Yes, blank-firing guns are legal in Portugal under strict conditions. The Portuguese legal framework permits their acquisition and use for theatrical, training, or ceremonial purposes, provided compliance with national firearms legislation and municipal ordinances. The Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) and Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) enforce these rules, with recent 2026 amendments tightening storage and transport requirements.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in Portugal
- Authorization Requirement: Blank-firing guns are classified as Category D firearms under Decree-Law 254/2003, requiring prior authorization from the Direção-Geral de Administração Interna (DGAI). Applicants must demonstrate legitimate use (e.g., film production, historical reenactments) and pass a background check.
- Storage & Transport: Mandatory secure storage in a locked cabinet, separate from ammunition, with transport restricted to direct routes between authorized locations. Violations trigger penalties under Article 86 of the Firearms Law, including fines up to €3,740.
- Municipal Restrictions: Local councils (e.g., Lisbon’s Câmara Municipal) may impose additional bans in public spaces or during events. The 2026 amendments empower municipalities to require prior notification for public use, aligning with EU firearms directive transposition.