No, owning a flamethrower in Washington, D.C. is prohibited under the District’s strict firearm and hazardous device regulations, which classify such devices as “destructive devices” under the D.C. Official Code § 7-2501.01(4). The D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) enforces these restrictions, aligning with federal prohibitions under the National Firearms Act and local ordinances banning devices capable of causing significant property damage or bodily harm. Violations may result in felony charges, fines up to $10,000, and imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Flamethrower in Washington, D.C.
- Prohibited Classification: Flamethrowers are deemed “destructive devices” under D.C. law, requiring special permits that are effectively unobtainable for private ownership.
- MPD Enforcement: The Metropolitan Police Department rigorously enforces these bans, with no exceptions for recreational or novelty use, as clarified in MPD General Order 301.09.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Pending legislative updates may further restrict hazardous device permits, reflecting heightened scrutiny on devices with ignition capabilities exceeding 40,000 BTUs.