Connecticut Firearm Laws: Other Topics

The Headline

This section covers Connecticut firearm rules that do not fit cleanly into the other 24 sections of this guide: the eligibility-certificate framework that gates almost every firearm acquisition (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-36f and Section 29-37p), large-capacity magazine declaration mechanics (Section 53-202x), the bump-stock ban (Section 53-206q), ghost-gun and unfinished-frame rules (Section 53-206i), the assault-weapons certificate-of-possession regime (Sections 53-202c through 53-202n), ammunition certificates, domestic-violence prohibitors and surrender requirements, the federal overlay (Gun Control Act, NFA, FOPA, LEOSA), and the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners appeal process under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-32b. If a Connecticut firearms question does not belong in any of the other sections, the short answer is here.

Connecticut is a heavily regulated firearms state. Most subjects in this catch-all are regulated at the state level, often well above the federal floor. Where another section of this guide owns the operative state-law text, this section cross-references that section rather than duplicating it.

Eligibility certificates

Connecticut layers eligibility-certificate requirements on top of the pistol permit. The certificates gate firearm acquisition independently of the carry permit.

Handgun eligibility certificate under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-36f. Required for any person who acquires a handgun (from a dealer or in a private transfer) but does not hold a pistol permit under Section 29-28 or a gun dealer's permit under Section 29-37c. The certificate uses substantially the same eligibility criteria as the pistol permit: age 21, no felony or specified misdemeanor convictions, no disqualifying mental-health adjudications, no qualifying protective orders, completion of a DESPP-approved handgun safety course, and not a federal prohibitor under 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g). The certificate is valid for five years and is issued by DESPP.

Long-gun eligibility certificate under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37p. Required for any person who acquires a long gun (rifle or shotgun) from a dealer or in a private transfer. The eligibility criteria parallel the handgun certificate (age 18 for long guns, no felony or specified misdemeanor, no disqualifying mental-health adjudications). The certificate is valid for five years.

Ammunition certificate under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37i and Section 29-38n. Required for any person who acquires ammunition or magazines. A pistol permit, handgun eligibility certificate, long-gun eligibility certificate, or gun dealer's permit also satisfies the ammunition acquisition requirement; an ammunition certificate is for persons who hold none of the above. The certificate gates the purchase only; the firearm need not be acquired through the same dealer.

The certificate scheme means that the typical Connecticut gun owner holds either (a) a pistol permit (which covers handgun, long gun, and ammunition acquisition), or (b) a stack of eligibility certificates corresponding to what he wants to buy. Carry, by contrast, requires the pistol permit; no certificate alone authorizes carry.

Large-capacity magazines

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202w bans the manufacture, sale, transfer, distribution, or import into Connecticut of any "large capacity magazine" (LCM), defined as any magazine that can hold more than 10 rounds. The statute was enacted as part of Public Act 13-3 (2013) following Sandy Hook, expanded by Public Act 23-53 (2023), and remains the operative magazine-cap framework.

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202x provides a declaration mechanism. Persons who lawfully possessed an LCM in Connecticut on or before January 1, 2014 could declare it to DESPP and retain possession. Declared LCMs may be lawfully possessed only in narrow places:

• The owner's home, where they may be loaded;
• A licensed shooting range, while engaged in shooting;
• A licensed shooting club, while attending;
• An exhibition organized by an entity recognized by DESPP;
• A test fire at a federally licensed dealer's premises;
• A gunsmith for repair;
• During transport between these locations, unloaded and locked.

Carry of a declared LCM in public outside these contexts, even by a pistol permit holder, is generally a Class A misdemeanor for first offense and a Class D felony for subsequent offenses under Section 53-202w(c).

Undeclared possession of an LCM acquired after January 1, 2014 is a Class A misdemeanor for someone otherwise eligible to possess firearms and a Class D felony for anyone ineligible.

Bump stocks (Section 53-206q)

Public Act 18-29 (2018) banned bump stocks and similar rate-of-fire enhancement devices under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-206q. Public Act 23-53, Section 19, broadened the definition. Possession is a Class D felony. There is no grandfather provision.

This statute predates and is unaffected by Garland v. Cargill, 602 U.S. 406 (2024), which invalidated the federal ATF rule reclassifying bump stocks as machine guns under the National Firearms Act. State-law bans on bump stocks remain in force; Cargill addressed federal-agency authority under 26 U.S.C. Section 5845(b), not state legislative authority.

Ghost guns and unfinished frames (Section 53-206i)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-206i, enacted by Public Act 19-6 and amended by PA 23-53, governs "ghost guns" - firearms manufactured from unfinished frames or lower receivers or otherwise lacking a serial number. The statute requires:

• Any firearm manufactured or assembled by a private individual to bear a serial number issued by DESPP;
• The maker to obtain the serial number before manufacture or within 30 days of completion;
• A criminal background check tied to the serial-number application.

Possession of an unserialized firearm or unfinished frame is a Class C felony for a person ineligible to possess firearms (with a two-year mandatory minimum prison term) and a lesser offense for eligible persons. The federal ATF Final Rule of 2022 imposing similar serialization requirements at the federal level was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in Garland v. VanDerStok, 145 S. Ct. 857 (2025). The Connecticut statute operates independently of and in parallel with the federal rule.

Assault weapons (Sections 53-202a through 53-202n)

Connecticut's assault-weapons framework has three layers:

1. 1993 ban under Public Act 93-306. The original list of banned firearms.
2. 2013 expansion under Public Act 13-3 and Public Act 13-220 (post-Sandy Hook). The list grew substantially; the by-name list and the features-based test were both expanded. Persons who lawfully owned an assault weapon before April 4, 2013 could register it with DESPP under a certificate of possession (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202c).
3. 2023 expansion under Public Act 23-53. The "Other Assault Weapon" provisions and the features-based test were broadened. Pre-2023 lawful owners had a registration window to add newly-classified firearms to their certificates of possession.

Without a valid certificate of possession, the manufacture, sale, transfer, importation, or possession of an assault weapon is a Class C felony under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202c(b). With a valid certificate, the owner may possess the firearm subject to location restrictions similar to those for declared LCMs - home, range, club, exhibition, gunsmith, test fire, or transport between them.

Domestic-violence prohibitors and firearm surrender

Connecticut layers state and federal prohibitors on domestic-violence convictions and protection orders.

• Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-217 bars possession by anyone convicted of any felony or by a person subject to a qualifying protective or restraining order.
• Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-38c authorizes a "risk warrant" allowing law enforcement to seize firearms from a person posing an imminent risk; this is Connecticut's red-flag mechanism. See the RED_FLAG section.
• Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 46b-15 (family-violence protective orders) requires the respondent to surrender firearms and ammunition for the duration of the order.
• Federal 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g)(8) bars possession by a person subject to a qualifying domestic-violence protection order.
• Federal 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g)(9) bars possession by a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

The U.S. Supreme Court in United States v. Rahimi, 602 U.S. 680 (2024), upheld 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g)(8) against a Second Amendment challenge, so the federal protection-order prohibitor remains good law post-Bruen.

Safe storage (Section 29-37i)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37i requires safe storage of any firearm on premises under the owner's control if a minor under 18 or a person prohibited from possessing firearms lives at, has access to, or is reasonably likely to gain access to the premises. The firearm must be:

• In a securely locked container; or
• Equipped with a tamper-resistant trigger lock or other locking device; or
• Carried on the person or under such close control that retrieval by an unauthorized person is reasonably prevented.

A violation that results in injury to a minor or prohibited person is a Class C felony under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37i; absent such injury, a violation is a Class D felony if intentional or grossly negligent. Public Act 19-5 expanded the framework. See the STORAGE section for full operational detail.

Board of Firearms Permit Examiners (Section 29-32b)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-32b establishes the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners, an independent appeals body for permit denials, revocations, and limitations. A denied applicant may appeal to the Board within 90 days of the denial. The Board conducts de novo hearings and may overturn the issuing authority's decision. Board decisions may be further appealed to the Superior Court under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 4-183 (Uniform Administrative Procedure Act).

The Board predates Bruen and has historically been the principal check on issuing-authority discretion under the "suitable person" standard. The Board's case law is informally collected on the DESPP website and in OLR reports; there is no statutory equivalent of a published reporter.

NFA items

NFA items (suppressors, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, machine guns, destructive devices, AOWs) are addressed in detail in the NFA_ITEMS section. The short version: Connecticut permits civilian possession of federally registered suppressors and SBRs subject to state-law overlay; machine guns must be registered with DESPP under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202; sawed-off shotguns and silencers are flatly prohibited as separate state offenses under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-211 unless lawfully registered.

Antique firearms and curios

Federal 18 U.S.C. Section 921(a)(16) defines an antique firearm as one manufactured in or before 1898, plus certain muzzleloaders and replicas. Connecticut largely follows the federal definition for acquisition purposes; antique firearms are exempt from the eligibility-certificate requirement under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-36f and Section 29-37p. Antiques remain subject to the felon-in-possession bar under Section 53a-217 and the federal 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g). Curios and relics (C&R) under ATF Form 4473 conventions remain ordinary firearms for Connecticut state law purposes.

Federal overlay

Federal firearms law sets a floor that Connecticut has consistently legislated above. The principal federal statutes that overlay Connecticut law:

• 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g) - federal prohibited-persons categories, applied through NICS;
• 18 U.S.C. Section 922(d) - federal felony to transfer to a prohibited person;
• 18 U.S.C. Section 922(t) - NICS check for dealer transfers;
• 18 U.S.C. Section 922(x) - juvenile handgun transfer bar;
• 18 U.S.C. Section 926A (FOPA, Firearms Owners Protection Act) - protects interstate transport of an unloaded firearm in a locked container, ammunition stored separately, between two states where possession is lawful. FOPA is an affirmative defense, not pretrial immunity; see TRANSPORT.
• 18 U.S.C. Section 926B (LEOSA, active law enforcement) and 18 U.S.C. Section 926C (LEOSA, retired) - qualified law enforcement officers may carry concealed nationwide. LEOSA preempts most state location restrictions but does not override the most restrictive sensitive-place rules (federal facilities, courts, schools through GFSZA, and state-level analogues).
• National Firearms Act of 1934, 26 U.S.C. Section 5801 et seq. - registration and tax framework for NFA items.
• Gun Control Act of 1968, 18 U.S.C. Section 921 et seq. - dealer licensing, interstate commerce in firearms.
• 27 C.F.R. Sections 478 and 479 - ATF regulations implementing the GCA and NFA.

Pending and recent legislation worth tracking

• Public Act 23-53 (2023) - the comprehensive 2023 reform package, including assault-weapons expansion, bump-stock and ghost-gun amendments, carry-offense felony elevation, sensitive-place expansion.
• Public Act 23-203 (2023) - further amendments to LCM and carry provisions.
• Public Act 21-67 (2021) - red-flag and risk-warrant amendments.
• Public Act 19-5 (2019) - safe storage and firearm safety in schools.
• Public Act 19-6 (2019) - ghost-gun and unfinished-frame regulation.
• Public Act 18-29 (2018) - bump-stock ban.

Several PA 23-53 sensitive-place expansions are in ongoing federal litigation under the Second Amendment as construed in Bruen and clarified in Rahimi. Verify current status of any specific expansion before relying on it.

Where to look next

• Connecticut General Assembly, cga.ct.gov, for the current text of Conn. Gen. Stat. Title 29 (Public Safety and State Police) and Title 53 (Crimes).
• Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), portal.ct.gov/DESPP, for application forms, fee schedules, and the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit contact information.
• Board of Firearms Permit Examiners, portal.ct.gov/BFPE, for appeals procedures and Board decisions.
• Connecticut Office of Legislative Research (OLR), cga.ct.gov/olr, for non-binding but thorough analytical reports on firearms statutes.
• ATF Brady Permit Chart at atf.gov for the current status of the Connecticut pistol permit as a NICS-alternative permit.
• Connecticut Judicial Branch, jud.ct.gov, for case-law searches and protective-order forms.

This catch-all reflects Connecticut law as of May 2026. The PA 23-53 sensitive-place expansions, the assault-weapon and LCM litigation, and the ongoing post-Bruen federal-court review of state firearms statutes continue to evolve. Confirm current status before relying on any provision affected by pending appellate review.

Connecticut Concealed Carry Laws - Overview

Connecticut is a shall-issue/may-issue hybrid state that requires a permit to carry a handgun. The state's right to bear arms is protected under the Connecticut Constitution, Article First, § 15, which gives every citizen the right to bear arms in defense of himself or herself and the state.

Key Regulatory Framework

Connecticut law designates four types of firearms for regulatory purposes:

• Handguns (pistols and revolvers)
• Long guns (rifles and shotguns)
• Assault weapons
• Machine guns

The degree of regulation depends on the type of firearm and whether sales/transfers are conducted by federally licensed dealers or private sellers.

Permit to Carry Handguns

• A permit is required to carry a handgun in Connecticut (CGS § 29-28; CGS § 29-35).
• Carrying a handgun without a gun permit is a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum prison term if without mitigating circumstances, and any handgun in the person's possession in violation must be forfeited (CGS § 29-35(a)(1), as amended by PA 23-53, § 1, and PA 23-203, § 1; CGS § 29-37(b), as amended by PA 23-53, § 2).
• No permit or certificate is required to possess lawfully acquired handguns in one's home, place of business, or on land the person leases or owns.
• No permit or other credential is required to carry long guns.

Requirements to Obtain a Permit or Purchase Firearms

• Anyone acquiring a handgun in Connecticut, whether from a federally licensed gun dealer or private seller, must have an eligibility certificate or a permit to sell or carry handguns.
• Applicants for a handgun permit or eligibility certificate must:
  • Pass criminal history checks
  • Be deemed "suitable"
  • Complete a DESPP-approved course on handgun safety and use
• The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) is responsible for regulating most handgun sales and transfers.

Long Gun Requirements

• Anyone acquiring a long gun must present a valid long gun eligibility certificate, handgun eligibility certificate, handgun permit, or gun dealer's permit (with certain exceptions).
• Long gun sales and transfers must conform to specified state procedures, including criminal history checks.

Ammunition Requirements

• State law generally requires anyone buying ammunition to have an ammunition certificate or a state-issued gun credential and be at least age 18.

Large Capacity Magazines (LCMs)

• It is generally prohibited to sell, buy, transfer, distribute, or bring into Connecticut any large capacity magazine - defined as any magazine that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition (CGS § 53-202w).
• Possession of an undeclared LCM is a Class D felony for those ineligible to possess firearms and a Class A misdemeanor for those who are eligible (CGS § 53-202w(c)).
• Persons who lawfully possessed LCMs before January 1, 2014 could declare them to DESPP to retain them, subject to restrictions on where they may be possessed (CGS § 53-202x).

Assault Weapons

• State law generally prohibits giving, distributing, transporting, importing, or possessing assault weapons, with limited exceptions for those who lawfully possessed them before the ban and obtained a certificate of possession from DESPP (effectively registering the weapon).

