Yes, blank-firing guns are legal in Minnesota when used for theatrical, ceremonial, or instructional purposes, provided they comply with state and local firearm regulations. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) classifies these devices as “antique firearms” or “replicas” under Minn. Stat. § 624.7181, exempting them from handgun permit requirements if not modified to expel projectiles. Local ordinances, such as those in Minneapolis or St. Paul, may impose additional restrictions on public discharge.
Key Regulations for Blank Firing Guns in Minnesota
- Permit Exemptions: No permit is required to possess or use blank-firing guns in Minnesota unless they are altered to fire live ammunition. Minn. Stat. § 624.7181 explicitly excludes “devices designed to discharge blanks” from firearm licensing provisions.
- Local Ordinance Compliance: Cities like Minneapolis prohibit the discharge of blank-firing guns within 500 feet of a school or residential area under municipal code § 175.05. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges.
- Age Restrictions: Users under 18 must obtain parental consent and may face additional scrutiny under Minnesota’s juvenile firearm laws (Minn. Stat. § 609.665).
The Minnesota DPS Firearms Unit enforces compliance with federal guidelines, such as the ATF’s definition of “firearm” under 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3), which excludes blank-firing devices unless modified. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to standardize reporting requirements for blank-firing gun sales, potentially mandating background checks for high-capacity models. Always verify local laws, as enforcement varies by jurisdiction.