No, concealed carry without a permit is illegal in Massachusetts. The state mandates a License to Carry (LTC) for concealed carry, with stringent eligibility criteria enforced by local police chiefs and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS). Violations carry felony penalties under M.G.L. c. 269, § 10(a). Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize enhanced background checks and disqualifier reviews by municipal authorities.
Key Regulations for Concealed Carry Without a Permit in Massachusetts
- Licensing Requirement: An LTC issued by the applicant’s local police department or EOPSS is mandatory for concealed carry; no exceptions exist for unlicensed individuals.
- Restricted Locations: Concealed carry is prohibited in federal buildings, courthouses, schools, and private properties with posted “no firearms” signage, regardless of permit status.
- Firearm Type Limitations: Only handguns meeting Massachusetts’ roster of approved firearms may be carried, and magazine capacity is capped at 10 rounds under state law.