No. Maryland prohibits the possession, sale, or use of flamethrowers under the Public Safety Article § 10-201, classifying them as destructive devices. Local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions, and federal regulations under the ATF further limit interstate transport. Violations risk felony charges, fines up to $10,000, and imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Maryland
- State Prohibition: Public Safety Article § 10-201 explicitly bans flamethrowers as destructive devices, with no exceptions for recreational use.
- Local Ordinances: Counties like Montgomery and Baltimore may enforce stricter penalties or require special permits, though none currently permit ownership.
- Federal Compliance: The ATF regulates flamethrowers under the National Firearms Act, mandating registration and background checks for transfers, which Maryland enforces via state-level incorporation.
Recent 2026 legislative shifts in the Maryland General Assembly propose expanding the definition of “destructive devices” to include portable flame devices, signaling heightened scrutiny. The Maryland State Police Firearms Licensing Unit actively monitors compliance, with enforcement prioritizing unregistered transfers. Consultation with the Maryland Department of State Police or a licensed firearms attorney is advised before any consideration of acquisition.