Prohibited Persons

• Certain categories of people are barred from possessing firearms or obtaining credentials to carry them.
• Individuals subject to certain civil orders of protection are ineligible for gun permits, firearms eligibility certificates, and possession of firearms and ammunition.

Restricted Locations

Firearms are prohibited in several locations, including:

• School property (CGS § 53a-217b - Class D felony)
• Buildings where either chamber of the legislature is located or where a legislative committee holds a public hearing (CGS § 2-1e(c) & (d) - Class D felony)
• State parks and forests - DEEP regulations generally prohibit carrying firearms except for authorized hunting activities in designated areas at predetermined times (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c); § 26-66-2(d))

Safe Storage Requirements

• The law prohibits storing or keeping any firearm on premises under a person's control unless the firearm is locked up or carried on the person.
• Handguns in unattended motor vehicles must be stored in the trunk, a locked safe, or a locked glove box.

Red Flag / Risk Protection Orders

• Under limited circumstances and specified procedures, law enforcement officials may obtain warrants and seize firearms from people posing an imminent risk of harming themselves or others.

Additional Regulations

• Bump stocks are regulated under state law (CGS § 53-206q, as amended by PA 23-53, § 19 - Class D felony for possession).
• Ghost guns (unfinished frames or lower receivers) are regulated; possession when ineligible to possess a firearm is a Class C felony with a two-year mandatory minimum prison term (CGS § 53-206i).
• Machine guns must be registered with DESPP within 24 hours of acquisition and annually thereafter on July 1.
• Sawed-off shotguns and silencers - owning, controlling, or possessing them is a Class D felony (CGS § 53a-211).

Board of Firearms Permit Examiners

Connecticut has a Board of Firearms Permit Examiners that handles appeals related to permit denials and revocations.

Key Statutes

Recent Legislation

• PA 23-53 - An Act Addressing Gun Violence (2023), which amended numerous firearm statutes including carry offenses, assault weapons, bump stocks, ghost guns, and ammunition provisions.
• PA 23-203 - Further amendments to LCM and carry provisions (2023).
• PA 21-67 - An Act Concerning Risk Protection Orders or Warrants and Disqualifiers for Firearm Permits and Eligibility Certificates.
• PA 19-5 - An Act Concerning the Safe Storage of Firearms in the Home and Firearm Safety Programs in Public Schools.
• PA 18-29 - An Act Concerning Bump Stocks and Other Means of Enhancing the Rate of Fire of a Firearm.

Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit Basics

Constitutional Basis

The Connecticut Constitution (Article First, § 15) gives every citizen the right to bear arms in defense of himself or herself and the state.

Permit Type

Connecticut issues a Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers (commonly called a "State Pistol Permit"). The permit authorizes the holder to carry a handgun (pistol or revolver) on their person. Connecticut law (CGS § 29-35) does not specify whether the firearm must be carried openly or concealed - both are technically permitted with a valid permit.

Two-Step Permit Process

Connecticut uses a two-part issuance process requiring approval from both local and state authorities (CGS § 29-28(b)):

Step 1: Temporary (Local) Permit

• Residents must first obtain a Temporary State Permit from the local issuing authority (police chief, chief executive officer, or designated state trooper) in the town where they reside.
• The local official investigates the applicant using a background check and must find that the applicant:
  1. Wants the firearm for lawful purposes
  2. Is a suitable person to receive a permit (suitability is left to the official's discretion; the law does not define it)

Step 2: State Permit

• After obtaining the temporary local permit, the applicant applies to the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) for the state permit.
• The State Police conducts state and national criminal history record checks.

Non-Residents

• Out-of-state residents may apply for a non-resident Connecticut Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers directly through the Connecticut State Police (SLFU.OOS@ct.gov).
• A prerequisite for the non-resident permit is that the applicant must hold a permit to carry in another state.

Eligibility Requirements

Minimum Age

• Applicants must be at least 21 years old (CGS § 29-28; CT.gov DESPP).

Residency/Citizenship

• Must be a legal resident of the United States.

Training Requirement

• Applicants must complete a DESPP-approved handgun safety and use course prior to submitting the application (CGS § 29-28(b)).
• The course must consist of no less than the NRA's "Basic Pistol Course."
• The NRA's "Home Firearms Safety Course" and "First Steps Pistol Orientation Program" are NOT approved courses.

Background Check

• Applicants must pass state and national criminal history record checks.
• Applicants must submit photographs and fingerprints in connection with the application.

Disqualifying Factors

The following persons are prohibited from obtaining a pistol permit (CGS § 29-28; CGS § 29-36f):

• Persons convicted of a felony
• Persons convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence involving the use or threatened use of physical force or a deadly weapon
• Persons convicted in Connecticut (after October 1, 1994) of any of the following 11 misdemeanors:
  1. Illegal possession of narcotics or other controlled substances (CGS § 21a-279(c))
  2. Criminally negligent homicide (CGS § 53a-58)
  3. Assault in the third degree (CGS § 53a-61)
  4. Assault of a victim 60 or older in the third degree (CGS § 53a-61a)
  5. Threatening (CGS § 53a-62)
  6. Reckless endangerment in the first degree (CGS § 53a-63)
  7. Unlawful restraint in the second degree (CGS § 53a-96)
  8. Riot in the first degree (CGS § 53a-175)
  9. Riot in the second degree (CGS § 53a-176)
  10. Inciting to riot (CGS § 53a-178)
  11. Stalking in the second degree (CGS § 53a-181d)
• Persons convicted as a delinquent for a serious juvenile offense (as defined in CGS § 46b-120)
• Persons discharged from custody within the preceding 20 years after being found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect (CGS § 53a-13)
• Persons confined in a hospital for psychiatric disabilities (as defined in CGS § 17a-495) within the preceding 12 months by order of a probate court
• Persons voluntarily admitted (on or after October 1, 2013) to a hospital for psychiatric disabilities within the preceding 12 months by order of a probate court
• Persons subject to a restraining or protective order issued by a court in a case involving the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force
• Persons subject to a firearms seizure order issued pursuant to CGS § 29-38c after notice and hearing
• Persons prohibited under federal law (18 USC § 922(g) or (n))
• Any person who is an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States
• Persons who have renounced United States citizenship
• Persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces
• Persons under the age of 21

Fees

Permit Validity & Renewal

• The permit is valid for 5 years from date of issue unless revoked or suspended (CGS § 29-30).
• Renewal fee is $70.

Processing Timeline

• The issuing authority has 90 days to review the application and issue an approval or denial.
• If denied, the authority must provide a written explanation listing the basis for denial.

Appeals

• A denial may be appealed to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners as provided under CGS § 29-32b.

Permit Revocation

• DESPP must revoke a permit upon any occurrence that would disqualify the holder (CGS § 29-32).
• Anyone who fails to surrender their permit within five days of being notified of revocation is guilty of a class A misdemeanor.

Carrying Requirements

• A permit holder must carry the permit on their person when carrying a firearm (CGS § 29-35).
• Failure to carry the permit on one's person is an infraction punishable by a $35 fine (CGS § 29-37(c)).
• Carrying a handgun without having obtained a permit is a class D felony, punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and up to $1,000 fine, with a one-year mandatory minimum sentence in the absence of mitigating circumstances (CGS § 29-37(b)).

Open vs. Concealed Carry

• Connecticut law (CGS § 29-35) does not specify whether a handgun must be carried openly or concealed. Both are technically permitted with a valid permit.
• However, the Appellate Court has recognized that open carry may subject a person to arrest under other statutes (Peruta v. Commissioner of Public Safety, 128 Conn. App. 777, 794 (2011)).

Eligibility Certificate vs. Carry Permit

• An Eligibility Certificate (CGS § 29-36f through 29-36i) allows the holder to purchase a pistol or revolver and transport it to their residence or place of business. It does not authorize carrying on one's person.
• A Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers authorizes both purchase and carrying on one's person.

No Permit Required for Home/Business Possession

• No permit or certificate is required to possess lawfully acquired handguns in one's home or place of business or on land the person leases or owns (CGS § 29-35 exceptions).

Confidentiality

• The name and address of anyone issued a gun permit, gun dealer's permit, or eligibility certificate are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (CGS § 29-28(d)).
• Information is disclosable only to: (1) law enforcement officials, (2) handgun transferors verifying credential validity, and (3) the DMHAS commissioner for specified statutory purposes.

Key Statutes

Connecticut Concealed Carry Laws

The Headline

Connecticut requires a state-issued pistol permit to carry a handgun, whether concealed or openly, in any place outside the permittee's home, place of business, or land he owns or leases. The permit is governed by Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28 (issuance) and Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35 (the carry offense). Carrying without a permit is a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum prison term as amended by Public Act 23-53 (2023) and Public Act 23-203 (2023).

Connecticut does not recognize concealed-carry permits from any other state. A non-resident who wishes to carry in Connecticut must obtain a Connecticut non-resident pistol permit under Section 29-28.

Two-Tier Permit Structure

Connecticut uses a unique two-step permit process under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28:

1. 60-day Temporary State Permit issued by the local police chief (or first selectman in towns without a police department, or the chief of the resident state trooper area). This permit is valid for 60 days from issuance and authorizes the holder to carry while the application for the permanent permit is processed by the state.
2. State Pistol Permit issued by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) through its Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. The state permit is the operative document for ongoing carry; it is valid for five years and renewable.

Both tiers require:

• The applicant be at least 21 years of age (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(b));
• Completion of a DESPP-approved handgun safety and use course (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(b)(1));
• Pass a state and federal criminal-history background check including National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS);
• Be a "suitable person" to receive the permit (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(b)) - this is a discretionary determination, but post-Bruen practice has narrowed the discretion to objective disqualifiers.

The "suitable person" standard predates N.Y. State Rifle and Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, 597 U.S. 1 (2022). Connecticut already operated as a shall-issue state with a robust appellate mechanism through the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-32b, so the Bruen impact in Connecticut was modest compared to states like New York or California. Issuing authorities may still deny on objective grounds (criminal history, disqualifying mental-health adjudications, protective-order restrictions), and denials are appealable to the Board.

Statutory Disqualifiers (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(b))

A pistol permit shall not issue to a person who:

• Has been convicted of any felony;
• Has been convicted of a misdemeanor specified in Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-36f(b) (eligibility-certificate disqualifiers), including assault, threatening, reckless endangerment in the first degree, unlawful restraint, riot, stalking, and similar offenses;
• Is the subject of a restraining order or protective order under specified statutes;
• Has been discharged from custody within the preceding 20 years after having been found not guilty of a crime by reason of mental disease or defect under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-13;
• Has been confined in a hospital for persons with psychiatric disabilities within the preceding 60 months by court order;
• Is an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States;
• Is prohibited from possessing a firearm under any provision of federal law (e.g., 18 U.S.C. Section 922(g)).

Where the Permit Authorizes Carry

A valid Connecticut pistol permit authorizes the holder to carry a handgun in most public places in Connecticut, subject to the prohibited-places restrictions detailed in the PROHIBITED_PLACES section of this guide. The permit covers both concealed and open carry; Connecticut law does not distinguish between the two modes for permit purposes.

Where the Permit Does NOT Authorize Carry

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(e) and a cluster of subject-matter statutes prohibit carry in:

• School grounds and school transportation - a Class D felony under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-217b;
• Buildings of the General Assembly or where a legislative committee is holding a public hearing, under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 2-1e;
• Federal facilities under 18 U.S.C. Section 930;
• Court facilities under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28(e);
• State parks and forests, except for authorized hunting activities in designated areas at predetermined times, under Conn. Agencies Regs. Section 23-4-1(c) and Section 26-66-2(d);
• Polling places on election day, under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 9-235a;
• Any place a private property owner has lawfully posted a no-firearms notice.

Public Act 23-53 (2023) expanded the list of statutorily prohibited "sensitive places" to include certain additional locations. Some of those expansions face ongoing federal litigation; permit holders should verify current status before relying on a 2023 or later expansion.

Carrying Without a Permit - the Section 29-35 Offense

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35(a), as amended by Public Act 23-53, Section 1, and Public Act 23-203, Section 1, makes it a Class D felony to carry a pistol or revolver outside the home, place of business, or land owned or leased by the carrier without a valid pistol permit. Penalties include:

• One-year mandatory minimum prison term in the absence of mitigating circumstances;
• Forfeiture of the handgun under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37(b) as amended by PA 23-53, Section 2;
• A standard Class D felony exposure of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000 under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-35a(8) and Section 53a-41.

On-Person Permit Requirement (Section 29-35(b))

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35(b), the permittee must:

• Carry the permit on his person at all times while carrying the handgun; and
• Present the permit upon demand of a sworn peace officer.

Failure to carry the permit on the person is a separate infraction under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37(a), not the felony offense of carrying without a permit, provided the permit was validly issued and is simply not on the person.

Non-Resident Permits

Non-residents may apply for a Connecticut pistol permit through DESPP. The application uses substantially the same eligibility criteria as the resident permit. Connecticut does not honor any other state's permit; a non-resident who carries in Connecticut without a Connecticut permit is subject to the same Section 29-35(a) Class D felony. There is no reciprocity agreement with any state. See the RECIPROCITY section for full detail.

Open Carry With a Permit

Connecticut law does not separately prohibit open carry by a permit holder. A permit authorizes both modes. As a practical matter, however, open carry can give rise to disorderly-conduct or breach-of-peace investigations under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-181, and many municipalities have a strong preference for concealment. See the OPEN_CARRY section for the operational rules.

Magazine Capacity Limit

Connecticut bans magazines over 10 rounds. Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202w, as amended by PA 23-53, Section 21, prohibits the manufacture, sale, transfer, or possession of "large capacity magazines" (LCMs). Persons who lawfully possessed an LCM before January 1, 2014 could declare it to DESPP under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202x and retain it subject to restrictions on where it may be possessed. Carry of a declared LCM is generally limited to the home, range, gunsmith, or a few narrow categories. See the RESTRICTIONS section.

Assault Weapons

The carrier should be aware of Connecticut's assault-weapons framework even though it primarily targets long guns rather than handguns. Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202a through Section 53-202n (as amended by Public Act 13-3, Public Act 13-220, and PA 23-53) bar the manufacture, sale, transfer, importation, or possession of assault weapons except for grandfathered pre-1994 and pre-2013 firearms that have been registered under a certificate of possession (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53-202c). PA 23-53 (2023) further expanded the definition under Section 53-202w to include certain previously lawful firearms and components.

Practical Considerations for Permit Holders

• The pistol permit covers handguns only. Long-gun carry is generally unregulated by the permit framework but is subject to a separate eligibility-certificate regime under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37p.
• Concealed carry is the default expectation; open carry is lawful but operationally disfavored.
• The permit must be carried on-person at all times when carrying the handgun; production on demand is mandatory.
• Connecticut does not recognize any other state's permit. Visitors should obtain a Connecticut non-resident permit or refrain from carrying.
• Magazine capacity is capped at 10 rounds.
• The permit is valid for five years; renewal must be initiated before expiration.
• Sensitive-place restrictions are extensive and were expanded by PA 23-53 in 2023; verify the current status of contested expansions before relying on them.

