Gun Laws in Michigan
Explore our comprehensive guide on Michigan's gun laws, detailing regulations on firearm purchase, registration, and usage. Learn about permits, open carry, concealed carry, and more. Stay informed and ensure responsible gun ownership.
| Subject/Law | Long Guns | Hand Guns | Relevant Statutes | Notes |
|---|
| State permit required to purchase? | No | Yes | MCL § 28.422 | For handguns, a Handgun Purchase Permit (issued by the sheriff in the county of one's residence) or a Michigan-issued Concealed Pistol License is required for private purchases. |
| Firearm registration? | No | Yes | MCL § 28.432 | Some handgun sales are required to be registered to local law enforcement. There are several exceptions, including, but not limited to, police and United States citizens holding a concealed carry permit from another state. |
| Assault weapon law? | No | No | | |
| Magazine capacity restriction? | No | No | | |
| Owner license required? | No | No | | |
| Permit required for concealed carry? | N/A | Yes | MCL § 28.425b
MCL § 750.227 | Michigan is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older. |
| Permit required for open carry? | No | No | MCL § 750.227 | May carry openly without permit, except Concealed Pistol License required to carry in a vehicle. |
| Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law? | Yes | Yes | MCL § 780.951 | |
| State preemption of local restrictions? | Yes | Yes | MCL § 123.1102 | |
| NFA weapons restricted? | No | No | | |
| Peaceable Journey laws? | Yes | Yes | MCL § 750.231a | |
| Background checks required for private sales? | No | Yes | MCL § 28.422a | For all private handgun transfers, a Handgun Purchase Permit (issued by the sheriff in the county of one's residence) or a Michigan-issued Concealed Pistol License is required. |
| Duty to inform? | No | Yes | MCL § 28.425f | |
Understanding Gun Laws in Michigan
Gun laws can be complex and vary greatly from state to state. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of Michigan's gun laws, providing a comprehensive overview of the regulations surrounding the purchase, registration, and usage of firearms in the state.
State Permit Requirements
When it comes to purchasing firearms in Michigan, the laws differ depending on the type of gun. For long guns, there is no state permit required to purchase (MCL § 28.422). However, handguns are a different story. A Handgun Purchase Permit, issued by the sheriff in the county of one's residence, or a Michigan-issued Concealed Pistol License is required for private purchases of handguns.
Firearm Registration
Similar to the permit requirements, firearm registration in Michigan also varies based on the type of firearm. There is no requirement to register long guns, but handguns must be registered with local law enforcement (MCL § 28.432). Exceptions exist for certain individuals, including police officers and U.S. citizens holding a concealed carry permit from another state.
Assault Weapon Laws and Magazine Capacity Restrictions
Michigan does not have specific laws regarding assault weapons or magazine capacity restrictions for either long guns or handguns.
Owner License and Concealed Carry Permit
In Michigan, there is no requirement for an owner license for either long guns or handguns. However, a permit is required for concealed carry of handguns (MCL § 28.425b, MCL § 750.227). Michigan is a "shall issue" state for citizens and lawful permanent residents who are 21 years or older. This means that the state must issue a concealed carry permit to applicants who meet certain criteria.
Open Carry Permit
Michigan allows for the open carry of firearms without a permit. However, a Concealed Pistol License is required to carry a firearm in a vehicle (MCL § 750.227).
Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground Law
Michigan has a Castle Doctrine/Stand Your Ground law in place (MCL § 780.951). This law allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves in their homes, vehicles, or any other place they have a legal right to be.
State Preemption of Local Restrictions
Michigan law also includes a state preemption of local restrictions (MCL § 123.1102). This means that local governments cannot enact gun laws that are more restrictive than state law.
NFA Weapons Restrictions
There are no specific restrictions in Michigan on weapons covered by the National Firearms Act (NFA), which includes items like machine guns, suppressors, and short-barreled rifles and shotguns.
Peaceable Journey Laws
Michigan has Peaceable Journey laws in place (MCL § 750.231a). These laws protect individuals who are transporting firearms for lawful purposes.
Background Checks for Private Sales
While there is no requirement for background checks for private sales of long guns, background checks are required for private sales of handguns (MCL § 28.422a). This requires a Handgun Purchase Permit or a Michigan-issued Concealed Pistol License.
Duty to Inform
In Michigan, there is a duty to inform law enforcement that you are carrying a concealed handgun (MCL § 28.425f).
Understanding Michigan's gun laws is crucial for responsible gun ownership in the state. Always remember to follow these laws and regulations to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
