Yes, blank-firing guns are legal in Maine but subject to state and federal firearm regulations, including dealer licensing and prohibited use in certain contexts. The Maine Department of Public Safety and Bureau of Alcoholic Beverages and Lottery enforce compliance, with recent 2026 amendments tightening dealer record-keeping for blank-firing devices.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in Maine
- Dealer Licensing: Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders must maintain ATF-compliant records for blank-firing gun transfers, including serial numbers and purchaser identification, per 18 U.S.C. § 923.
- Prohibited Use: Blank-firing guns may not be employed in simulated crimes or public disturbances under 17-A M.R.S. § 506-A, with penalties escalating for reckless endangerment.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Portland and Bangor require additional permits for public demonstrations involving blank-firing devices, enforced by local police departments.
Blank-firing guns are classified as “firearms” under Maine’s 2025 statutory revisions, triggering background checks via the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Violations may result in felony charges under 15 M.R.S. § 393, particularly if used to intimidate or commit fraud. Dealers must also adhere to Maine’s 2026 “Secure Storage” mandates, ensuring blank-firing guns are inaccessible to minors.