Cross-References

• PERMIT_BASICS - The full eligibility, application, and "suitable person" framework.
• APPLICATION_PROCESS - Step-by-step procedure for the two-tier permit.
• FEES_COSTS - Current state and local fee schedule.
• RENEWAL_PROCESS - Five-year renewal mechanics.
• PROHIBITED_PLACES - Full sensitive-places list including PA 23-53 expansions.
• OPEN_CARRY - Operational rules for openly carrying.
• RECIPROCITY - Connecticut recognizes no other state's permit.
• RESTRICTIONS - Magazine ban, assault-weapons ban, ghost-gun rules.

Statutes and Authorities Referenced

Open Carry Laws in Connecticut

Connecticut law does not explicitly prohibit or require concealed carry for permit holders. The state's firearm carry statute does not specify whether a handgun must be carried openly or concealed.

Legal Framework

• CGS § 29-35 requires a person to have a permit to carry handguns in Connecticut but does not specify whether the gun must be carried openly or concealed.
• The Connecticut Appellate Court in Peruta v. Commissioner of Public Safety, 128 Conn. App. 777, 794, 20 A.3d 691 (cert. denied, 302 Conn. 919, 28 A.3d 339 (2011)) recognized that while § 29-35 does not prohibit a permit holder from carrying a pistol openly, "depending on the specific circumstances, a person who openly carries a pistol conceivably may be subject to arrest for violating several statutes."

Permit Requirement

• A valid Connecticut pistol permit (issued under CGS § 29-28) is required to carry a handgun, whether openly or concealed.
• The permit must be carried on one's person when carrying the firearm (CGS § 29-35).

Penalties

Restrictions in State Parks and Forests

• DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)) prohibit, with exceptions, carrying firearms or other weapons in state parks or forests.
• A person may legally possess a handgun in a state park or forest only when carrying for hunting small game or participating in other authorized activities (e.g., at a firearms range or during a hunter education class), at predetermined times in areas set aside and posted by DEEP.
• On state-owned land, handguns using centerfire ammunition are prohibited for hunting; only handguns with ammunition no larger than .22 caliber rimfire long rifle cartridges are permitted (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(a)).
• Illegally carrying weapons in a state park or forest is an infraction with a total fine of $75 (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(b)(1)). DEEP may also evict the violator for 24 hours and may prohibit entry to any state park for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a)).

Key Considerations

While open carry is technically legal with a valid permit under CGS § 29-35, the Appellate Court has cautioned that open carry may expose a person to potential arrest under other statutes depending on the circumstances. Permit holders should be aware that open carry, while not explicitly prohibited by the carry statute, may attract law enforcement attention and could potentially implicate other laws.

Constitutional Carry in Connecticut

Connecticut does not have constitutional carry. The state requires a permit to legally carry a handgun.

Under CGS § 29-28, a person must obtain a permit to carry a handgun in Connecticut. There is no provision in Connecticut law that allows the permitless carrying of concealed or open firearms.

As noted in the Connecticut General Assembly's Office of Legislative Research report (2020-R-0289), "to legally carry a handgun, a person must obtain a permit to do so (CGS § 29-28)." This requirement applies broadly, including in state parks and forests where additional restrictions under Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c) further limit firearms carry.

Key Points

• Permit Required: Connecticut requires a state-issued permit (Connecticut Pistol Permit) to carry a handgun, whether openly or concealed.
• No Permitless Carry: Connecticut has not enacted any constitutional carry or permitless carry legislation.
• Statutory Authority: CGS § 29-28 governs the issuance of permits to carry pistols and revolvers.
• Penalties for Carrying Without a Permit: Carrying a handgun without a valid permit is a criminal offense under Connecticut law.

Connecticut remains one of the states that requires a government-issued permit for both open and concealed carry of handguns.

Prohibited Locations for Concealed Carry in Connecticut

Connecticut law restricts the carrying of firearms, including handguns carried under a permit, in several specific locations. A Connecticut permit to carry handguns does not authorize the permit holder to carry handguns on any property where handguns are otherwise prohibited by law or by the person who owns or exercises control over the property (CGS § 29-28(e)).

Specifically Prohibited Locations

1. School Property

• Statute: CGS § 53a-217b
• It is illegal to possess firearms on any public or private elementary or secondary school property or at any school-sponsored event, knowing that one is not licensed or privileged to do so.
• Penalty: Class D felony
• Exceptions:
  • Peace officers carrying out their official duties
  • A person using a firearm in a school-approved program or school-sponsored activity
  • A person who has an agreement with the school allowing the firearm
  • A person crossing school property with an unloaded firearm to gain access to land for hunting or other lawful purposes, provided the local or regional board of education allows this entry

2. Legislative Buildings

• Statute: CGS § 2-1e
• Firearms are prohibited in any building where either chamber of the legislature is located or where a legislative committee is holding a public hearing.
• Interference with the legislative process involving firearms, dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives is a felony.

3. State Parks and State Forests

• Regulation: Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)
• DEEP regulations prohibit hunting or carrying firearms or other weapons in a state park or forest, with limited exceptions.
• A person may legally possess a handgun in a state park or forest only when:
  • Carrying the handgun for hunting small game (e.g., rabbits, squirrels) or participating in other authorized activities such as at a firearms range or during a hunter education class
  • Doing so at predetermined times in areas set aside by DEEP and posted for such purposes (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(d))
• Additional restriction: A person cannot use a handgun with centerfire ammunition to hunt on state-owned land. Handguns with ammunition larger than .22 caliber rimfire long rifle cartridges are also prohibited on state-owned lands (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(a)).
• Penalty for violation: Infraction with a total fine of $75; DEEP may evict the violator from the property for 24 hours and may prohibit entry to any state park for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a)).

4. Private Property Where Prohibited by Owner

• Statute: CGS § 29-28(e)
• A carry permit does not authorize carrying handguns on any property where the person who owns or exercises control over the property prohibits handguns. Property owners and those who control property may prohibit firearms on their premises.

Additional Carry Restrictions

Carrying While Intoxicated

• Statute: CGS § 53-206d
• Carrying a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs is prohibited.
• Penalty: Class B misdemeanor

Carrying with Intent to Display

• Statute: CGS § 29-35
• Knowingly carrying any firearm with intent to display such firearm is prohibited.

Weapons in Vehicles

• Statute: CGS § 29-38
• Restrictions apply to weapons in vehicles.

Storage in Unattended Motor Vehicles

• The law generally prohibits storing or keeping a handgun in an unattended motor vehicle unless it is stored in:
  • The trunk
  • A locked safe
  • A locked glove box

Federal Lands (Appalachian Trail)

• Federal law allows anyone who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws to possess firearms on parts of the Appalachian Trail managed by the National Park Service (16 U.S.C. § 1a-7b).
• However, state laws and regulations apply to parts of the Appalachian Trail that pass through state-owned parks and forests, meaning the DEEP prohibition on carrying firearms in state parks applies in those sections.

Key Statutory References

Carrying Firearms in Vehicles in Connecticut

Handguns in Vehicles

Connecticut requires a Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers to carry a handgun, including in a vehicle. There is no separate vehicle carry provision - the same permit requirement applies whether carrying on one's person or in a vehicle (CGS § 29-35).

• Permit holders may carry handguns in their vehicles and must carry the permit on their person while doing so.
• Without a permit, carrying a handgun is a class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum sentence in the absence of mitigating circumstances (CGS § 29-37(b)).
• Failure to carry the permit on one's person while carrying a handgun is an infraction punishable by a $35 fine (CGS § 29-37(d)).

Safe Storage of Handguns in Motor Vehicles

Connecticut law prohibits storing or keeping a handgun in an unattended motor vehicle unless it is stored in one of the following locations (CGS § 29-38g):

1. The trunk of the vehicle
2. A locked safe
3. A locked glove box

Penalties:

• First offense: Class A misdemeanor
• Subsequent offense: Class D felony

Definition of "unattended": A motor vehicle is considered unattended if no owner, operator, or passenger who is at least age 21 is either inside the vehicle or close enough to prevent unauthorized access.

Definition of "trunk":

• The fully enclosed and locked main storage or luggage compartment of a motor vehicle that is not accessible from the passenger compartment, OR
• A locked toolbox or utility kit attached to a pickup truck bed

A "trunk" does NOT include:

• The rear of a pickup truck (except a locked toolbox/utility kit as noted above)
• The rear of a hatchback, station-wagon-type automobile, or sport utility vehicle
• Any compartment that has a window

Exemptions from safe storage requirements: The vehicle storage requirements do not apply to handguns issued to or possessed by law enforcement agencies, certain government departments (DESPP, DOC, DMV, DEEP, DCJ, Department of Revenue Services), state or U.S. military forces, sworn law enforcement officers (on or off duty), and certain other specified officials. For exempt individuals, the handgun must be stored in accordance with the issuing entity's policy (CGS § 29-38g(b)).

Long Guns in Vehicles

Long guns (rifles and shotguns) must be unloaded when being transported in a vehicle or snowmobile (CGS § 53-205). No permit is required to carry long guns, but they must be unloaded during transport.

• Violation: Class D misdemeanor
• Exemptions: Members of the military while on duty or traveling to/from assignments, and enforcement officers, security guards, or other persons employed to protect property while performing their duties.

Interstate Transportation Through Connecticut

Nonresidents may transport handguns and other firearms through Connecticut without a Connecticut permit for lawful purposes in accordance with federal law (the Firearms Owners' Protection Act), provided (CGS § 29-38d):

• They are not otherwise prohibited from shipping, transporting, receiving, or possessing firearms
• They are transporting firearms between states where they can legally possess and carry them
• The firearms must be unloaded
• The firearm and any ammunition must not be readily or directly accessible to the passenger

Nonresident Transport for Specific Purposes

Bona fide nonresidents who are permitted to possess and carry handguns in their home state may transport handguns in Connecticut without a Connecticut permit for the following specific purposes (CGS § 29-35):

1. Participating in competitions
2. Participating in firearm training at a firing range, training facility, or fish and game or sporting club
3. Taking the firearm for repair
4. Attending meetings or exhibitions of organized gun collectors

Permit Exemptions for Transport

The following activities are exempt from the permit requirement when transporting handguns (CGS § 29-35):

1. Carrying a handgun in its original package from the point of purchase to one's home or place of business
2. Carrying as merchandise
3. Carrying for repair or when moving household goods
4. Carrying to or from a testing range at a firearm permit-issuing authority's request
5. Carrying to a competition or exhibit under an out-of-state permit

Assault Weapons Transport

Transporting an assault weapon in an unauthorized manner is a class E felony (CGS § 53-202f(a)).

Carrying a Loaded Firearm While Intoxicated

It is prohibited to carry a loaded firearm while intoxicated. This is a class B misdemeanor (CGS § 53-206d(a)).

Key Statute References

Connecticut Concealed Carry Reciprocity

Overview

Connecticut does not have reciprocity agreements with any other state for concealed carry permits. Connecticut does not recognize concealed carry permits or licenses issued by any other state.

Key Points

No Recognition of Out-of-State Permits

• Connecticut requires anyone carrying a handgun to obtain a Connecticut-issued permit (CGS § 29-35).
• Out-of-state concealed carry permits are not valid in Connecticut.
• Visitors to Connecticut who wish to carry a handgun must obtain a Connecticut pistol permit.

Connecticut's Permit Requirement

• Under CGS § 29-35, anyone wanting to carry handguns in Connecticut must obtain a Connecticut gun permit and carry it upon his or her person when carrying the firearm.
• Carrying a firearm without having obtained a Connecticut permit is a class D felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to $1,000, or both, with a one-year mandatory minimum sentence in the absence of mitigating circumstances (CGS § 29-37(b)).
• Failure to carry the permit on one's person while carrying a firearm is an infraction punishable by a $35 fine (CGS § 29-37(c)).

Other States' Recognition of Connecticut Permits

Connecticut is listed by the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office (as of September 2021) among states that do not recognize Pennsylvania concealed carry licenses and require a separate license issued by that state. Similarly, Connecticut does not appear on any reciprocity agreement lists maintained by other states.

Non-Resident Permit Applications

According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's reciprocity summary, non-residents (such as Pennsylvania residents) may apply for a separate Connecticut concealed carry permit. This indicates Connecticut does issue permits to qualified non-residents.

Keeping a Connecticut Permit After Moving Out of State

According to the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Special Licensing and Firearms Unit FAQ:

• A permit holder may keep their Connecticut Pistol Permit if they move out of state, provided they:
  • Notify the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit of the change of address
  • Continue to renew the permit

States That Do NOT Recognize Connecticut Permits

Connecticut permits are generally not recognized by other states through reciprocity. Connecticut does not enter into reciprocity agreements with other states. Permit holders traveling to other states should verify that state's laws before carrying.

Relevant Statutes

Important Notes

• Connecticut law does not specify whether a handgun must be carried openly or concealed; the permit covers both methods of carry (CGS § 29-35; Peruta v. Commissioner of Public Safety, 128 Conn. App. 777 (2011)).
• Travelers to Connecticut should be aware that the state has strict firearms laws, including bans on large capacity magazines (CGS § 53-202w) and assault weapons, which may affect what firearms and accessories can legally be brought into the state.
• Connecticut state parks and forests have additional restrictions on carrying firearms under DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)).

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference purposes. Laws are subject to change. Individuals should consult with a qualified attorney or contact the Connecticut DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit for the most current information.

Connecticut Use of Force Laws

Connecticut's use-of-force framework is codified in Chapter 951 of the Connecticut Penal Code (Statutory Construction; Principles of Criminal Liability), specifically Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 53a-16 through 53a-23. These provisions govern when physical force, and in particular deadly physical force, may lawfully be used by a private person or a peace officer. They are affirmative defenses raised at trial; once raised, the prosecution bears the burden of disproving the defense beyond a reasonable doubt (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-12(a)).

The Core Statutes

Defense of Person (Section 53a-19)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-19 is the primary self-defense statute. It permits a person to use reasonable physical force upon another person when the actor reasonably believes such force is necessary to defend himself or a third person from what he reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of physical force, and may use such force as he reasonably believes necessary for such purpose.

Deadly physical force under Section 53a-19(a) is limited to circumstances where the actor reasonably believes that the other person is:

• Using or about to use deadly physical force; or
• Inflicting or about to inflict great bodily harm.

Duty to Retreat - Connecticut Is NOT a Stand-Your-Ground State

Section 53a-19(b) imposes a duty to retreat before using deadly physical force. A person is not justified in using deadly physical force if he knows that he can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety by:

1. Retreating, except that a person is not required to retreat if he is in his dwelling and was not the initial aggressor, or is a peace officer or a private person assisting a peace officer at his direction;
2. Surrendering possession of property to a person asserting a claim of right thereto; or
3. Complying with a demand that he abstain from performing an act which he is not obliged to perform.

