Yes, blank-firing guns are legal in North Dakota, but their sale, possession, and use are strictly regulated under state and local ordinances. The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) classifies blank-firing devices as “dangerous weapons” under N.D. Cent. Code § 62.1-01-01(4), requiring compliance with concealed carry and public safety statutes. Municipalities like Fargo and Bismarck impose additional restrictions, including permits for public discharge within city limits. Recent 2026 legislative updates mandate background checks for private sales, aligning with federal guidelines under the ATF’s 2025 Firearm Commerce Report.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in North Dakota
- Permit Requirements: A concealed carry permit (N.D. Admin. Code § 62.1-03-03) is mandatory for carrying blank-firing guns in public, with exceptions for private property owners. Violations incur Class B misdemeanor penalties under N.D. Cent. Code § 12.1-32-01.
- Discharge Restrictions: Discharging blank-firing guns in public spaces is prohibited in Fargo (Fargo City Code § 9-0303) and Bismarck (Bismarck Municipal Code § 10-05-07), except during licensed events with BCI approval.
- Age and Sale Protocols: Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(x)) prohibits sales to individuals under 18, while North Dakota’s 2026 amendments require licensed dealers to verify purchaser identity via the BCI’s NICS system.