Are Pellet Guns Legal in California?

Pellet guns are generally legal to own and use in California, but their legality depends on specific conditions such as age restrictions, local ordinances, and where they are used. California law regulates pellet guns differently than firearms, but they are still subject to certain rules that owners must follow.

State law controls the possession and use of pellet guns within California, even though federal law also addresses airguns. Understanding these rules is crucial for residents and visitors to avoid penalties and ensure lawful use.

Is It Legal to Own or Use Pellet Guns in California?

Yes, pellet guns are legal to own and use in California, but with important limitations. Legal ownership means you can possess, purchase, and operate pellet guns under state and local laws.

This legality applies to residents, visitors, and sellers, but users must comply with age restrictions and usage rules to avoid violations.

• California permits ownership of pellet guns but prohibits their use in public places without authorization, ensuring public safety and order.

• Minors under 18 generally cannot purchase or possess pellet guns without adult supervision or parental consent, reflecting age-based legal protections.

• Retailers must comply with state laws regarding sales, including verifying buyer age and restricting sales in certain jurisdictions.

• Using pellet guns for hunting is regulated and often restricted, requiring users to check local wildlife laws before use.

• Some cities and counties impose additional restrictions or bans on pellet guns, so local laws may further limit legal use.

Overall, owning and using pellet guns in California is legal but requires awareness of these conditions to remain compliant.

What Does California State Law Say About Pellet Guns?

California law treats pellet guns as airguns, which are not classified as firearms but are regulated to prevent misuse. The state focuses on possession, sale, and use restrictions to balance lawful ownership with public safety.

Enforcement typically targets illegal sales to minors, unsafe use in public, and violations of local ordinances.

• Possession of pellet guns by adults is legal, but minors under 18 are restricted from purchasing or possessing them without adult supervision.

• Sales of pellet guns require age verification to prevent access by underage individuals, aligning with state consumer protection laws.

• Use of pellet guns in public spaces is generally prohibited unless authorized by local authorities, reducing risks of accidents or disturbances.

• Manufacture and import of pellet guns are allowed but subject to federal regulations and state oversight to ensure compliance.

• Local governments may enact ordinances banning or restricting pellet gun use, creating a patchwork of regulations across California.

These laws create a framework that allows lawful ownership while minimizing risks associated with pellet guns.

Does Federal Law Affect the Legality of Pellet Guns in California?

Federal law regulates pellet guns primarily through the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), but generally defers to state law for possession and use.

Federal statutes set baseline safety standards and restrict certain sales, but California’s laws provide more specific rules regarding age and local restrictions.

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates pellet guns as airguns, requiring safety standards for manufacturing and labeling.

• The ATF does not classify pellet guns as firearms, so federal firearm laws generally do not apply to their possession or use.

• Federal law prohibits interstate sales of pellet guns to minors, complementing California’s age restrictions on sales and possession.

• Importation of pellet guns into the U.S. is regulated federally, requiring compliance with safety and labeling requirements.

• Federal law does not preempt California’s more restrictive local ordinances or state regulations on pellet guns.

Thus, federal law sets safety and import standards but largely defers to California’s specific rules on ownership and use.

Which Law Applies in Common Real-World Scenarios?

Different laws apply depending on how and where pellet guns are owned, purchased, or used in California. Understanding these scenarios helps ensure compliance.

Each situation involves a combination of state, local, and sometimes federal laws.

• Owning a pellet gun at home: California state law governs possession, requiring owners to be adults or supervise minors properly.

• Buying a pellet gun online: Federal law regulates interstate sales, but California law requires age verification and compliance with local restrictions upon delivery.

• Transporting pellet guns across state lines: Federal import and transport laws apply, but California law controls possession once inside the state.

• Using pellet guns on private property: State law permits use on private land, but local ordinances may restrict discharge or require permits.

• Using pellet guns in public parks: Generally prohibited under California and local laws to protect public safety and prevent disturbances.

Knowing which laws apply in each context helps avoid legal issues and ensures responsible ownership.

Restrictions and Conditions You Must Follow

California imposes several important restrictions on pellet gun ownership and use to protect public safety and minors.

These conditions include age limits, location restrictions, and usage rules that owners must follow carefully.

• Age restrictions prohibit sales and possession of pellet guns by individuals under 18 without adult supervision or parental consent.

• Use of pellet guns is restricted in public places, including parks and streets, unless specifically authorized by local authorities.

• Some cities and counties ban pellet guns entirely or require permits for possession or use within their jurisdictions.