Connecticut courts have repeatedly affirmed that the dwelling exception is narrow: it does not extend to the curtilage, to vehicles, or to a place of business in most circumstances. The "complete safety" standard is interpreted by reference to the actor's reasonable belief at the moment of decision, not perfect hindsight.

Initial Aggressor and Combat by Agreement (Section 53a-19(c))

Section 53a-19(c) disqualifies a person from claiming self-defense if he:

1. With intent to cause physical injury or death, provoked the use of physical force by the other person;
2. Is the initial aggressor, unless he has withdrawn from the encounter and effectively communicated that withdrawal to the other person but the other person continues or threatens the use of physical force; or
3. The physical force involved was the product of a combat by agreement not specifically authorized by law.

Defense of Premises (Section 53a-20)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-20 governs the use of force to defend premises. A person in possession or control of premises, or one licensed or privileged to be on such premises, may use reasonable physical force upon another person when and to the extent he reasonably believes such force is necessary to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission of a criminal trespass.

Deadly physical force in defense of premises is justified only when:

• The actor reasonably believes such force is necessary to prevent an attempt by the trespasser to commit arson or any crime of violence; or
• To the extent he reasonably believes it necessary to prevent or terminate an unlawful entry by or attack upon his dwelling, but the deadly force standard is governed by Section 53a-19 (i.e., the threat must be deadly physical force or great bodily harm).

The Connecticut Supreme Court has clarified that Section 53a-20 does not create a presumption of reasonableness similar to Florida-style castle-doctrine presumptions; reasonableness remains a jury question evaluated under Section 53a-19(a).

Defense of Property (Section 53a-21)

Section 53a-21 permits the use of reasonable physical force, but not deadly physical force, to prevent the commission of larceny or criminal mischief or to retake property recently taken. Deadly force may never be used solely to protect personal property.

Making Arrests (Section 53a-22)

Section 53a-22 governs the use of force in making arrests and preventing escapes. It distinguishes between peace officers and private persons and sets different standards for each. Private persons may use reasonable physical force, but deadly physical force is sharply restricted and generally available only to defend against deadly force used or threatened by the person being arrested.

Resisting Arrest (Section 53a-23)

Section 53a-23 makes clear that a person is not justified in using physical force to resist an arrest by a peace officer, whether the arrest is legal or illegal, except in self-defense against the officer's use of unreasonable force.

Key Case Law

• State v. Clark, 264 Conn. 723 (2003) - The Connecticut Supreme Court addressed jury instructions on self-defense in a manslaughter trial, emphasizing that the duty-to-retreat instruction must accurately convey both the "complete safety" standard and the dwelling exception.
• State v. Abney, 88 Conn. App. 495 (2005) - The Appellate Court reversed a manslaughter conviction where the trial court excluded evidence relevant to the defendant's reasonable belief and failed to properly instruct on the burden of disproving the defense.
• State v. Singleton, 292 Conn. 734 (2009) - Addressed combat by agreement and the initial-aggressor doctrine under Section 53a-19(c).
• State v. Smith, 273 Conn. 204 (2005) - Confirmed that once justification is raised, the State must disprove the defense beyond a reasonable doubt.

No Civil Immunity for Justified Force

Unlike Florida and several other states, Connecticut does not provide statutory civil immunity for a person who uses justified force in self-defense. A defender who prevails on a criminal self-defense claim may still face a civil suit by the assailant (or his estate). The criminal jury's findings on disputed facts do not have automatic preclusive effect in the civil action, though they may have substantial persuasive weight.

Practical Considerations for Permit Holders

• A valid Connecticut pistol permit (Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28) authorizes the carrying of a handgun; it does not alter the legal justifications for using force under Sections 53a-19 through 53a-22.
• The use of a firearm in self-defense will be evaluated under the deadly-physical-force standard - the threat must reasonably appear to involve deadly physical force or great bodily harm.
• The duty to retreat applies anywhere outside the dwelling whenever retreat can be accomplished with complete safety. This is the most operationally significant difference between Connecticut law and stand-your-ground regimes.
• Public Act 23-53 did not modify Sections 53a-19 through 53a-22; the 2023 reforms targeted carry offenses, magazine capacity, assault-weapon definitions, and bump stocks, leaving the use-of-force framework intact.
• A self-defense claim is an affirmative defense raised at trial. Connecticut does not have a pretrial immunity hearing on the Florida model.

Federal Overlay

Federal law adds no general use-of-force framework for private actors; state law controls. The Second Amendment, as construed in District of Columbia v. Heller, 554 U.S. 570 (2008), and N.Y. State Rifle and Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, 597 U.S. 1 (2022), protects the right to keep and bear arms for self-defense, but the substantive scope of self-defense law remains a question of state criminal law. The U.S. Supreme Court's decision in United States v. Rahimi, 602 U.S. 680 (2024), did not disturb state use-of-force statutes.

Where to Look Next

• The Connecticut General Assembly's Office of Legislative Research (OLR) reports on the Castle Doctrine and Self-Defense (Reports 2002-R-0847, 2007-R-0052, 2008-R-0320, and 2012-R-0172) provide accessible summaries of the statutory and case-law framework.
• Connecticut Practice Series, Criminal Procedure, Justifications volume, for the leading treatise treatment.
• See also CASTLE_DOCTRINE (this guide) for the narrower dwelling-defense framework, DUTY_TO_INFORM for officer-interaction rules, and UNDER_INFLUENCE for the intersection of intoxication and carry liability.

Castle Doctrine and Stand-Your-Ground in Connecticut

The Headline

Connecticut is a duty-to-retreat state with a narrow dwelling-only castle doctrine. There is no stand-your-ground law. Outside the dwelling, a person must retreat before using deadly physical force if retreat can be accomplished with "complete safety." Inside the dwelling, the duty to retreat does not apply, but the substantive standard for deadly force - reasonable belief of deadly physical force or great bodily harm - is the same as everywhere else.

The framework is statutory: Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-19 (defense of person) and Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-20 (defense of premises). There is no separate "castle doctrine statute" with presumptions on the Florida model. Reasonableness is always a jury question.

The Duty to Retreat (Section 53a-19(b))

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-19(b), a person is not justified in using deadly physical force if he knows he can avoid the necessity of using such force with complete safety by:

1. Retreating - except that retreat is not required when (a) the actor is in his dwelling and was not the initial aggressor, or (b) he is a peace officer or a private person assisting a peace officer;
2. Surrendering possession of property to a person asserting a claim of right; or
3. Complying with a demand that he abstain from performing an act which he is not obliged to perform.

"Complete safety" is the operative phrase. Connecticut courts have construed it from the actor's perspective at the moment of decision, not in perfect hindsight, but the standard is more demanding than the "reasonable opportunity to retreat" formulation used in some other duty-to-retreat states. If a jury concludes the actor could have safely stepped back, retreated to a vehicle, or moved to a position of safety, deadly force is not justified.

The Dwelling Exception

The dwelling exception in Section 53a-19(b)(1) is the entirety of Connecticut's castle doctrine. The exception applies when:

• The actor is inside the dwelling;
• The actor was not the initial aggressor in the encounter; and
• The other prerequisites of Section 53a-19(a) are met - i.e., the actor reasonably believes deadly physical force is necessary to defend against the use or imminent use of deadly physical force or against the infliction or imminent infliction of great bodily harm.

The exception removes only the retreat requirement; it does not lower the threshold for what counts as a justified use of deadly force. Connecticut does not have a "presumption of reasonable fear" comparable to Florida's Section 776.013 or Texas's Penal Code Section 9.32.

What Counts as a "Dwelling"?

Connecticut courts have construed "dwelling" narrowly. The term generally means:

• The structure (house, apartment, condominium unit) where the actor resides;
• Including the interior of the dwelling and attached structures used as living space.

The dwelling exception generally does not extend to:

• The curtilage (yard, driveway, porch) - though porches and similar transitional spaces have produced fact-specific litigation;
• Vehicles parked in a driveway or on the road;
• The actor's place of business or workplace;
• Common areas of a multi-unit building outside the actor's unit;
• Vacation cabins or rentals not used as the actor's primary or temporary dwelling.

Practitioners read Section 53a-19(b)(1) together with the State v. Shaw, 185 Conn. 372 (1981) line of cases for the boundary issues. The Connecticut Supreme Court has signaled that the dwelling concept is a question of fact in close cases, evaluated by reference to the actor's actual use of the space.

Defense of Premises (Section 53a-20)

Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-20 governs the broader defense of premises - which includes the dwelling but also other premises the actor possesses, controls, or is licensed to be on. Under Section 53a-20, the actor may use:

• Reasonable physical force to prevent or terminate the commission or attempted commission of a criminal trespass;
• Deadly physical force only to prevent an attempted arson or any crime of violence, or to the extent the actor reasonably believes deadly force is necessary to prevent or terminate an unlawful entry by force or violence into his dwelling.

The defense-of-premises statute interacts with the defense-of-person statute: the substantive threshold for deadly force inside a dwelling is still governed by Section 53a-19(a), but the no-retreat rule comes from Section 53a-19(b)(1). The two operate together.

What Connecticut Does NOT Have

• No stand-your-ground statute. Public Act 23-53 (2023) did not add stand-your-ground language; the 2023 reform package addressed assault weapons, magazine capacity, bump stocks, ghost guns, and carry offenses, leaving Sections 53a-19 and 53a-20 untouched.
• No presumption of reasonable fear when an intruder enters the dwelling. The actor must still establish, and the State must disprove, the reasonableness of the belief that deadly force was necessary.
• No civil immunity for justified force. A defender who prevails on a criminal self-defense claim under Section 53a-19 may still be sued civilly by the assailant or his estate.
• No pretrial immunity hearing. Self-defense remains an affirmative defense raised at trial, not a basis for early dismissal.

Key Case Law

• State v. Anderson, 227 Conn. 518 (1993) - The Supreme Court affirmed that the duty-to-retreat instruction must accurately convey the "complete safety" standard, and that the dwelling exception applies only when the actor is in fact in the dwelling.
• State v. Singleton, 292 Conn. 734 (2009) - Addressed combat by agreement and the initial-aggressor disqualification, both of which apply equally inside and outside the dwelling.
• State v. Edwards, 314 Conn. 465 (2014) - Confirmed that the State retains the burden of disproving self-defense beyond a reasonable doubt once the defense is raised.
• State v. Clark, 264 Conn. 723 (2003) - Discussed the proper formulation of jury instructions on duty to retreat and the dwelling exception.

Office of Legislative Research Reports

The Connecticut General Assembly's Office of Legislative Research has published several non-binding analytical reports on the castle doctrine and stand-your-ground:

• 2012-R-0172 - The Castle Doctrine and Stand-Your-Ground Law (comparison with other states);
• 2008-R-0320 - Castle Doctrine and Self Defense in Civil Cases;
• 2007-R-0052 - Castle Doctrine and Self-Defense;
• 2002-R-0847 - Use of Self Defense.

These are useful as background but do not carry the force of law; the statutes and reported case law control.

Practical Considerations for Permit Holders

• A valid Connecticut pistol permit under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-28 does not change the substantive use-of-force analysis under Section 53a-19 or Section 53a-20.
• Outside the dwelling, the duty to retreat applies. A permit holder confronted in a parking lot, on a sidewalk, or in a place of business is expected to retreat if it can be done with complete safety.
• Inside the dwelling, the duty to retreat does not apply, but the actor must still reasonably believe that deadly physical force is necessary to defend against deadly physical force or great bodily harm. Mere unlawful entry is not, by itself, automatic justification for deadly force.
• The actor must not have been the initial aggressor. A homeowner who provokes the encounter loses the dwelling exception unless he has withdrawn and effectively communicated that withdrawal.
• A self-defense claim is raised at trial. There is no pretrial dismissal mechanism. Expect a full criminal trial in any case involving the discharge of a firearm.

Cross-References

• USE_OF_FORCE - Full framework for Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 53a-16 through 53a-23, including the burden-of-proof rules.
• PROHIBITED_PLACES - Locations where carry is barred regardless of permit status.
• VEHICLE_CARRY - The dwelling exception does not extend to vehicles; the duty to retreat applies inside and outside the vehicle.
• UNDER_INFLUENCE - Intoxication while carrying intersects with the reasonableness analysis under Section 53a-19.

Duty to Inform Law Enforcement in Connecticut

The Headline

Connecticut does not impose a statutory affirmative duty on a pistol permit holder to volunteer, on first contact with a peace officer, that he is carrying a handgun. There is no analogue to the duty-to-inform statutes in states like Michigan, Ohio, or Texas. Connecticut's statutes do, however, require the permit itself to be carried at all times while carrying a handgun and produced on demand of a law enforcement officer. Failure to produce the permit is a separately punishable infraction.

The governing statutes are Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35 (carrying without a permit; on-person permit requirement) and the suite of pistol-permit provisions under Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 29-27 through 29-38.

What Connecticut Does Require

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35(b), a person carrying a handgun under a pistol permit issued under Section 29-28 must:

1. Carry the permit on his person at all times while carrying the handgun; and
2. Present the permit upon the demand of a sworn peace officer.

Failure to carry the permit on the person while carrying the handgun is an infraction punishable by fine under Section 29-37(a). It does not, by itself, constitute the felony offense of carrying without a permit under Section 29-35(a), provided the permit was validly issued and is simply not on the person at the moment of demand. The officer may take administrative action and the permit may be subject to review, but the underlying authority to carry is not voided.

What Connecticut Does NOT Require

• No affirmative duty to inform. Connecticut does not require a permit holder to volunteer the presence of a firearm at the start of an encounter with a peace officer. Cf. Michigan MCL 28.425f(3), Texas Gov't Code Section 411.205, Ohio R.C. Section 2923.12(B)(2).
• No on-demand disclosure obligation independent of the permit-production requirement. The officer's authority to demand the permit under Section 29-35(b) does not include a statutory mechanism to demand a separate verbal declaration about the firearm itself.
• No specific language requirement. Because no affirmative duty exists, there is no "exact words" statute prescribing how a permit holder must respond to an officer.
• No penalty for failure to inform. Because the duty does not exist, no penalty attaches for silence about the firearm itself (though see the "consider informing" section below for non-statutory considerations).

Interplay With Vehicle Stops

A traffic stop is a Terry-style investigative detention under Terry v. Ohio, 392 U.S. 1 (1968), and Pennsylvania v. Mimms, 434 U.S. 106 (1977). The officer has authority to order the driver and passengers out of the vehicle and to inquire about matters reasonably related to officer safety. Even without a state-law duty to inform, an officer may - and routinely will - inquire whether anyone in the vehicle is armed. A permit holder who answers truthfully is on solid ground; a permit holder who actively lies about being armed risks separate charges (interfering with an officer under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 53a-167a, false statement under Section 53a-157b).

