Vermont Gun Control Laws

In compliance with the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Vermont gives citizens the right to bear arms.  According to Article 1, Section 16, people have a right to defend themselves and the state.  Purchases can be made in adjacent states. Although no permits or licenses are required to own a gun, Vermont dealers must keep applications on file for a period of six year. Failure to keep good records may result in a $100 fine.

Carrying Guns and Possession Laws: Penalties & Regulations

Vermont has very few gun laws to consider. Residents can purchase guns in contiguous state, and transport a weapon, either concealed or unconcealed, without any type of license or permit. Minors, as young as 16, are allowed possession of a weapon, under certain circumstances.  However, gun possession is illegal when:

• A gun is found on the school bus or near school property.  The first offense carries a sentence of up to a year in jail and a $1000 fine
• Possession of a gun on school property, with the intent to do harm, carries a penalty of a maximum 2-year prison sentence and a $1000 fine, for the first offense
• A person found in possession of a gun during the commission of a crime faces a possible 5 more years in prison and a $500 fine

Requirements:

Vermont Gun Purchasing Laws

Vermont probably has the most lax laws for purchasing guns in the United States.  No permits or licenses are required. The law does not distinguish between residents and non-residents.  While in the state, anyone can fill out an application and purchase a gun.  According to the state statutes posted by atf.gov, no specific laws exist to restrict certain residents from purchasing firearms.

Penalties & Regulations for Illegal Purchases

According to the state statutes, no specific laws exist to restrict certain residents from purchasing firearms. The age limit is not specified, nor does the law address the subject of felons possessing firearms.  Any penalties are related to having a gun around schools, negligent use, and having a gun with the intent to harm another individual. 

Requirements:

Firing Handguns and Self Defense

Vermont has very few laws regarding the purchase or possession of handguns, rifles, or shotguns.  However, the law does specifically state that residents have the right to defend their persons and properties.  The law only steps in when someone is hurt, or has the potential of harm, due to the acts of people in possession of guns.  For example:

• A person taking a gun on school property, with the intent to harm another, faces a year in prison and a $1000 fine. For a second offense, the possible fine is $5000, 3 years in jail, or both
• Giving a child under the age of 16 possession of a gun is punishable by a $10-$50 fine

Legal Help

Although Vermont has lax gun control laws, anyone facing weapons charges needs the services of a criminal lawyer.  The lawyer can explain the law and potential penalties.  In addition, a felony can potentially be reduced to a misdemeanor, under certain circumstances.  Citizens of Vermont need a lawyer when charged with:

• Aiming a gun at another
• Possessing a deadly weapon on or around school property
• Negligent use of a gun