No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as “dangerous weapons” under Minnesota Statutes § 609.02, Subd. 6, making their possession or use illegal without a valid permit. Local law enforcement, including the Minneapolis Police Department, enforces these restrictions, particularly in public spaces. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to further restrict their sale, but current law already prohibits carry without justification.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Minnesota
- Prohibited Possession: Minnesota law explicitly bans the possession of shuriken unless owned prior to August 1, 1987, or obtained through a lawful transfer (Minn. Stat. § 609.66, Subd. 1d).
- Use in Public: Displaying or using shuriken in any public place—including parks, streets, or vehicles—constitutes a gross misdemeanor under § 609.713, with penalties up to 365 days imprisonment and $3,000 fines.
- Permit Exceptions: The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) may issue permits for shuriken use in controlled settings (e.g., martial arts dojos), but only with documented training and background checks.
Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, further prohibit the sale or distribution of shuriken to minors or individuals with prior violent convictions. Violations may trigger federal scrutiny under the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, particularly if linked to prohibited firearm transactions.