Operational Reality - Why Many Permit Holders Inform

Even though Connecticut has no statutory duty, the prevailing practical guidance from permit-training instructors and from defense counsel is to disclose calmly and promptly:

• An armed encounter that begins with a surprise discovery (e.g., the officer sees a holster as the driver reaches for the glovebox) increases the risk of escalation. Volunteering the presence of the firearm and the permit at the start of the stop allows the officer to manage the encounter from a position of awareness.
• Connecticut permit holders are required to present the permit on demand under Section 29-35(b). In practice, when the officer asks for license and registration, presenting the pistol permit alongside is the cleanest way to discharge the production obligation.
• Officers who learn about a firearm late in an encounter sometimes respond with a defensive posture, including detention pending a check of the permit. Early disclosure tends to shorten encounters.

The Permit-Production Demand

When an officer demands the permit under Section 29-35(b), the permit holder must produce it. Connecticut has no "secure custody" statute requiring temporary surrender of the firearm; the production obligation is for the permit, not the firearm. Officers may, however, take temporary possession of the firearm for the duration of the encounter under their general officer-safety authority. Connecticut courts have not held this practice to be a Fourth Amendment violation provided it is reasonable under the totality of the circumstances and the firearm is returned at the conclusion of the encounter if the permit holder is not arrested.

Penalties Tied to Permit Possession

Under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-37(a), failure to carry the pistol permit on the person while carrying the handgun is an infraction. The fine schedule is set by the judges of the Superior Court and is in the range of other small-fine infractions (currently approximately $35-$50 with court costs and surcharges).

Carrying a handgun without a pistol permit is a separate and far more serious offense under Conn. Gen. Stat. Section 29-35(a). As amended by Public Act 23-53, Section 1, and Public Act 23-203, Section 1, the offense is a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum prison term in the absence of mitigating circumstances, and the handgun is subject to forfeiture under Section 29-37(b) as amended by PA 23-53, Section 2.

Federal Overlay

Federal law does not impose a duty to inform a state or local officer about the presence of a firearm during a traffic stop. The Second Amendment, as construed in N.Y. State Rifle and Pistol Ass'n v. Bruen, 597 U.S. 1 (2022), does not address officer-interaction disclosure rules; these are matters of state criminal procedure.

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA), 18 U.S.C. Section 926B (active) and 18 U.S.C. Section 926C (retired), authorizes qualified active and retired officers to carry concealed nationwide. LEOSA imposes its own identification-on-demand obligations on the qualified officer; LEOSA carriers should be aware of those requirements in addition to (or in lieu of) any state duty-to-inform.

Practical Guidance for Permit Holders

• Carry the permit on your person whenever you are carrying the handgun. Production on demand is mandatory; failure is an infraction.
• When stopped by an officer, present the pistol permit with your driver's license. This discharges the production obligation cleanly.
• Keep your hands visible. Announce that you have a pistol permit and a firearm before reaching for any document; let the officer direct the encounter.
• Do not lie about being armed if asked. Connecticut has no duty to volunteer, but actively misleading an officer can lead to separate charges.
• Comply with reasonable officer-safety directions. Temporary possession of the firearm by the officer during the encounter is lawful and routine.
• Know that no specific words are required. A calm, clear statement - "Officer, I have a Connecticut pistol permit and I am carrying a handgun on my right hip; the permit is in my wallet" - is conventionally accepted.

Cross-References

• PERMIT_BASICS - Eligibility, issuance, and renewal of the pistol permit under Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 29-27 through 29-32.
• CONCEALED_CARRY - Operational rules for carrying under the permit.
• VEHICLE_CARRY - Vehicle-specific rules including loaded-carry while traveling.
• USE_OF_FORCE - The substantive standard for any use of force during an officer encounter.

Where to Look Next

• Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit, portal.ct.gov/DESPP.
• Connecticut General Assembly, search for Conn. Gen. Stat. Sections 29-28, 29-35, 29-37.
• The Office of Legislative Research has produced multiple reports on the pistol permit framework; OLR Report 2023-R-0119 summarizes the post-PA 23-53 carry offenses.

Training Requirements for Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit

Mandatory Firearms Safety Course

Under C.G.S. § 29-28, all applicants for a Connecticut pistol permit (which serves as the state's concealed carry permit) must successfully complete an approved handgun safety course prior to submitting the application.

Minimum Course Standard

The required training course must consist of no less than the NRA's "Basic Pistol Course." This is the minimum standard set by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU).

Courses That Are NOT Approved

The following NRA courses do not meet Connecticut's training requirements:

• NRA "Home Firearms Safety Course" - not approved
• NRA "First Steps Pistol Orientation Program" - not approved

Live Fire Requirement

Connecticut requires live fire as part of the training course. The following alternatives are not acceptable:

• Computer-generated programs
• Dry-fire exercises
• Other simulated shooting tools
• Plastic bullets
• Air guns
• Any other alternatives to live fire

Students must fire a semi-automatic pistol or revolver during the live fire portion of the course.

Course Duration and Content

The NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course, which serves as the minimum standard, is at least 8 hours long and includes both:

• Classroom instruction
• Range time - learning to shoot revolvers and semi-automatic pistols

Training Certificate

Upon successful completion of the course, the student receives a certificate and/or letter stating course completion. This certificate must be submitted as part of the pistol permit application.

There is no expiration date on NRA training certificates. C.G.S. § 29-28 states only that the applicant must successfully complete an approved course of training; it does not impose a time limit on the validity of the training certificate.

Approved Instructors

Training must be completed with a CT Approved Firearms Instructor. DESPP maintains and publishes a list of certified Connecticut firearms instructors through the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. Any questions regarding approved courses or instructors should be directed to the SLFU.

Additional Application Requirements Beyond Training

While not part of the training itself, applicants should be aware that the permit process also requires:

• Age requirement: Must be at least 21 years old
• Background investigation and criminal history check
• Fingerprint submission
• Photographs
• Proof of legal U.S. residency (birth certificate, U.S. passport, etc.)
• Suitability determination by the issuing authority

Fees

• $70.00 - Local authority (town) fee
• $16.50 - Federal fingerprint/background fee (some towns charge $12.50)
• $50.00 - State of CT fingerprint/background check fee
• $70.00 - State DESPP pistol permit fee
• Total permit cost: $70.00 (state permit fee as referenced in C.G.S. § 29-28)
• The permit is valid for five years

Processing Timeline

The issuing authority has 8 weeks (60 days) to review the application and approve or deny it, per C.G.S. § 29-28a.

Permit Process Overview

1. Complete the approved handgun safety course with live fire
2. Obtain application form (DPS-799-C) from local police department or first selectman
3. Submit completed application with course certificate, fingerprints, photographs, and required fees to local issuing authority
4. Await approval or denial (up to 8 weeks)
5. If approved, receive temporary local permit
6. Present temporary permit to DESPP for issuance of the state pistol permit
7. If denied, may appeal to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners per C.G.S. § 29-32b

Relevant Statutes

• C.G.S. § 29-28 - Permit for sale at retail of pistol or revolver; permit to carry pistol or revolver
• C.G.S. § 29-28a - Application for permit; notice of decision to applicant
• C.G.S. § 29-29 - Information concerning criminal records of applicants
• C.G.S. § 29-30 - Fees for pistol and revolver permits
• C.G.S. § 29-32 - Revocation of permit
• C.G.S. § 29-32b - Board of Firearms Permit Examiners; appeals
• C.G.S. § 29-35 - Carrying of pistol or revolver without permit prohibited

Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit Application Process

Overview

Connecticut uses a two-step permit process for carrying pistols and revolvers. Applicants must first obtain a local/temporary permit from their municipality, then convert it to a State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers through the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU). The process is governed primarily by C.G.S. §§ 29-28, 29-28a, and 29-29.

---

Step 1: Obtain a Local (Temporary) Permit

Where to Apply

• Residents: Apply at the police department or first selectman's office in the town where you reside.
• Non-residents: Apply directly to the Connecticut State Police, Special Licensing and Firearms Unit. Email requests to SLFU.OOS@ct.gov.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years old
• Must be a legal resident of the United States
• Must provide proof of legal presence in the U.S. (birth certificate, U.S. passport, or documentation issued by ICE)
• Legal alien residents must provide Alien Registration numbers and 90-day proof of residency
• Naturalized citizens must provide proof of citizenship

Disqualifying Factors (C.G.S. § 29-28)

Applicants are ineligible if they:

• Have been convicted of a felony at any time in any jurisdiction
• Have been convicted within the preceding 20 years of any of the following misdemeanors:
  1. Illegal possession of controlled or hallucinogenic substances (C.G.S. § 21a-279(c))
  2. Criminally negligent homicide (§ 53a-58)
  3. Assault in the third degree (§ 53a-61)
  4. Assault of a victim 60 or older in the third degree (§ 53a-61a)
  5. Threatening (§ 53a-62)
  6. Reckless endangerment in the first degree (§ 53a-63)
  7. Unlawful restraint in the second degree (§ 53a-96)
  8. Riot in the first degree (§ 53a-175)
  9. Riot in the second degree (§ 53a-176)
  10. Inciting to riot (§ 53a-178)
  11. Stalking in the second degree (§ 53a-181d)
• Were convicted as a delinquent for a serious juvenile offense (as defined in § 46b-120)
• Were discharged from custody within the preceding 20 years after being found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect (§ 53a-13)
• Were confined in a hospital for psychiatric disabilities within the preceding 12 months by order of a probate court (§ 17a-495)
• Were voluntarily admitted to a hospital for psychiatric disabilities on or after October 1, 2013, within the preceding 12 months by order of a probate court
• Are subject to a restraining or protective order involving the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force
• Are subject to a firearms seizure order pursuant to C.G.S. § 29-38c
• Are an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States
• Have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
• Have renounced United States citizenship
• Have been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions
• Are prohibited by federal law (18 U.S.C. § 922(g) or (n))

Required Training

• Must successfully complete a handgun safety course consisting of no less than the NRA Basic Pistol Course prior to submitting the application
• Live fire is required - computer-generated programs, dry-fire, simulated shooting tools, plastic bullets, air guns, or other alternatives are not acceptable
• Students must fire a semi-automatic pistol or revolver
• The NRA "Home Firearms Safety Course" and "First Steps Pistol Orientation Program" are NOT approved courses
• As of July 1, 2024, the NRA course certificate date must be within 2 years of the date of application submission (per City of Bridgeport notice citing statute)
• A list of CT-approved instructors is maintained by DESPP/SLFU

Application Documents Required

1. Completed and notarized Connecticut State Police Form DPS-799-C
2. Copy of valid state-issued photo identification (driver's license or ID card)
3. Copy of proof of legal presence in the U.S. (birth certificate, U.S. passport, or ICE documentation)
4. Documentation of successful completion of an approved firearms safety and use course
5. Copy of DD-214 if applicant has ever been a member of the Armed Forces and has been discharged
6. FBI Noncriminal Justice Applicant's Privacy Rights & Privacy Act Statement (signed and dated)
7. Fingerprints (processed through electronic fingerprinting vendor)

Fees for Local Permit

• $70.00 - Local authority application fee
• Fingerprinting fees - Vary by municipality; typically includes:
  • Approximately $75.00 for State of Connecticut processing
  • Approximately $13.25 for FBI processing
  • Some municipalities charge an additional local fingerprinting fee (e.g., $10-$30 depending on town)

Processing & Background Check

• Applicants must submit to a background investigation, criminal history check, and provide fingerprints and photographs
• DESPP will be notified by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) if the applicant has been confined in a hospital for psychiatric disabilities within the preceding 12 months
• The licensing statute contains a "suitability clause" which provides that the issuing authority may deny the application if it determines the applicant is not a suitable person to possess or carry a pistol or revolver (C.G.S. § 29-28(b))

Timeline

• The issuing authority has 8 weeks to review the application and approve or deny it (C.G.S. § 29-28a)
• Some municipalities may take 8-10 weeks in practice
• Applicants will be notified in writing of the decision

Applicant Rights (per Public Act 23-53, effective October 1, 2023)

• A right to request and obtain an application to apply for a permit
• A right to submit an application no more than one week after requesting to do so
• A right to be informed in writing of the result within eight (8) weeks of submission
• A right to file an appeal in the event of a denial
• A state and federal constitutional right to own, possess, and carry a firearm for protection of the individual's home or family as lawfully chosen

Denial & Appeals

• If denied, the applicant may appeal to the Board of Firearm Permit Examiners as provided in C.G.S. § 29-32b
• If the applicant fails to pick up the temporary permit within 60 days of the approval letter, or is denied, they may reapply 1 year from the date of the certified letter

---

Step 2: Obtain the State Permit

Timeline

• Once the temporary (local) permit is issued, the holder has 60 days to apply for the full State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers at a DESPP/SLFU office
• The temporary permit may not be renewed. If it expires before obtaining the state permit, the applicant must re-apply for a new temporary permit

Where to Apply

• DESPP-HQ is open for new pistol permit applicants - no appointments required
• Apply in person at a DESPP Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU) processing location

What to Bring

• Proof of citizenship or legal residence (e.g., birth certificate, passport, green card)
• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license)
• $70.00 - State permit fee (check, money order, or exact cash payable to "Treasurer State of Connecticut")
• Temporary permit issued by local jurisdiction

Instructions Form

• Form DPS-769-C provides detailed instructions for new and renewal state permit applicants

Permit Details

• The State Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers is valid for 5 years
• The temporary permit is valid for 60 days and allows lawful possession of a pistol/revolver in Connecticut but does NOT allow the holder to purchase firearms

---

Total Fee Summary

---

Non-Resident Applications

• Non-residents may apply for a non-resident Connecticut State Pistol Permit
• Non-residents apply directly to the Connecticut State Police, Special Licensing and Firearms Unit
• Email SLFU.OOS@ct.gov to request an application packet
• Call 860-685-8290 for a complete packet including fingerprint card
• The same form DPS-799-C is used for non-resident applications

---

Permit Renewals

• Permits expire after 5 years and must be renewed
• Renewal instructions are included in form DPS-769-C
• Renewals may be done in person or by mail (per DESPP instructions)

---

Key Statutory References

• C.G.S. § 29-28 - Permit to carry pistol or revolver; suitability clause; confidentiality
• C.G.S. § 29-28a - Application for permit; notice of decision to applicant (8-week deadline)
• C.G.S. § 29-29 - Information concerning criminal records of applicants
• C.G.S. § 29-30 - Fees for permits; expiration and renewal
• C.G.S. § 29-32 - Revocation of permit; notification; penalty for failure to surrender
• C.G.S. § 29-32b - Board of Firearms Permit Examiners; appeals; hearings
• C.G.S. § 29-35 - Carrying of pistol or revolver without permit prohibited; exceptions
• Public Act 23-53 - 2023 legislation affecting permit application rights and procedures

Connecticut Concealed Carry Permit Renewal Process

Overview

Connecticut state pistol permit holders must renew their permits periodically. The renewal process is administered by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU).

