Yes, airsoft guns are legal in Tennessee, but compliance with state and local laws is mandatory. Tennessee does not classify airsoft guns as firearms, yet restrictions apply to public use and minors. Local ordinances, such as those in Nashville or Memphis, may impose additional rules, and 2026 compliance shifts could further refine regulations.
Key Regulations for Airsoft Guns in Tennessee
- Age Restrictions: Minors under 18 may possess airsoft guns but cannot use them in public spaces without adult supervision. Tennessee Code § 39-17-1306 prohibits reckless endangerment, which includes brandishing airsoft guns in a manner resembling real firearms.
- Public Use Bans: Discharging airsoft guns in public areas, including streets or parks, violates Tennessee’s disorderly conduct statutes. Local municipalities, such as Knoxville, enforce stricter prohibitions, often requiring permits for organized events.
- Transportation & Storage: Airsoft guns must be transported unloaded and in a locked case when in vehicles. Tennessee’s 2023 HB 1030 mandates secure storage to prevent unauthorized access by minors, aligning with federal guidelines under the 2026 Consumer Product Safety Commission updates.
Violations may result in misdemeanor charges, fines, or confiscation. Retailers must adhere to Tennessee’s 2024 point-of-sale requirements, including orange-tip mandates and background checks for sales to individuals under 21. Always verify local ordinances, as cities like Chattanooga have enacted additional restrictions on airsoft gun use in residential zones.