No, nunchucks are illegal in Washington, D.C., under the city’s strict weapons ordinances, which classify them as prohibited “dangerous weapons” without explicit exceptions. The Metropolitan Police Department enforces this ban, and violations may result in misdemeanor charges under D.C. Code § 22-4514. Recent 2026 legislative proposals to relax restrictions have stalled, leaving the prohibition intact.
Key Regulations for Nunchucks in Washington D.C.
- Prohibition Under D.C. Code § 22-4514: Nunchucks are classified as “dangerous weapons,” making their possession, sale, or use unlawful without a special permit.
- Enforcement by MPD: The Metropolitan Police Department actively monitors compliance, with penalties including fines up to $1,000 and/or 180 days imprisonment for violations.
- No Martial Arts Exception: Unlike some states, D.C. does not recognize martial arts training or historical use as a defense for possession. The ban applies universally, regardless of intent.