Yes, owning a tank in Belgium is legal but tightly controlled under firearms and military matériel regulations. Civilian ownership is restricted to deactivated or demilitarized tanks, requiring permits from the Federal Police’s Direction générale de la Sûreté and compliance with EU dual-use export controls. Recent 2026 amendments to the Loi sur les armes further limit caliber and armor specifications, mandating inspections by the Service Public Fédéral Intérieur.
Key Regulations for Owning a Tank in Belgium
- Permit Requirements: Civilian ownership demands a carte de détention from the Federal Police, proving legitimate purpose (e.g., historical preservation) and secure storage. Antique or replica tanks may qualify under exemptions, but proof of deactivation (e.g., turret removal) is mandatory.
- Calibre and Armor Limits: Tanks exceeding 20mm main gun caliber or 15mm armor thickness are classified as Category A weapons, barring civilian ownership. Vehicles with functional turrets or tracks trigger automatic military matériel scrutiny under the Arrêté royal du 20 juillet 2026.
- Inspection and Storage: Annual inspections by the Cellule de Contrôle des Armes verify compliance. Tanks must be stored in a licensed facility with 24/7 surveillance, documented in a registre des armes maintained by local commissariats.