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Taser and Stun Gun Laws in Maryland

The rules on tasers and stun guns in Maryland: who may own and carry them, where they are banned, and the penalties, from the state code.

Short answer: Stun guns and Tasers ("electronic control devices") may be possessed or used only by people who are at least 18 and have never been convicted of a crime of violence or certain drug distribution offenses. Md. Code, Crim. Law §4-109

Tasers and stun gunsStun guns and Tasers ("electronic control devices") may be possessed or used only by people who are at least 18 and have never been convicted of a crime of violence or certain drug distribution offenses. A device may not be sold and activated in Maryland unless instructions are provided, the manufacturer keeps a record of the original owner, and a state and federal criminal background check of the owner is done. Violating the age/record rule is a misdemeanor (up to 2 months and/or $500), or a felony (up to 3 years and/or $5,000) if done while committing a crime of violence. Local governments may adopt stricter rules.

More Maryland criminal law

FAQ

Are Tasers and stun guns legal in Maryland?
Stun guns and Tasers ("electronic control devices") may be possessed or used only by people who are at least 18 and have never been convicted of a crime of violence or certain drug distribution offenses. A device may not be sold and activated in Maryland unless instructions are provided, the manufacturer keeps a record of the original owner, and a state and federal criminal background check of the owner is done. Violating the age/record rule is a misdemeanor (up to 2 months and/or $500), or a felony (up to 3 years and/or $5,000) if done while committing a crime of violence. Local governments may adopt stricter rules.

Last verified against official sources: October 27, 2026.

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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.