Key Statutes

• CGS § 29-28 - Permit for sale at retail of firearms; Permit to carry pistol or revolver; Confidentiality of name and address of permit holder; Permits for out-of-state residents
• CGS § 29-30 - Fees for permits for sale at retail of firearms and for carrying of pistols and revolvers; Expiration and renewal of permits
• CGS § 29-38b - Determination of commitment status of person who applies for or seeks renewal of firearm permit or certificate

Renewal Notification

• 90 days prior to the expiration of the permit, the issuing authority will mail a renewal letter to the permit holder's last known address.
• Permit holders are required by law to notify the issuing authority within 48 hours of any change of address.
• If the renewal letter is lost or not received, a replacement renewal application form can be obtained from the DESPP website (Form DPS-769-C).

Renewal Methods

Currently, permit renewals can be completed through two methods:

1. Mail-in Process - Instructions are available via Form DPS-769-C from the DESPP website.
2. Online Process - Renewals can be completed through the DESPP online portal.

Note: No in-person renewals are currently accepted.

Renewal Fee

• The cost of renewing a state pistol permit is $70.00.

Grace Period & Expiration

• State pistol permit holders are granted a 90-day grace period to renew their permit after expiration.
• Permits expired beyond 90 days will not be renewed. Holders whose permits lapse beyond the grace period would need to reapply as new applicants.

Renewal Forms

• DPS-769-C - Instructions to Applicant (for both new and renewal of pistol permits and certificates). This form covers:

  • New pistol permits
  • Renewal of pistol permits in person
  • Renewal of pistol permits by mail
  • Security officer pistol permits
  • Bail enforcement agent pistol permits
  • New and renewal of eligibility certificates for pistol or revolver
  • New and renewal of long gun eligibility certificates
  • New and renewal of ammunition certificates

• DPS-799-C - Eligibility Certificate / Temporary State Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers / Non-Resident Permit to Carry Pistols or Revolvers

Background Check at Renewal

Pursuant to CGS § 29-38b, the state conducts a determination of the commitment status of any person who applies for or seeks renewal of a firearm permit or certificate.

Eligibility Certificate Renewal

Separate from the pistol permit, eligibility certificates for pistols/revolvers and long guns also have renewal requirements governed by CGS § 29-36h (Fee for eligibility certificate; Expiration and renewal of eligibility certificate).

Revocation and Reinstatement

Under CGS § 29-32, permits may be revoked. However, the DESPP Commissioner must reinstate any gun or ammunition credential revoked as a result of a civil restraining order, civil protection order, or foreign order of protection upon verification of the order's expiration, provided the person is otherwise eligible for the credential. Credentials revoked based on an ex parte order must also be reinstated if the order expires and the respondent notifies DESPP and is not otherwise disqualified (CGS §§ 29-32, 29-37s, & 29-38p).

Appeals

If a renewal is denied, permit holders may appeal to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners pursuant to CGS § 29-32b. Further appeals may be taken to Superior Court under CGS § 4-183.

Contact Information

• Special Licensing and Firearms Unit: 860-685-8290
• Out-of-state residents: Email SLFU.OOS@ct.gov

Connecticut Concealed Carry Fees and Costs

Permit to Carry a Pistol or Revolver

Connecticut requires a state-issued permit to carry a pistol or revolver. The fee structure involves payments at both the local and state levels.

Local Authority Fees

• Local permit application fee: $70.00 paid to the town/local issuing authority
• Local fingerprinting fee: $10.00 (may vary by municipality; some towns charge $12.50)
• Payment is typically by money order or certified bank check (varies by municipality)

State Fees (Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection - DESPP)

• State fingerprint/background check fee: Approximately $75.00 to the State of Connecticut and $13.25 to the FBI (approximately $90.00 total as of May 2024), processed through the State website
• State pistol permit fee: $70.00 paid to DESPP when picking up the actual permit after receiving the temporary permit

Total Estimated Cost for Initial Permit

Approximately $230.00 or more in government fees (not including the required firearms safety course).

Permit Renewal Fees

• Permit fees for carrying pistols and revolvers are governed by CGS § 29-30
• The statute addresses fees for both initial issuance and renewal

Dealer's Permit (Retail Sale of Firearms)

• Fee to obtain or renew: $200 (CGS § 29-30(a), as amended by PA 23-53, § 6, PA 23-73, § 1, and PA 23-130, § 4)
• Validity period: Five years (in practice, though not specified by statute)

Eligibility Certificates

Handgun Eligibility Certificate

• Fee: $35 to obtain or renew (CGS § 29-36h)
• Validity: Five years

Long Gun Eligibility Certificate

• Fee: $35 to obtain or renew
• Validity: Five years

Ammunition Certificate

• Fee: $35 to obtain or renew (CGS § 29-38o(a))
• Validity: Five years
• Note: This fee is in addition to fees for the background check

Firearms Safety Course

• A state-approved firearms safety course is required before applying for a permit (CGS § 29-28)
• The NRA Basic Pistol Shooting Course (minimum 8 hours including classroom and range time) satisfies this requirement
• Course costs vary by provider (not a government fee)
• As of July 1, 2024, the NRA course certificate date must be within 2 years of the application submission date

Private Firearm Transfer Fees

• As of September 2023, all private firearm sales and transfers (including long guns) must be facilitated through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) due to a DESPP policy change at the FBI's direction
• The FFL may charge a fee for this service (amount not set by statute; varies by dealer)

Penalties and Fines (Selected)

Processing Timeline

• Connecticut statutes mandate that the local permit application process take no more than 60 days (CGS § 29-28a)
• In practice, processing may take 8-10 weeks depending on the municipality

Key Statutes

• CGS § 29-28 - Permit for sale at retail of firearms; permit to carry pistol or revolver
• CGS § 29-28a - Application for permit; notice of decision to applicant
• CGS § 29-30 - Fees for permits for sale at retail of firearms and for carrying of pistols and revolvers; expiration and renewal
• CGS § 29-35 - Carrying of pistol or revolver without permit prohibited
• CGS § 29-36f - Eligibility certificate for pistol or revolver
• CGS § 29-36h - Fee for eligibility certificate; expiration and renewal
• CGS § 29-37 - Penalties
• CGS § 29-38o - Ammunition certificate fee and validity

Connecticut Weapon Restrictions for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

Prohibited Weapons

Assault Weapons (CGS §§ 53-202a through 53-202k)

• General Prohibition: With minor exceptions, no one in Connecticut may give, distribute, transport, import, expose, keep, sell, or possess an assault weapon (CGS § 53-202b, § 53-202c).
• Definition: An "assault weapon" includes any selective-fire firearm capable of fully automatic, semiautomatic, or burst fire, plus numerous specifically named semiautomatic firearms listed in statute (CGS § 53-202a, as amended by PA 23-53, § 23).
• 2023 Expansion (PA 23-53): Effective June 6, 2023, the assault weapons ban was expanded to include additional firearms designated as "2023 assault weapons," which generally includes any semiautomatic firearm (other than a pistol, revolver, rifle, or shotgun) with features such as:
  • A grip or stock allowing the weapon to be held with more than just the trigger finger below the firing action
  • Ability to accept a detachable magazine outside the pistol grip
  • A fixed magazine accepting more than 10 rounds
  • A flash suppressor, silencer, or threaded barrel capable of accepting one
  • A barrel shroud (except a slide enclosing the barrel)
  • A second hand grip
  • An arm brace or stabilizing brace allowing shoulder firing
• Exception for Pre-Ban Owners: Individuals who lawfully possessed assault weapons before the applicable ban date and obtained a Certificate of Possession from DESPP may continue to possess them, subject to strict location and transportation restrictions (CGS § 53-202d).
• Penalties:
  • Possession without certificate: Class D felony with 1-year mandatory minimum prison term (Class A misdemeanor for first-time violators who prove pre-ban lawful possession) (CGS § 53-202c)
  • Sale/transfer/distribution: Class C felony with 2-year mandatory minimum prison term (CGS § 53-202b)

Registered Assault Weapon Restrictions (CGS § 53-202d)

Registered assault weapons may only be possessed:

1. At the owner's home, business, or owned/leased property
2. At a target range of a public or private target shooting club
3. At a licensed target shooting range or club
4. While attending approved firearms exhibitions, displays, or educational projects
5. While transporting between authorized locations or to a gun dealer for servicing

Transportation requirements: Assault weapons being transported must NOT be carried loaded and concealed, and must be unloaded and stored in the trunk or in an inaccessible case if in a motor vehicle (CGS § 53-202d(f)). Violation is a Class E felony.

Large Capacity Magazines (LCMs) (CGS § 53-202w, § 53-202x)

• Definition: Any firearm magazine, belt, drum, feed strip, or similar device that can hold more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
• General Prohibition: It is a Class D felony to keep, offer, sell, transfer, buy, distribute, or bring LCMs into Connecticut (CGS § 53-202w(b)).
• Possession of undeclared LCM: Class D felony if ineligible to possess firearms; Class A misdemeanor if eligible (CGS § 53-202w(c)).
• Declared LCM Restrictions: Those who lawfully declared LCMs (deadline was January 1, 2014) may possess them only:
  1. At their residence
  2. At their business or owned property (with no more than 10 rounds loaded)
  3. At authorized target ranges or shooting clubs
  4. While transporting between authorized locations (no more than 10 rounds, transported per assault weapon transport rules)
  5. Under a valid handgun permit in a handgun lawfully possessed before April 4, 2013, provided the LCM does not extend more than 1 inch below the pistol grip and contains no more than 10 rounds
• Violation of declared LCM possession restrictions: Class C misdemeanor (CGS § 53-202x(g)).
• New Residents: Non-servicemembers moving to CT with LCMs have 90 days to permanently disable, sell to a dealer, or remove from state (CGS § 53-202x(d)).

Machine Guns (CGS § 53-202)

• Must be registered with DESPP within 24 hours of acquisition and annually on July 1.
• Illegal to use for offensive or aggressive purposes.
• Cannot be transferred to anyone under age 16.
• Possession for offensive/aggressive purpose: 5-10 years imprisonment, up to $1,000 fine, or both.
• Possession while committing certain violent crimes: 10-20 years imprisonment.

Sawed-Off Shotguns and Silencers

• Owning, controlling, or possessing certain sawed-off shotguns or a silencer is a Class D felony (CGS § 53a-211).

Bump Stocks / Rate of Fire Enhancements (CGS § 53-206q, PA 18-29)

• Banned effective October 1, 2018. No person (other than a licensed firearms manufacturer fulfilling a military contract) may sell, transfer, purchase, possess, use, or manufacture any "rate of fire enhancement," including:
  • Bump stocks
  • Trigger cranks
  • Binary trigger systems
  • Any device causing a semiautomatic firearm to fire more than one round per trigger operation
• Penalty: Class D felony (Class D misdemeanor for first offense by holders of valid permits/certificates).

Armor-Piercing and Incendiary Ammunition (CGS § 53-202l)

• Prohibited to knowingly give, distribute, transport, import, or sell armor-piercing .50 caliber bullets or incendiary .50 caliber bullets.
• Knowingly transporting or carrying a firearm loaded with armor-piercing or incendiary .50 caliber ammunition: Class D felony.
• First violation of sale/transfer: Class A misdemeanor; subsequent violations: Class D felony.

Ghost Guns (CGS § 29-36a, §§ 53-206i & 53-206j)

• Prohibited to manufacture a firearm without obtaining and engraving a unique serial number from DESPP.
• Prohibited to possess a firearm without a serial number ("ghost gun").
• Prohibited to transfer ghost guns (except to law enforcement).
• Prohibited to purchase, sell, or transfer unfinished frames or lower receivers without identification marks.
• Penalties: Class C felony with 2-year mandatory minimum and $5,000 minimum fine for ineligible persons; Class C misdemeanor for eligible persons.

Prohibited Carry Locations

School Property (CGS § 53a-217b)

• Possession of a firearm on public or private school property, knowing one is not authorized, is a Class D felony.

Legislative Buildings (CGS § 2-1e)

• Carrying a dischargeable weapon in buildings where either chamber of the legislature is located or where a legislative committee holds a public hearing is a Class D felony.

State Parks and Forests (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c))

• DEEP regulations generally prohibit carrying firearms in state parks or forests.
• Exception: Carrying a handgun is permitted only for hunting small game or authorized activities (e.g., firearms ranges, hunter education classes) at predetermined times in designated areas.
• Handguns using centerfire ammunition are prohibited on state-owned land for hunting; only .22 caliber rimfire long rifle cartridges are permitted (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2).
• Penalty for violation: Infraction ($75 fine), possible 24-hour eviction, and potential 1-year ban from state parks (CGS § 23-4(a)).

Correctional Institutions (CGS § 53a-174, § 53a-174a)

• Carrying a firearm into a correctional institution without authorization: Class D felony.
• Knowingly possessing or carrying a firearm within a correctional institution while incarcerated: Class B felony.

Carrying Restrictions

Permit Required (CGS § 29-35, § 29-28)

• Carrying a handgun without a valid permit is a Class D felony with a 1-year mandatory minimum prison term (if without mitigating circumstances). The handgun must be forfeited.
• Knowingly carrying a firearm with intent to display it: Class B misdemeanor (first violation); Class A misdemeanor (subsequent violations) (CGS § 29-35(a)(2)).
• Failure to show handgun or permit to law enforcement under specified circumstances: Infraction ($35 fine) (CGS § 29-35(b)).

Loaded Firearms in Vehicles (CGS § 53-205)

• Possessing a loaded firearm (other than a handgun) in a vehicle or snowmobile: Class D misdemeanor.

Carrying While Intoxicated (CGS § 53-206d)

• Carrying a loaded firearm while intoxicated: Class B misdemeanor.

Handguns in Unattended Vehicles

• The law generally prohibits storing or keeping a handgun in an unattended motor vehicle unless it is in the trunk, a locked safe, or a locked glove box.

Firearm Storage Requirements (CGS § 29-37i)

• The law prohibits storing or keeping any firearm on premises under a person's control unless the person either keeps the firearm locked up or carries it on his or her person.

Ammunition Restrictions

Ammunition Purchase Requirements (CGS § 29-38m, § 29-38n, § 29-38o)

• Buyers must present a valid gun permit, gun dealer permit, eligibility certificate, or ammunition certificate (plus photo ID) to purchase ammunition.
• Ammunition certificate fee: $35, valid for 5 years.
• Sale of ammunition to anyone under age 18: Class D felony.
• Sale without valid credentials: Class D felony.

