Arizona doesn't regulate the possession of stun guns. However, the state does impose restrictions on authorized sales of Taser-type weapons, and use of a stun gun during a crime could result in stiffer penalties. Read on for details.
Stun guns and Tasers are devices that can immobilize someone with an electrical current. Although some people (and state laws) use these terms interchangeably, they are different. Stun guns require direct contact to deliver a shock, while Tasers can either work from a distance (by shooting small probes) or on direct contact.
Arizona laws on electric weapons apply to "remote stun guns," defined as any device designed and used to incapacitate someone with an electrical charge, through either direct contact or wired probes, or through some other "conductive means." Given these terms, both stun guns and Tasers (a brand name that has become a popular term for these weapons) should fall under the definition.
(Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3117 (2024).)
Anyone in Arizona can buy or possess a stun gun without a permit. However, it's illegal to sell remote stun guns for consumer use in the state without meeting all of the following requirements:
(Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 13-3117(A), (E)(1) (2024).)
It's a felony in Arizona to use or threaten to use a remote stun gun against an on-duty law enforcement officer.
State law also increases the penalties for certain crimes when remote stun guns are involved. For example:
(Ariz. Rev. Stat. §§ 13-701, 13-704, 13-1204, 13-3117 (2024); State v. Gustafson, 311 P.3d 250 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2013).)
Some Arizona local governments (including tribal governments) may have regulations on stun guns and Tasers that are stricter than state law. You may want to contact your local law enforcement agency or a local criminal lawyer with any questions about your legal right to own, carry, or use one of these weapons where you live. However, if you're facing charges for a crime that may have involved the use of a remote stun gun, you should speak with an attorney immediately. A qualified criminal defense lawyer can evaluate the facts in your case and develop strategies for defending against the charges.