No, Massachusetts prohibits civilian ownership of flamethrowers under its strict firearm-equivalent regulations, enforced by the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. Violations risk felony charges, fines up to $10,000, and potential imprisonment under MGL c. 140, § 131Z. Local fire departments may conduct inspections to verify compliance with state fire codes.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Massachusetts
- Prohibition under MGL c. 140, § 131Z: Flamethrowers are classified as “destructive devices,” requiring a Class A explosives license from the Massachusetts State Police. Civilian possession without this license is unlawful.
- Local enforcement by fire departments: Municipal fire chiefs may inspect properties for unauthorized flamethrowers, particularly in high-risk zones like industrial areas or near combustible storage.
- Penalties and enforcement shifts (2026 compliance updates): Recent amendments to the state fire code (effective 2026) mandate stricter inventory tracking for licensed owners, with penalties escalating for unregistered possession.