Yes, blank firing guns are legal in Chile under strict regulatory oversight by the Carabineros de Chile and the Subsecretaría del Interior, provided they comply with the Ley de Control de Armas de Fuego y Explosivos (Decreto Supremo N° 500/1978) and its 2023 amendments. Civilian use requires prior authorization, with blanks classified as “Category 4” devices, mandating registration and storage under controlled conditions. Unauthorized possession or misuse incurs penalties under Articles 36 and 37 of the law, including fines up to 50 UTM (≈$3,800 USD) and imprisonment for trafficking.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in Chile
- Authorization Mandate: Civilians must obtain a Permiso de Porte de Armas from Carabineros, even for blank-firing devices, with applications evaluated for criminal history and legitimate need. The 2026 draft regulations propose stricter psychological evaluations for applicants.
- Storage Requirements: Blanks must be stored in locked, tamper-proof containers at registered addresses, with annual inspections by local authorities. Violations trigger immediate confiscation under Decreto N° 103/2022.
- Use Restrictions: Discharging blanks in public spaces or near sensitive infrastructure (e.g., airports, government buildings) is prohibited, with penalties escalating under Ley N° 21.313 (2021) for endangering public order. Commercial sales require a Registro de Comerciantes from the Subsecretaría del Interior.