In Washington, DC, buying or possessing ammunition is not as straightforward as stepping into a store and picking up a box from the shelf. District legislation is tight about who can have ammunition and how it can be sold. One error can put gun owners in significant legal trouble. Bottom line is you need to know the restrictions before you buy, carry or store ammo in DC.
Legal Possession Of Ammunition In Washington, D.C.?
Yes, but only if you are in one of the categories recognized by DC law. DC Code § 7-2506.01. A person shall be allowed to possess ammunition if the individual has a valid registration certificate for a firearm. There are other exclusions for licensed dealers, certain government officers and workers and for persons engaged in regulated weapons instruction. Thus, possession is not legal just because people have ammunition. Your legal standing is important. The same rule bans possession of certain prohibited pistol ammunition. So it also depends on what kind of ammo it is. If you are unsure whether your ammo is legal, don’t guess. A DC Gun Lawyer can evaluate your case and advise you what the law implies for you.
Your Gun Registration Counts
Washington takes gun registration seriously. Generally, a person shall not own or control a firearm in the District unless he has a valid registration certificate. That rule also applies to ammunition. For most people, a valid gun registration is the only way to legally own ammo. Another legal concern that could come up from keeping ammunition at home is if your gun is not registered. Here’s the thing: If you have a legal handgun in another state, that doesn’t automatically make everything lawful in D.C. You are still here and district rules still apply.
The Rules of Purchasing Ammunition
D.C. law also governs ammo sales. A licensed dealer is normally required to sell ammunition face-to-face. A nonresident must produce a valid registration certificate or qualifying proof. The ammunition must be of the same caliber or gauge as the firearm indicated on that certificate. The buyer must also sign for the receipt. So, don’t think the ammo sales are the same as across the Potomac. A valid purchase involves both the buyer and the ammunition.
What about high capacity magazines?
Another area where people can be caught off guard. Under DC law, it is unlawful to intentionally possess, sell or transfer a “large capacity ammunition feeding device.” The phrase includes, but is not limited to, magazines, drums, feed strips and belts that can, or are designed to, be readily converted to accept more than 10 rounds. There is a narrow exception for attached tubular devices that are designed to accept only.22 caliber rimfire ammo. In simple English, a magazine that holds more than 10 rounds, even if properly registered, can constitute a different legal concern.
Can You Bring Ammunition into DC?
This is where it can get tough. If someone comes into DC from Maryland, Virginia or elsewhere they could be in possession of ammunition that’s legal elsewhere. This does not mean, however, that possession is per se legal in the District. In general, under DC law, ownership of ammunition is lawful only in limited circumstances, such as when the person possesses a valid firearm registration certificate. Transport also poses separate firearm-law issues. Your gun, ammo, vehicle, route and purpose can all matter. If you’re traveling through DC with a gun and ammo, don’t depend on what’s lawful in your home state. First, look at the District rules.
Reloading and Ammunition Making
DC is also in charge of the ammunition business. In general, the District requires persons and organizations to be licensed prior to manufacturing ammunition for commercial purposes within DC. A person with registration certificates may at the same time hand load, reload or custom load ammunition for their own registered firearms. They can’t do it for other people. That makes a difference. Reloading your own ammo is one thing . Running a small ammo company out of your home is another .
What if you are arrested?
Charges of ammunition can bring heavy penalties. The exact result relies on the facts , the type of ammunition , the firearm used and the charge brought . Don’t assume that if the gun was registered, an ammunition case will just disappear. There are laws around having ammunition. If police locate ammunition during a stop, search, arrest or firearms investigation, talk to a criminal defense counsel before providing specific statements about ownership or possession. The Capital Criminal & DUI Defense Group protects individuals charged with crimes in Washington, DC. David Benowitz is an AV-rated attorney by Martindale-Hubbell with substantial experience in criminal defense. He is also a member of the National College of DUI Defense.
A Small Box Can Lead to Big Legal Trouble
Ammunition can look innocent resting in a drawer or range bag. Under D.C. law, however, possession can depend on whether you’ve registered your handgun and what kind of ammunition is involved. That is why it is important to examine the regulations before doing something. If you already have an ammunition or firearm charge, get legal help fast. The facts of your case matter and little details can transform the legal picture.
This text is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. DC gun and ammunition rules are subject to change, and a knowledgeable DC attorney should analyze your particular circumstances.
FAQs
Is it legal to own ammo in D.C.?
Ammunition: In general, a valid D.C. firearm registration certificate is required to possess ammunition. The law also has some restricted exceptions, like licensed dealers, certain government workers and permitted weapons instruction.
Can I purchase ammunition in DC without registering a gun?
Generally, no. Licensed dealers must get a valid registration certificate or qualifying proof for a non-resident. The ammo must also be the same caliber or gage as the gun.
Are magazines above 10 rounds permissible in the District of Columbia?
Generally, no. DC forbids knowingly owning, selling or transferring large capacity ammunition feeding systems that can contain, or can rapidly be restored to hold, more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
Can I transport ammo into DC from VA or MD?
Not necessarily so. This doesn’t mean DC can’t ban ammunition legal in another state. The type of ammunition and your firearm registration will determine if the possession is authorized.
Why should I hire a lawyer for an ammo charge?
Yes. There can be separate DC firearm rules and harsh penalties for an ammunition charge. A DC criminal defense attorney may analyze the facts and the evidence and the particular accusation against you.
