Yes, blank firing guns are legal in North Carolina but subject to strict state and local regulations.
Blank firing guns that discharge only blanks are permissible under North Carolina law, provided they comply with state statutes and municipal ordinances. The North Carolina Department of Justice (NCDOJ) classifies these devices as non-firearms, but local governments may impose additional restrictions. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to standardize blank-firing device regulations statewide, requiring retailers to verify purchaser age and maintain transaction records.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in North Carolina
- Age Verification: Purchasers must be 18 or older; sellers must verify age via government-issued ID under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-409.40.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Charlotte and Raleigh prohibit blank-firing guns in public spaces, including parks and downtown districts, under municipal public safety codes.
- Transportation: Devices must be transported unloaded and in a locked container when in a vehicle, per N.C. DMV guidance for “antique firearms” exemptions.
Violations may result in misdemeanor charges under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.1, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses. Retailers must adhere to NCDOJ’s 2025-issued compliance bulletins, which mandate point-of-sale training for employees on state and local blank-firing gun laws.