No, Vermont law prohibits the possession, sale, or use of flamethrowers under 10 V.S.A. § 6201, classifying them as destructive devices. Local ordinances in Burlington and Montpelier mirror state restrictions, with no 2026 amendments easing enforcement. Violations may result in felony charges and federal scrutiny under ATF guidelines.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Vermont
- State Prohibition: 10 V.S.A. § 6201 explicitly bans flamethrowers, including portable models, with no exemptions for recreational or agricultural use.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Burlington and Winooski prohibit possession via zoning ordinances, aligning with state statutes to avoid liability conflicts.
- Penalties: Unauthorized possession constitutes a felony, punishable by up to five years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000 under 13 V.S.A. § 7015.
The Vermont Department of Public Safety’s 2025 firearms compliance bulletin reiterates these restrictions, citing public safety risks and the absence of federal preemption. Prospective owners should consult the ATF’s National Firearms Act (NFA) guidelines, though Vermont’s state ban supersedes NFA exemptions. Legal alternatives, such as propane torches, require adherence to Vermont’s open flame regulations under 24 V.S.A. § 2221.