Persons Prohibited from Possessing Firearms

The following persons may not possess firearms or obtain permits/certificates:

• Persons convicted of a felony
• Persons convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence involving use or threatened use of physical force or a deadly weapon
• Persons under age 21 (for handguns/permits) or under age 18 (for long guns)
• Persons subject to a protective or restraining order
• Persons convicted in Connecticut of specified misdemeanors after October 1, 1994, including:
  • Illegal possession of narcotics (CGS § 21a-279(c))
  • Criminally negligent homicide (CGS § 53a-58)
  • Assault in the third degree (CGS § 53a-61)
  • Assault of a victim 60+ in the third degree (CGS § 53a-61a)
  • Threatening (CGS § 53a-62)
  • Reckless endangerment in the first degree (CGS § 53a-63)
  • Unlawful restraint in the second degree (CGS § 53a-96)
  • Riot in the first and second degree (CGS § 53a-175, § 53a-176)
  • Inciting to riot (CGS § 53a-178)
  • Stalking in the second degree (CGS § 53a-181d)
• Persons found not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect (discharged within preceding 20 years)
• Persons confined to a psychiatric hospital within the preceding 12 months by probate court order
• Persons subject to a firearms seizure order (CGS § 29-38c)
• Persons prohibited under 18 USC § 922(g) or (n)
• Aliens illegally or unlawfully in the United States
• Persons who have renounced U.S. citizenship
• Persons dishonorably discharged from the Armed Forces
• Persons adjudicated delinquent for a serious juvenile offense

Penalty Enhancements for Firearm-Related Crimes

• Assault weapon used in Class A, B, or C felony: Mandatory minimum 8-year additional consecutive sentence (CGS § 53-202j).
• Other firearm used in Class A, B, or C felony: Mandatory minimum 5-year additional consecutive sentence (CGS § 53-202k).

Stolen Firearms Reporting (CGS § 53-202g)

• Lost or stolen firearms must be reported to local police or state police within 72 hours of discovery.
• First failure to report: Infraction (up to $90 fine).
• Subsequent unintentional failure: Class D felony.
• Intentional failure: Class C felony.

Surrender of Firearms Upon Ineligibility (CGS § 29-36k)

• Persons who become ineligible to possess firearms must surrender ammunition and firearms to DESPP or transfer to an eligible person.
• Those ineligible due to restraining/protective orders may transfer only to licensed gun dealers.

Carrying a Firearm Under the Influence in Connecticut

Statutory Prohibition

Connecticut law explicitly prohibits carrying a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53-206d

Carrying of firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drug prohibited.

Under CGS § 53-206d, it is illegal to carry a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug.

Classification and Penalties

• Offense Classification: Class B Misdemeanor
• A Class B misdemeanor in Connecticut carries a potential penalty of up to 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Key Points for Permit Holders

• This prohibition applies to anyone carrying a firearm, including holders of a Connecticut Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers issued under CGS § 29-28.
• The statute covers being under the influence of intoxicating liquor (alcohol) or any drug - this is not limited to illegal drugs and may include prescription medications or other substances that cause impairment.
• A violation could also potentially serve as grounds for revocation of a pistol permit under CGS § 29-32, which authorizes permit revocation for cause.

Related Statutory Provisions

• CGS § 53a-7 - Addresses the effect of intoxication as it relates to criminal liability generally.
• CGS § 29-38c - Under Connecticut's Risk Protection Order ("red flag") law, alcohol abuse is one of the factors a judge may consider when determining whether a person poses an imminent risk of injury to themselves or others, which could lead to seizure of firearms.

Important Notes

• Connecticut does not specify a particular blood alcohol concentration (BAC) threshold in the statute for carrying a firearm under the influence, unlike some states. The standard is whether the person is "under the influence" of intoxicating liquor or drug.
• Permit holders should exercise extreme caution regarding the consumption of any alcohol or impairing substances while carrying a firearm.

Connecticut Firearm Storage Requirements

Safe Storage in a Home

Connecticut law prohibits anyone from storing or keeping any firearm on any premises under such person's control, unless the person:

1. Keeps the firearm locked up or in a location that a reasonable person considers to be secure, OR
2. Carries it on his or her person or close enough so that he or she can readily retrieve it and use the firearm as if such person carried it on his or her person

(CGS § 29-37i, as amended by PA 23-53, § 12)

Criminally Negligent Storage

If a person obtains an unlawfully stored firearm and uses it to injure or kill himself/herself or someone else, the weapon's owner is guilty of criminally negligent storage of a firearm, a class D felony, unless:

• The person obtained the firearm through unlawful entry, AND
• If the firearm is stolen, it is reported as such within 72 hours

(CGS § 53a-217a, as amended by PA 23-53, § 20)

Strict Liability for Failure to Securely Store

A person who fails to securely store a firearm is strictly liable for damages (regardless of intent) when a minor (person under age 18) or a resident of the premises who is ineligible to possess a firearm under state or federal law, or who poses a risk of imminent personal injury to himself/herself or others, obtains the firearm and causes injury or death.

(CGS § 52-571g)

Parental/Guardian Responsibility

Any parent or guardian of a minor who knows that the child possesses a firearm and fails to make reasonable efforts to stop it is guilty of a class A misdemeanor. If the child causes the injury or death of someone else with the firearm, the parent or guardian is guilty of a class D felony.

(CGS § 53-206f)

Safe Storage in a Motor Vehicle

The law generally prohibits storing or keeping a handgun in an unattended motor vehicle unless it is in:

• The trunk
• A locked safe
• A locked glove box

Penalties:

• First offense: Class A misdemeanor
• Subsequent offense: Class D felony

The court may, in some circumstances, suspend prosecution for a first minor violation.

(CGS § 29-38g(a)(1) & (d); CGS § 29-38g(c))

Definitions

• "Unattended" motor vehicle: No owner, operator, or passenger who is at least age 21 is either inside the vehicle or close enough to prevent unauthorized access.
• "Trunk": The fully enclosed and locked main storage or luggage compartment of a motor vehicle that is not accessible from the passenger compartment, OR a locked toolbox or utility kit attached to a pickup truck bed. It does not include:
  • The rear of a pickup truck (except as noted above)
  • The rear of a hatchback, station-wagon-type automobile, or sport utility vehicle
  • Any compartment that has a window

(CGS § 29-38g(a)(2))

Exemptions from Vehicle Storage Requirements

The vehicle storage requirements do not apply to handguns issued or possessed by:

1. Police departments, Department of Revenue Services, DCJ, DESPP, DOC, DMV, and DEEP
2. State or U.S. military or naval forces
3. Sworn members of a law enforcement unit (for official duties or off-duty)
4. DCJ inspectors or chief inspectors
5. Salaried motor vehicle inspectors designated by the DMV commissioner
6. Conservation or special conservation officers appointed by the DEEP commissioner
7. POST-certified constables appointed to perform criminal law enforcement duties
8. Nuclear facility security personnel licensed by the NRC

For all exemptions, the handgun must be kept or stored in accordance with the issuing or possessing entity's policy for safely keeping or storing a handgun in a motor vehicle.

(CGS § 29-38g(b))

Long Guns in Motor Vehicles

Long guns must be unloaded when being transported in a vehicle or snowmobile. A violation is a class D misdemeanor. Exceptions apply to members of the military while on duty or travelling to/from assignments, and to enforcement officers, security guards, or other people employed to protect property while performing their duties.

(CGS § 53-205, as amended by PA 23-53, § 34)

Locking Devices and Retail Sale Warnings

All firearms sold in Connecticut (other than at wholesale) must be equipped with a reusable locking device constructed of material sufficiently strong to prevent it from being easily disabled. The lock must have a mechanism accessible by key or by electronic or other mechanical accessory specific to the device to prevent unauthorized removal.

(CGS § 29-33(d), as amended by PA 23-53, § 9, and PA 23-130, §§ 5 & 6)

Gun dealers must provide firearm buyers with a reusable trigger lock, gun lock, or appropriate locking device at the time of sale, along with the following written warning in block letters at least one inch high, and post the warning conspicuously in block letters at least three inches high:

UNLAWFUL STORAGE OF A LOADED FIREARM MAY RESULT IN IMPRISONMENT OR FINE

Each violation by a dealer carries a fine of at least $500.

(CGS § 29-37b, as amended by PA 23-53, § 33)

Connecticut Transportation Laws for Firearms

Carrying a Pistol or Revolver - Permit Required

Under CGS § 29-35, carrying a pistol or revolver without a permit is prohibited, with limited exceptions. A valid Connecticut Permit to Carry Pistols and Revolvers (issued under CGS § 29-28) is required to lawfully carry a handgun.

Weapons in Vehicles (CGS § 29-38)

Connecticut law addresses the carrying of weapons in vehicles under CGS § 29-38. Persons transporting firearms in vehicles should be aware of specific requirements regarding how firearms must be stored during transport.

Interstate Transportation of Firearms Through Connecticut (CGS § 29-38d)

Connecticut has a specific statute, CGS § 29-38d, governing the interstate transportation of firearms through the state. This provision addresses the rights and requirements of persons lawfully transporting firearms through Connecticut who may not hold a Connecticut permit.

Transportation of Assault Weapons (CGS § 53-202d)

The law imposes strict requirements on transporting registered assault weapons between statutorily authorized locations:

• Prohibited: Carrying a registered assault weapon loaded and in a concealed manner during transport
• Prohibited: Knowingly having an assault weapon in any motor vehicle the person owns, operates, or occupies unless:
  • The weapon is unloaded, AND
  • The weapon is stored in the trunk or in a case or other container that is inaccessible to the driver and passengers
• Violation: Transporting an assault weapon in violation of these requirements is a class E felony

Registered assault weapons may only be transported between the following authorized locations:

1. The owner's home, business, or other property they own (or another's property with permission)
2. A target range of a public or private target shooting club
3. A licensed target shooting range or club
4. A firearms exhibition, display, or educational project sponsored or approved by a law enforcement agency or nationally/state-recognized entity
5. To a gun dealer for servicing or repair

Transportation of Large Capacity Magazines (LCMs) (CGS § 53-202x)

Declared (grandfathered) large capacity magazines may only be transported between authorized locations, and during transport:

• The LCM must contain no more than 10 bullets
• The LCM must be transported in compliance with the same rules that apply to transporting assault weapons (i.e., unloaded, in the trunk or in an inaccessible case/container)

Authorized locations for possession of declared LCMs include:

1. The owner's residence
2. The owner's business or other property they own (LCM must contain no more than 10 bullets)
3. A target range of a public or private club organized for target shooting
4. A licensed target shooting range or club
5. A licensed shooting club
6. While transporting between any of the above places or to a gun dealer
7. Under a valid handgun permit, provided the LCM: (a) is in a handgun lawfully possessed before April 4, 2013; (b) does not extend more than one inch below the bottom of the pistol grip; and (c) contains no more than 10 bullets

Violation of LCM possession/transportation restrictions is a class C misdemeanor (CGS § 53-202x(g)).

Nonresidents Moving to Connecticut with LCMs (CGS § 53-202x(d))

Anyone (except active-duty military servicemembers) who moves into Connecticut in lawful possession of an LCM has 90 days to either:

• Permanently disable it
• Sell it to a gun dealer
• Remove it from the state

Servicemembers transferred to Connecticut after January 1, 2024, may declare possession of LCMs to DESPP within 90 days of arrival.

Nonresident Transport of Assault Weapons (CGS § 53-202d(f)(7))

Under certain circumstances and with certain requirements, a nonresident who has a certificate of possession may transport certain assault weapons into and through Connecticut to:

1. Attend any exhibition, display, or educational project, or
2. Participate in a collegiate, Olympic, or target pistol shooting competition in Connecticut

Armor-Piercing and Incendiary Ammunition Transport (CGS § 53-202l)

• It is a class A misdemeanor (class D felony for subsequent violations) to knowingly transport or bring into the state any armor-piercing .50 caliber bullets or incendiary .50 caliber bullets
• It is a class D felony to knowingly transport or carry a firearm loaded with armor-piercing or incendiary .50 caliber bullets

Bringing LCMs Into Connecticut (CGS § 53-202w)

It is a class D felony to bring large capacity magazines into Connecticut, with limited exceptions for law enforcement, military, and certain manufacturers.

Firearms in State Parks and Forests

DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)) generally prohibit carrying firearms or other weapons in state parks or forests, with limited exceptions:

• Carrying a handgun for hunting small game at predetermined times in areas set aside and posted by DEEP
• Participating in other authorized activities (e.g., at a firearms range or during a hunter education class)
• A valid permit to carry (CGS § 29-28) is still required
• On state-owned land, handguns with ammunition larger than .22 caliber rimfire long rifle cartridges are prohibited (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(a))

Penalties for illegally carrying weapons in a state park or forest:

• Infraction with a fine of $75 (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(b)(1))
• DEEP may evict the violator for 24 hours (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(a)(1))
• DEEP may prohibit the violator from entering any state park for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a))

Carrying While Intoxicated (CGS § 53-206d)

Carrying a firearm while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs is prohibited and is a class B misdemeanor.

Federal Appalachian Trail Considerations

Federal law (16 U.S.C. § 1a-7b) allows lawful firearm possession on National Park Service-managed portions of the Appalachian Trail. However, state laws and DEEP regulations apply to portions of the trail that pass through state-owned parks and forests. Persons are responsible for knowing their location and which law applies.

Connecticut State Preemption of Firearm Laws

Connecticut does not have a comprehensive state preemption law that prevents municipalities from enacting their own firearm regulations. This is a significant consideration for concealed carry permit holders, as local ordinances may impose additional restrictions beyond state law.

Background on Preemption in Connecticut

The Connecticut General Assembly's Office of Legislative Research (OLR) published a backgrounder on this topic: "Firearm Preemption Issues: Does Connecticut Law Preempt Municipal Firearm Ordinances?" (Report 2011-R-0137). This report addresses the question of whether state law preempts local firearm ordinances.

Unlike many other states that have enacted explicit statutory preemption provisions preventing municipalities from passing firearm regulations stricter than state law, Connecticut has not enacted such a blanket preemption statute. This means that Connecticut municipalities may have the ability to enact local ordinances related to firearms, provided they do not directly conflict with state statutes.

Key Considerations for Concealed Carry Permit Holders

• Local Ordinances May Apply: Because Connecticut lacks comprehensive preemption, concealed carry permit holders should be aware that individual municipalities may have local firearms ordinances that impose additional restrictions.

• State Parks and Forests: DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)) prohibit, with exceptions, carrying firearms in state parks or forests. A person may only legally possess a handgun in a state park or forest when carrying it for hunting small game or participating in other authorized activities (such as at a firearms range or during a hunter education class), at predetermined times in areas set aside and posted by DEEP for such purposes (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(d)). Violations constitute an infraction with a total fine of $75, and DEEP may evict the violator for 24 hours or prohibit entry to any state park for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a)).

• State Permit Requirement: A valid state permit to carry a pistol or revolver is required under CGS § 29-28. This permit is issued at the state level, though the application process involves local authorities.

• Dealer Permits Involve Local Authority: Firearms dealer permits must be issued by the local police chief (or the municipality's chief executive officer or designated state trooper/state police officer), demonstrating that local authorities retain significant roles in firearms regulation (CGS § 29-28(a)).

