The laws governing the legal use, storage and carrying of firearms are constantly changing. Below are the applicable laws in the State of Massachusetts as of 11/5/2025. The below information is designed to be a guide and not the final word. If you have specific questions, please refer to the Massachusetts State legislation.  Another great resource is the Massachusetts Department of Public Safety.

Massachusetts is known for its highly regulated firearm laws designed to promote safety and public order. Whether you're a resident, visitor, or prospective gun owner, understanding the state's legal framework is essential for lawful and responsible firearm use. This guide provides a detailed overview of Massachusetts gun laws, including concealed carry regulations, the permit issuance process, common infractions, and recent legal updates.

1. Massachusetts Concealed Carry Law

Permit-Required Carry

• Concealed carry of handguns and firearms requires a License to Carry (LTC), known locally as an Unrestricted LTC for full carry rights.
• Open carry: Not permitted for civilians unless you possess a valid LTC and are in a lawful exemption (e.g., active law enforcement).

No Permitless Carry

• Unlike some states, Massachusetts does not permit permitless carry. All carry in public requires an LTC issued by local authorities.

Restrictions & Limitations

• Carry in certain locations is strictly prohibited, such as federal buildings, courthouses, schools, private property with signage prohibiting firearms, and other restricted areas.

2. How to Get a License to Carry (LTC) in Massachusetts

Application Process

• Eligibility: Applicants must be 21 years old or older.
• Application: Submit in person at your local police department or state Police Licensing Division.
• Documentation Needed:
  • Valid government-issued ID
  • Proof of firearm safety training (or exemption)
  • Residency proof (for residents)
• Background Check: The licensing authority conducts a background check to review criminal, mental health, and other disqualifications.
• Interview: An in-person interview or review process may be required.
• Processing Time: Usually 30-60 days.
• Fee: Costs vary by locality but generally range between $100 and $300.
• Validity: An LTC is valid for six years and can be renewed.

Types of Licenses

• Unrestricted LTC: Allows the holder to carry all firearms concealed or openly, with no restrictions.
• Limited LTC: May limit the type or manner of carry (e.g., only in certain locations).

3. Common Gun Law Infractions in Massachusetts

• Carrying without a permit: Most common violation, often resulting in hefty fines and potential jail time.
• Carrying into restricted locations: Such as federal buildings, courthouses, schools, or private properties with signage forbidding firearms.
• Possession by prohibited persons: Felons, individuals subject to restraining orders, or those adjudicated mentally incompetent cannot possess firearms.
• Improper storage: Failure to securely store firearms, especially if minors or prohibited persons gain access.
• Unregistered firearms or illegal modifications: Such as altering serial numbers or possession of illegal weapons.
• Discharge of firearms outside lawful zones: Shooting in densely populated or unsanctioned areas.

Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, license revocation, or felony charges in severe cases.

4. Prohibited Persons from Firearm Ownership

Massachusetts law bars certain individuals from possessing firearms, including:

• Felons and convicted violent offenders.
• Individuals subject to court restraining orders related to domestic violence.
• Mentally ill persons adjudicated mentally incompetent or involuntarily committed.
• Illegal drug users or addicts.
• Non-citizens not legally in the U.S.
• Persons dishonorably discharged from the military.
• Individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors involving violence or firearms.

5. Prohibited Places for Carrying Firearms in Massachusetts

Carry in the following places is strictly prohibited:

• Federal facilities, courthouses, and military bases.
• Schools, childcare centers, and grounds—including buses and sports events.
• Private property with posted signs prohibiting firearms.
• Hospitals, medical facilities, hospice and care centers.
• Correctional facilities, detention centers, and prisons.
• Places serving alcohol where carry is explicitly restricted.

Violations can lead to criminal charges, and carrying in these areas can be classified as a felony or serious misdemeanor.

6. Open Carry Laws in Massachusetts

• Open carry: Not permitted for civilians except under specific exemptions (e.g., law enforcement)

7. Recent Gun Law Changes in Massachusetts (Within the Last Two Years)

In the past two years, Massachusetts has undertaken legislative efforts to strengthen firearm regulations and clarify existing laws:

• Shall Issue: Following the landmark ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in NYSRPA v. Bruen on June 23, 2022—which declared that the Second Amendment does not permit strict restrictions on lawful carry—the state is now classified as a shall-issue jurisdiction for Concealed Carry Licenses (LTC).
• Enhanced Background Checks: The state has expanded its universal background check requirements for all firearm sales, including private and online transactions, to prevent prohibited persons from acquiring guns through loopholes.
• Red Flag Laws (2018): Massachusetts has a “Extreme Risk Protection Order” (ERPO) law that allows law enforcement, mental health providers, or family members to petition courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.
• High-Capacity Magazine & Assault Weapon Ban: New legislation moderates the sale, transfer, and possession of magazines over 10 rounds and semi-automatic rifles classified as assault weapons.
• Storage Laws: Recent laws mandate strict safe storage practices, especially to prevent access by minors or prohibited persons.
• Law Enforcement & Community Outreach: The state emphasizes community training, education, and law enforcement enforcement to reduce gun violence.

Legislation in Massachusetts is subject to ongoing updates, so always refer to official resources for the latest information.

8. FAQs: Massachusetts Gun Laws & Carry Rights

Q1. Do I need a permit to carry a firearm in Massachusetts?
A: Yes. A License to Carry (LTC) is mandatory for concealed carry in public. Permitless carry is not legal for civilians.

Q2. How long does it take to get an LTC?
A: The processing time generally ranges from 30 to 60 days after application submission.

Q3. Can I carry in private businesses or private property?
A: Carry on private property requires the property owner’s permission or must be in locations not posted with restrictions prohibiting firearms.

Q4. Are out-of-state permits recognized?
A: Generally no, unless the out-of-state permit is granted reciprocity by Massachusetts—that list can be found on the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.

Q5. Can I carry a firearm openly?
A: Open carry is prohibited for civilians unless on private property or in certain exempted circumstances.

Q6. What are the penalties if I carry illegally?
A: Penalties include fines, arrest, license suspension, or criminal charges, potentially escalating to felony charges if carrying in prohibited zones.

Q7. How do I confirm my permit status or reciprocity?
A: Visit the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety for updated reciprocity agreements and licensing status.

9. Important Resource Links & Contact Details

• Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety & Security:  For licensing info, laws, and reciprocity.

• Massachusetts Firearm Laws & Regulations:  The full statutes governing firearm possession, carry, and licensing.

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF): Provides federal laws related to firearms ownership and transport. 

• Local Police & Sheriff’s Offices:
  Contact your city police or county sheriff’s office for permit applications and local restrictions.

• Legal Assistance:
  Consult a qualified firearms or criminal defense attorney to understand your rights and obligations.

Final Recommendations

• Stay updated: Firearm laws evolve regularly; stay informed through official state resources.
• Respect restrictions: Always heed posted signage and private property rules.
• Secure your firearms: Use safes, locks, and safe storage methods at home and during transport.
• Carry documentation: Always carry your LTC and proof of ownership when carrying legally.
• Travel responsibly: Verify reciprocity agreements, carry permits, and laws of all jurisdictions you visit or transit.

Conclusion

Massachusetts enforces strict yet clear firearm laws aimed at ensuring safety and lawful gun ownership. To legally carry or transport firearms, residents must obtain an LTC and adhere strictly to restrictions on carry locations and transport methods. Responsibly handle firearms, stay informed, and consult legal experts or official resources to keep your rights protected.