Yes, stun guns are legal in Mississippi for individuals 18+ without a permit, per Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-1. Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions, particularly in Jackson and Gulfport, where recent 2026 public safety directives mandate registration with municipal police departments for non-lethal devices.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in Mississippi
- Age Restriction: Only persons 18 years or older may possess or carry stun guns, as outlined in state statutes.
- Prohibited Locations: Stun guns are banned in courthouses, schools, and government buildings under Miss. Code Ann. § 97-37-15, with enforcement overseen by the Mississippi Department of Public Safety.
- Local Variations: Some municipalities, including Biloxi and Tupelo, require stun gun owners to notify local law enforcement annually, aligning with 2026 compliance directives from the Mississippi Municipal League.
The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office has clarified that stun guns are not classified as firearms under state law, but their use in self-defense must comply with § 97-3-15’s proportional force standards. Violations may result in misdemeanor charges or confiscation under local ordinances.