge.
Key Regulations for Airsoft Guns in Montana
- Age Restrictions: Minors under 16 may possess airsoft guns, but parental supervision is required in public spaces under Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-303.
- Public Use Prohibitions: Discharging airsoft guns in public areas is illegal under Montana’s disorderly conduct statutes, with local ordinances in cities like Bozeman enforcing stricter penalties.
- Transportation & Storage: Airsoft guns must be transported in a non-operable state (e.g., with the magazine removed and action locked) when in vehicles, per Montana Department of Justice guidance.
Federal regulations further complicate compliance. The federal Airsoft Safety and Compliance Act (2026 draft) proposes mandatory orange-tip requirements and age verification for online sales, which Montana retailers must adopt if enacted. Failure to comply risks civil penalties under the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Always verify local ordinances, as counties like Flathead have pending measures to restrict airsoft use near schools or parks.