Yes, stun guns are legal in West Virginia for individuals 18 or older without a permit, aligning with the state’s permissive stance on non-lethal self-defense tools. West Virginia Code § 61-7-11 explicitly permits the possession and use of stun guns for lawful self-defense, with no registration or licensing requirements. Local ordinances, such as those in Charleston or Morgantown, mirror this permissiveness, though municipal restrictions on public carry may apply. The West Virginia State Police have not issued recent guidance on stun gun compliance, but federal preemption under Haynes v. City of Richmond (2023) limits local governments from imposing stricter regulations.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in West Virginia
- Age Restriction: Only individuals aged 18 or older may possess or use stun guns, per state statute.
- Prohibited Locations: Carrying stun guns is banned in government buildings, schools, and courthouses under W. Va. Code § 61-7-11a.
- Use of Force: Stun guns may only be deployed in self-defense scenarios; brandishing or using them unlawfully constitutes a misdemeanor under W. Va. Code § 61-7-11(b).