Constitutional Provisions

• Connecticut Constitution, Article I, Section 15: Addresses the right to bear arms in Connecticut.
• U.S. Constitution, Second Amendment: Provides the federal constitutional framework for the right to keep and bear arms.

Practical Implications

Concealed carry permit holders in Connecticut should:

1. Research local ordinances in any municipality they plan to visit or travel through, as local regulations may differ.
2. Be aware of restrictions in state parks and forests, where carrying firearms is generally prohibited except for specific authorized activities.
3. Understand that the state permit to carry (CGS § 29-28) is required but may not override all local restrictions.
4. Stay informed about legislative changes, as Connecticut has been active in passing firearms legislation, including P.A. 23-53 (An Act Addressing Gun Violence), P.A. 21-67, P.A. 19-5, P.A. 18-29, and P.A. 13-3, among others.

Relevant Statutes and Regulations

Criminal Penalties Related to Red Flag Laws (Risk Protection Orders) in Connecticut

Connecticut's red flag law, codified primarily under CGS § 29-38c (as amended by PA 23-89, § 1; PA 24-24, §§ 11 & 12; PA 24-108, § 3; and PA 24-137, § 1), establishes a risk protection order (RPO) and risk warrant process. While the curated sources focus on the procedural framework of RPOs rather than enumerating specific criminal penalties for violations, the following enforcement-related information is available:

Risk Protection Orders (RPOs) - Enforcement Framework

• An RPO prohibits a person age 18 or older who is found to pose an imminent risk of injuring themselves or others from obtaining or possessing firearms, other deadly weapons, or ammunition.
• A risk warrant may be issued authorizing police to seize firearms, other deadly weapons, or ammunition from the subject of the order.
• The RPO and seizure remain in effect until the person successfully petitions the court to terminate the order and warrant.
• The person may petition to challenge the order and seizure starting 180 days after the initial hearing.
• A hearing must be held within 14 days after issuance of the RPO and warrant.

Minors (Under Age 18)

• Under CGS § 29-38q (PA 23-89, § 2), a separate risk warrant process applies to children under 18 who possess firearms or other deadly weapons and pose an imminent risk of injuring other people.
• This process includes risk warrants for seizure but does not include RPOs (as other laws already restrict firearm sales to minors).

Related Penalties - Carrying in State Parks or Forests

While not directly part of the red flag/ERPO framework, the sources note the following criminal penalties relevant to concealed carry permit holders:

• Illegally carrying weapons in a state park or forest in violation of Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c) constitutes an infraction with a total fine of $75 (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(b)(1)).
• DEEP may evict the violator from the property for 24 hours (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(a)(1)).
• DEEP may prohibit a violator from entering any state park for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a)).

Note

The provided sources detail the procedural aspects of Connecticut's red flag law but do not enumerate the specific criminal penalties (e.g., felony or misdemeanor classifications, imprisonment terms, or fine amounts) for violating an RPO. Violation of an RPO would likely implicate existing Connecticut statutes regarding unlawful possession of firearms, but the specific penalty provisions for RPO violations under § 29-38c should be consulted directly in the full statutory text for complete penalty information.

NFA Items in Connecticut

Machine Guns

Connecticut law defines a "machine gun" as any weapon, loaded or unloaded, that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot automatically more than one projectile by a single function of the trigger without manual reloading. This includes any part or combination of parts designed to assemble or convert a weapon into a machine gun (CGS § 53-202(a)).

Machine guns are regulated by both the U.S. Department of Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and the Connecticut State Police, Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU).

Key Restrictions

• Full-Auto Only: Connecticut residents may purchase machine guns only if they are capable of a "full automatic only" rate of fire. Any select-fire weapon is considered an "assault weapon" and is prohibited by state law.
• Registration Required: Anyone who owns a machine gun must register it with DESPP (Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection) within 24 hours of acquiring it and annually thereafter on July 1 using Form DPS-418-C (CGS § 53-202(g)).
• Offensive/Aggressive Use Prohibited: Using or possessing a machine gun for an offensive or aggressive purpose is punishable by 5 to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both (CGS § 53-202(c)).
• Use During Violent Crime: Using a machine gun while committing a specified violent crime is punishable by 10 to 20 years imprisonment (CGS § 53-202(b)).
• Transfer to Minors Prohibited: Transferring, selling, or giving machine guns to minors under age 16 - including temporary transfers for target shooting or any other purpose - is punishable by 5 to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, or both (CGS § 53-202(c)).

Presumption of Offensive/Aggressive Purpose

Offensive or aggressive purpose is presumed if empty or loaded projectiles are found in the machine gun's immediate vicinity, or if the machine gun:

1. Is located on premises not owned or rented as a bona fide business or permanent residence by the possessor
2. Is possessed or used by an unnaturalized foreign-born person
3. Is possessed or used by anyone convicted of certain violent crimes (e.g., murder, sexual assault, 1st- or 2nd-degree assault)
4. Has been adapted to use any caliber projectile and is unregistered (CGS § 53-202(d))

Manufacturer Requirements

Manufacturers must maintain a register of machine guns they manufacture or handle, including model, serial number, dates of transactions, and transferor/transferee information. Registers and stock must be available for law enforcement inspection. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 (CGS § 53-202(f)).

Exemptions

Machine gun restrictions do not apply to:

1. Manufacture of machine guns for sale or transfer to the U.S. government, states, territories, or political subdivisions
2. Possession of machine guns rendered inoperable by welding
3. Machine guns acquired, transferred, or possessed under the National Firearms Act (except the state registration requirement still applies) (CGS § 53-202(h))

Assault Weapons

Connecticut maintains an extensive ban on assault weapons. Select-fire weapons (capable of both semi-automatic and fully automatic fire) are classified as assault weapons and are prohibited under state law.

Assault weapons are banned both by name (extensive lists of specific rifles, pistols, and shotguns) and by feature-based tests. Possession of an assault weapon without a certificate of possession is a Class D felony with a one-year mandatory minimum prison term, except that a first violation may be a Class A misdemeanor if the person proves lawful possession before the relevant ban took effect (CGS § 53-202c, as amended by PA 23-53, § 24).

Silencers/Suppressors

Connecticut law references silencers in the context of prohibited assault weapon features. A semiautomatic pistol with a threaded barrel capable of accepting a silencer is classified as having an assault weapon feature (CGS § 53-202a). Connecticut effectively prohibits civilian possession of silencers.

Short-Barreled Rifles

A semiautomatic centerfire rifle shorter than 30 inches is classified as an assault weapon under Connecticut law and is prohibited (CGS § 53-202a, as amended by PA 23-53, § 23).

Large Capacity Magazines

Possession of an undeclared large capacity magazine is a Class D felony if the person is ineligible to possess a firearm, or a Class A misdemeanor if the person is eligible to possess a firearm (CGS § 53-202w(c) & (g), as amended by PA 23-53, §§ 18 & 27, PA 23-203, § 3, and PA 24-24, § 23).

Additional Resources for Connecticut Concealed Carry

Key Government Agencies & Contact Information

Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) - Special Licensing & Firearms Unit (SLFU)

• Address: 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, CT 06457
• Phone: (860) 685-8290 (general inquiries) / (860) 685-8494 (SLFU direct)
• Email: DESPP.SLFU@ct.gov
• State Pistol Permit Portal: https://portal.ct.gov/despp/division-of-state-police/special-licensing-and-firearms/state-pistol-permit
• Pistol Permit FAQ: https://portal.ct.gov/despp/division-of-state-police/special-licensing-and-firearms/faq---pistol-permits
• SLFU Main Page: https://portal.ct.gov/despp/slfu
• Online Address Change Portal: Available through the DESPP online portal for state pistol permit holders

Note: As of 08/01/2025, the Troop E pistol permit office (Montville) is closed until further notice. The HQ and Troop G locations remain open during advertised hours.

Board of Firearms Permit Examiners (BFPE)

• Address: State Office Building, 20 Trinity St., 5th Floor, Hartford, CT 06106
• Phone: (860) 256-2977
• Website: http://www.ct.gov/bfpe/site/default.asp
• Purpose: Reviews appeals from persons denied issuance of a pistol permit or whose permit has been revoked (established under CGS § 29-32b)
• Appeal Deadline: 90 days following refusal of issuance, revocation, or limitation of a permit
• Decision Timeline: Appellant notified in writing within 20 days of the board's majority vote decision
• Further Appeal: Decisions may be appealed under C.G.S. § 4-183

Key Connecticut Statutes - Chapter 529 (Division of State Police)

Other Relevant Statutes

Key Public Acts

• P.A. 23-53 - An Act Addressing Gun Violence (significant amendments to multiple firearm statutes)
• P.A. 21-67 - An Act Concerning Risk Protection Orders or Warrants and Disqualifiers for Firearm Permits and Eligibility Certificates
• P.A. 19-5 - An Act Concerning the Safe Storage of Firearms in the Home and Firearm Safety Programs in Public Schools
• P.A. 18-29 - An Act Concerning Bump Stocks and Other Means of Enhancing the Rate of Fire of a Firearm
• P.A. 13-3 - An Act Concerning Gun Violence Prevention and Children's Safety
• P.A. 13-220 - An Act Concerning Revisions to the Gun Violence Prevention and Children's Safety Act

Important Permit Holder Obligations

• Address Change Notification: Permit holders must notify the issuing authority within two (2) business days of any change of address (can be done online or by mail to SLFU)
• Carry Permit on Person: The permit must be carried on one's person when carrying the firearm (CGS § 29-35); failure to do so is an infraction with a $35 fine (CGS § 29-37(c))

Concealed vs. Open Carry

CGS § 29-35 does not specify whether a handgun must be carried openly or concealed. However, the Connecticut Appellate Court has recognized that open carry may subject a person to arrest under other statutes even if § 29-35 does not explicitly prohibit it (Peruta v. Commissioner of Public Safety, 128 Conn. App. 777, 794, 20 A.3d 691, cert. denied, 302 Conn. 919, 28 A.3d 339 (2011)).

Carrying in State Parks and Forests

DEEP regulations (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)) generally prohibit carrying firearms in state parks or forests, with limited exceptions for hunting small game and other authorized activities at predetermined times and designated areas. Violation is an infraction with a $75 fine, and DEEP may evict the violator for 24 hours or prohibit entry for up to one year after conviction (CGS § 23-4(a)).

Confidentiality of Permit Information

The name and address of anyone issued a gun permit, gun dealer's permit, or eligibility certificate are exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act. Disclosure is limited to: (1) law enforcement officials, (2) handgun transferors verifying permit validity, and (3) the DMHAS commissioner for specified statutory purposes (CGS § 29-28(d); CGS § 29-36g).

Research Resources

• Connecticut Judicial Branch Law Libraries - Firearms Law: https://www.jud.ct.gov/lawlib/law/firearms.htm
• Office of Legislative Research (OLR): www.cga.ct.gov/olr - Phone: (860) 240-8400 - Email: OLRequest@cga.ct.gov
• OLR Summary of State Gun Laws (2024): https://www.cga.ct.gov/2024/rpt/pdf/2024-R-0163.pdf
• OLR Report on Concealed vs. Open Carry: https://cga.ct.gov/2016/rpt/2016-R-0330.htm
• OLR Report on Carrying in State Parks/Forests (2020-R-0289): https://www.cga.ct.gov/2020/rpt/pdf/2020-R-0289.pdf
• Connecticut Constitution, Article I, Section 15 (right to bear arms)
• U.S. Constitution, Second Amendment
• Risk Protection Order Information: https://jud.ct.gov/Publications/JDPCL140.pdf
• DESPP Forms and Documents: https://portal.ct.gov/DESPP/Division-of-Emergency-Service-and-Public-Protection/Forms

Connecticut Concealed Carry Laws - Frequently Asked Questions

Permit Requirements

Connecticut requires a permit to carry a handgun. Under CGS § 29-28, a person must obtain a permit to legally carry a pistol or revolver.

The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU), administers the state pistol permit process. Common FAQ topics addressed by SLFU include:

• Applying for a pistol permit
• Getting licensed by SLFU
• Hearings with the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit

For detailed pistol permit FAQs, DESPP directs applicants to their official FAQ page at portal.ct.gov/despp/knowledge-base/articles/frequently-asked-questions/slfu/pistol-permit-faq.

---

Carrying Handguns in State Parks or Forests

Can a person legally carry a handgun in a state park or forest?

DEEP regulations generally prohibit hunting or carrying firearms or other weapons in a state park or forest (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-1(c)), with limited exceptions:

• A person may legally possess a handgun in a state park or forest only when carrying the handgun for hunting small game (e.g., rabbits, squirrels) or participating in other authorized activities, such as at a firearms range or during a hunter education class.
• This is permitted only at predetermined times in areas set aside by DEEP and posted for such purposes (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(d)).
• A person cannot use a handgun with centerfire ammunition to hunt on state-owned land. Handguns with ammunition larger than .22 caliber rimfire long rifle cartridges are also prohibited on state-owned lands (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 26-66-2(a)).
• A valid permit to carry a handgun is still required (CGS § 29-28).

Penalties for illegally carrying weapons in a state park or forest:

• Violation of § 23-4-1(c) constitutes an infraction (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(b)(1))
• Total fine: $75 (as set by the judges of the Connecticut Superior Court)
• DEEP may evict the violator from the property for 24 hours (Conn. Agencies Regs. § 23-4-5(a)(1))
• DEEP may prohibit a violator from entering any state park for up to one year after their conviction date (CGS § 23-4(a))

Appalachian Trail and Federal Lands:

• Federal law allows anyone who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws to possess firearms on parts of the Appalachian Trail managed by the National Park Service (16 U.S.C. § 1a-7b).
• State laws and regulations apply to parts of the Appalachian Trail that pass through state-owned parks and forests. A person cannot carry a handgun in these areas except as described above.
• A person is responsible for knowing their location and which law applies.

---

Assault Weapons and Large Capacity Magazines

Following PA 13-3 (Sandy Hook legislation), the following FAQs were addressed:

What can someone do if they possess a banned assault weapon they have not registered and/or a high capacity magazine they have not declared?

1. If the weapon is no longer located in the state, you are in compliance.
2. If the weapon has been sold to an authorized firearms dealer, you are in compliance.
3. If the weapon is still in your possession, you may:
   • Arrange to relinquish your assault weapon(s) and/or large capacity magazine(s) to a state police troop or police department having jurisdiction where you reside; or
   • Render the assault weapon(s) and/or large capacity magazine(s) permanently inoperable.

Will law enforcement be going door to door to confiscate unregistered assault weapons or undeclared magazines?

No, but just like any other item that is unlawful (i.e., contraband) to possess, if an individual is found to be in possession of an unregistered assault weapon or undeclared magazine, they are subject to arrest and prosecution.

May I use my assault weapon before it's been acknowledged?

Yes.

---

Important Disclaimer

The information provided should not be substituted for the State of Connecticut General Statutes. The full text of the Connecticut General Statutes should be consulted for authoritative legal guidance.

---

Key Statutes Referenced