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Taser and Stun Gun Laws in Pennsylvania

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

Short answer: Adults in Pennsylvania may possess and use a stun gun or Taser-type device (an "electric or electronic incapacitation device") to use reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property, as long as the device is labeled with or accompanied by clear written instructions on its use… 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 908.1(a)-(d), (f); 908(a), (c)

Tasers and stun gunsAdults in Pennsylvania may possess and use a stun gun or Taser-type device (an "electric or electronic incapacitation device") to use reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property, as long as the device is labeled with or accompanied by clear written instructions on its use and the damages it can cause. It is a crime to use such a device on another person for an unlawful purpose or to possess it intending to do so: a second-degree felony if the person intended to commit a felony, otherwise a first-degree misdemeanor. A person barred from possessing a firearm under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105 may not possess or use one. The offensive-weapons law separately lists stun guns, stun batons and Tasers among offensive weapons, which may not be made, sold, used or possessed "except as authorized by law."
Source: 18 Pa.C.S. §§ 908.1(a)-(d), (f); 908(a), (c)

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FAQ

Are Tasers and stun guns legal in Pennsylvania?
Adults in Pennsylvania may possess and use a stun gun or Taser-type device (an "electric or electronic incapacitation device") to use reasonable force in defense of themselves or their property, as long as the device is labeled with or accompanied by clear written instructions on its use and the damages it can cause. It is a crime to use such a device on another person for an unlawful purpose or to possess it intending to do so: a second-degree felony if the person intended to commit a felony, otherwise a first-degree misdemeanor. A person barred from possessing a firearm under 18 Pa.C.S. § 6105 may not possess or use one. The offensive-weapons law separately lists stun guns, stun batons and Tasers among offensive weapons, which may not be made, sold, used or possessed "except as authorized by law."

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.