• Hunting with pellet guns is regulated by California Fish and Wildlife laws, often prohibiting their use for game hunting.

• Retailers must verify buyer age and comply with local ordinances when selling pellet guns to prevent illegal access.

Following these restrictions is essential to avoid penalties and ensure lawful use of pellet guns.

Penalties for Violating the Law in California

Violating California’s pellet gun laws can result in civil or criminal penalties depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

Penalties aim to deter illegal possession, sales to minors, and unsafe use in public places.

• Possession of pellet guns by minors without supervision can lead to confiscation and warnings or fines from law enforcement.

• Illegal sales or transfers to underage individuals may result in misdemeanor charges and fines for sellers or buyers.

• Using pellet guns in prohibited public areas can result in citations, fines, and confiscation of the pellet gun.

• Repeated or serious violations may escalate to felony charges, especially if linked to other criminal activity.

• Enforcement often begins with complaints or observed violations by police or local authorities, leading to investigations.

Understanding these penalties helps owners comply with the law and avoid legal trouble.

Common Situations Where People Get Confused

Many people misunderstand the legality of pellet guns in California, especially regarding online purchases, interstate travel, and public use.

Clarifying these points helps prevent unintentional violations.

• Online purchases: Buyers must ensure sellers comply with California age verification laws to avoid illegal sales or confiscation upon delivery.

• Interstate travel: Transporting pellet guns into California requires compliance with federal import rules and state possession laws to avoid penalties.

• Legal to own vs. legal to use: Owning a pellet gun is legal, but using it in public or restricted areas may be illegal under local ordinances.

• Federal legality myths: Pellet guns are not firearms federally, but this does not override California’s stricter state and local regulations.

• Local bans: Some cities prohibit pellet guns entirely, so owners must check local laws before possession or use.

Being aware of these common confusions promotes responsible and lawful pellet gun ownership.

Recent Legal Changes or Court Decisions

As of 2026, there have been no significant recent changes or court decisions specifically altering the legality of pellet guns in California.

The regulatory framework remains consistent, with ongoing enforcement of existing state and local laws.

• No new statewide legislation has been enacted that changes age restrictions or possession rules for pellet guns.

• Court decisions have upheld local ordinances restricting pellet gun use in public spaces.

• Federal regulations on airguns remain stable, with no recent amendments affecting California’s laws.

• Local governments continue to review and enforce existing ordinances without major changes.

• Advocacy groups monitor potential future changes but no new laws have been passed as of 2026.

Owners should stay informed but can rely on current laws remaining in effect.

Practical Examples

If you live in California and want to own a pellet gun, you can legally purchase one from a licensed retailer after verifying your age. You must use it only on private property or authorized areas, avoiding public parks or streets.

If you bought a pellet gun in another state and bring it into California, federal import laws apply during transport, but California law governs possession and use once inside the state. You must comply with age restrictions and local ordinances to avoid penalties.

• Example 1: A California resident aged 25 buys a pellet gun from a local store and uses it on their private property in a city without local bans. This is legal under state and local laws.

• Example 2: A visitor brings a pellet gun purchased in Nevada into California. They must ensure the gun complies with federal import rules and follow California’s possession and use laws, including age restrictions and local ordinances.

These examples illustrate how state and federal laws interact in real situations.

Conclusion

Pellet guns are legal to own and use in California under specific conditions, including age restrictions, local ordinances, and usage limitations. While not classified as firearms, they are regulated to protect public safety and prevent misuse.

Understanding both state and federal laws, as well as local rules, is essential for lawful ownership and use. Checking local ordinances before purchasing or using a pellet gun helps avoid penalties and ensures responsible handling of these devices.

FAQs

Can minors legally own pellet guns in California?

Minors under 18 generally cannot legally own or purchase pellet guns without adult supervision or parental consent. California law restricts sales and possession by minors to promote safety.

Is it legal to buy pellet guns online and have them shipped to California?

Yes, but sellers must comply with California’s age verification laws. Buyers must be at least 18, and local ordinances may affect delivery or possession.

What penalties exist for using pellet guns in public places in California?

Using pellet guns in public areas without authorization can result in fines, confiscation, and potential misdemeanor charges depending on local laws.

Can I transport a pellet gun across state lines into California?

Yes, but federal import laws apply during transport. Once in California, state and local laws govern possession and use, including age restrictions.

Are pellet guns considered firearms under California law?

No, pellet guns are classified as airguns, not firearms, but they are still regulated under state and local laws to ensure safe use and possession.