Yes, paintball guns are not explicitly banned in Mississippi, but their public use is tightly constrained by state and municipal laws.
Under Mississippi Code § 97-37-17, firearms and air guns are regulated, but paintball markers fall under “toy weapons” statutes. Local ordinances, particularly in Jackson and Gulfport, require permits for public discharge, with 2026 amendments tightening enforcement. Violations may incur fines up to $500 or confiscation under Hinds County’s 2025 Public Safety Directive.
Key Regulations for Paintball Guns in Public in Mississippi
- Permit Requirements: Jackson and Gulfport mandate a “Public Discharge Permit” for paintball markers, issued by local police departments. Permits are denied if the applicant has prior firearm-related convictions.
- Discharge Restrictions: Use is prohibited within 500 feet of schools, government buildings, or residential areas under Mississippi Municipal Code § 12-4.1. Violators face immediate confiscation and civil penalties.
- Age and Storage Limits: Minors under 16 must be supervised by a licensed adult; unsecured storage in vehicles or public spaces is illegal per Mississippi Bureau of Investigation’s 2026 Firearms Safety Protocol.