No, crossbows are illegal for hunting or recreational use in Hawaii under state wildlife regulations, with exceptions for disabled individuals with permits. Local enforcement by the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) and county police departments strictly prohibits possession without a valid permit, aligning with 2023 amendments to HAR §13-123. Federal firearm laws do not preempt these state-specific restrictions.
Key Regulations for Crossbows in Hawaii
- Permit Requirement: Only individuals with a DLNR-issued disability permit may possess crossbows, per HAR §13-123-12. Permits require medical documentation and are reviewed annually.
- Hunting Prohibition: Crossbows are explicitly banned for all hunting activities, including during archery-only seasons, as outlined in DLNR’s 2024 Wildlife Administrative Rules.
- County Enforcement: Honolulu, Maui, and Hawaii County police departments conduct periodic inspections of archery ranges and retail outlets to ensure compliance with state restrictions.
Violations may result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, or confiscation under HRS §188-10.5. The DLNR’s 2026 compliance initiative targets unpermitted crossbow sales, requiring retailers to maintain transaction logs for state audits. Federal preemption does not apply due to Hawaii’s explicit statutory authority over wildlife management.