Gun Laws In Vermont

1. General Overview and Background

Vermont has a long tradition of permissive gun laws. Until recently, the state had very few restrictions on firearm ownership and carrying. In fact, Vermont was one of the first states to implement “constitutional carry,” meaning that residents and visitors can carry a concealed firearm without a permit.
In 2018, Vermont introduced new gun control measures that added specific restrictions on firearm ownership, purchase, and use. These changes were implemented to address concerns about gun violence while still respecting Vermont’s strong tradition of gun rights.

2. Firearm Ownership and Licensing

No Permit Required: Vermont does not require a permit to purchase or own firearms. Residents and non-residents can legally purchase and possess firearms without a license.
Age Requirements:
- You must be 16 years or older to own a firearm independently. Minors under 16 can only possess firearms with parental permission.
- Federal law requires individuals to be at least 18 to purchase a long gun (like a rifle or shotgun) and 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.
Background Checks: Federal law mandates background checks for firearms purchased from licensed dealers, but Vermont does not require background checks for private sales between individuals. However, some people choose to voluntarily conduct background checks for private transactions.

3. Permissible Firearms

Handguns, Rifles, and Shotguns: These are legal to own and possess, with minimal restrictions on type, capacity, or action (semi-automatic, bolt-action, etc.).
Prohibited Firearms: Vermont has no specific ban on assault-style rifles, though federal restrictions still apply. Vermont’s recent legislation does, however, place restrictions on magazine capacity for both rifles and handguns.
- Magazine Capacity Limits: For handguns, the limit is 15 rounds; for rifles, the limit is 10 rounds. Higher-capacity magazines owned before 2018 are generally grandfathered in.
Suppressors: Until 2015, Vermont prohibited suppressors, but they are now legal for use in hunting and shooting sports.

4. Prohibited Persons

Federal and state law restricts certain individuals from owning or possessing firearms. Prohibited persons include those with:
- Felony convictions or certain violent misdemeanor convictions.
- A history of mental illness, particularly those who have been involuntarily committed.
- Active restraining orders related to domestic violence.
- Drug addiction or substance abuse issues.
Vermont law also prohibits gun ownership for individuals under federal prohibition categories.

5. Concealed and Open Carry

Constitutional Carry: Vermont allows both concealed and open carry of firearms without a permit. This applies to both residents and non-residents, making Vermont a “constitutional carry” state.
Age Requirements: You must be at least 16 to carry a firearm without adult supervision. However, concealed carry is generally intended for adults, as minors under 18 require parental permission to possess firearms.
Restrictions on Carry Locations: Vermont law restricts carrying firearms in certain locations, including schools, federal buildings, courthouses, and other sensitive locations. Individual businesses and private property owners may also prohibit firearms on their premises.

6. Firearm Storage and Safe Handling

Storage Requirements: While Vermont doesn’t mandate specific storage laws, it encourages responsible firearm storage, especially in homes with minors. Firearm owners are advised to keep firearms unloaded and stored in a locked container or safe when not in use.
Child Access Prevention: Vermont does not have specific laws on child access prevention but holds adults responsible for any harm caused by minors who gain access to unsecured firearms.

7. Firearm Transfer and Private Sales

Private Sales: Vermont does not require background checks for private gun sales between individuals, but it’s recommended for buyers and sellers to verify each other’s eligibility.
Waiting Period: Vermont has no mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases, meaning buyers can typically receive a firearm immediately upon purchase.

8. Ammunition Regulations

Ammunition Purchase: Vermont has no restrictions on the purchase of standard ammunition types, and no license is required for purchase.
Prohibited Ammunition: Vermont follows federal regulations prohibiting armor-piercing rounds but does not have additional state-specific restrictions.

9. Penalties for Violations

Illegal Carry: Violating state or federal restrictions on where firearms can be carried, such as in schools or federal buildings, can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, confiscation, and potential jail time.
Unlawful Transfers: Selling or transferring firearms to prohibited individuals, especially those who are felons or mentally incompetent, is illegal and may result in felony charges.
Negligent Storage: While Vermont doesn’t have explicit safe storage laws, negligent storage that leads to unauthorized access by minors or other prohibited individuals can result in legal consequences.

10. Hunting and Firearm Use Regulations

Hunting with Firearms: Vermont is a popular hunting destination, and firearms are widely used for hunting. The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department regulates hunting seasons and firearm use for hunting purposes. Hunters must follow the state’s guidelines on permissible hunting firearms, calibers, and seasons.
Hunter Safety Course: Anyone born after January 1, 1975, must complete a certified hunter safety course to legally hunt in Vermont. This course includes firearm safety and responsible hunting practices.

Final Thoughts

While Vermont maintains its tradition of minimal restrictions on firearm ownership, recent laws have introduced limits on magazine capacity and requirements for firearm sales at gun shows. Gun owners are encouraged to practice responsible storage and handling and to stay informed on both state and federal firearm regulations. For any further questions or updates, the Vermont Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies provide resources for responsible gun ownership.