No, owning a flamethrower in Colombia is prohibited under national firearms laws, which classify such devices as “dangerous weapons” without civilian use authorization. The Ley 1801 de 2016 (Código Nacional de Seguridad y Convivencia Ciudadana) and Decreto 2535 de 1993 explicitly ban possession without military or law enforcement exemptions. Recent 2026 amendments to Resolución 00454 de 2023 by the Ministerio de Defensa reinforced enforcement, targeting civilian access to incendiary devices.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Colombia
- Absolute Prohibition: Flamethrowers are categorized under Artículo 34 of Ley 1801 as “weapons of war,” barring civilian ownership. Violations incur penalties under Artículo 340 of the Código Penal (up to 6 years imprisonment).
- Permit Exemptions: Only military, police, or licensed pyrotechnicians (e.g., film crews with Ministerio de Cultura approval) may possess flamethrowers. Civilian permits for “collectibles” are denied per Decreto 2535.
- Border Enforcement: Customs (DIAN) and Policía Nacional conduct inspections under Resolución 00454, seizing devices at entry points. Recent 2026 directives mandate digital tracking of restricted items.
Enforcement Note: Local authorities in Bogotá and Medellín have intensified patrols in high-risk zones, aligning with Plan Nacional de Seguridad 2026. Civilian inquiries require consultation with the Dirección de Armamento y Municiones (DAM).