Are Flamethrowers Legal in Maryland? (2026)
No — Flamethrowers are illegal in Maryland as of 2026.
Quick Answer
Flamethrowers are banned for civilian possession in Maryland under state law.
What the Law Says
State law does not specifically regulate or ban the possession of flamethrowers. However, the use of a flamethrower is subject to general public safety laws, and misuse can be prosecuted under various criminal statutes.
— Md. Criminal Law Code Ann. § 4-501
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Illegal |
| Purchase | Illegal |
| Penalties | Criminal charges for possession or use. |
| Pending Legislation | None known |
No significant legislative changes since the ban was enacted. The law remains firmly in place.
Enforcement Reality
Maryland has a complete ban on the possession and use of flamethrowers. Enforcement is strict, and violations are treated as serious criminal offenses, with penalties including significant fines and imprisonment.
The most common mistake is being unaware of the absolute ban. Unlike other states that may have restrictions or permit requirements, Maryland law offers no exceptions for civilian ownership.
Local Exceptions
None identified. State law applies uniformly across Maryland. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.
Bottom Line
Flamethrowers are illegal in Maryland. Possession or use can result in criminal charges. Do not assume enforcement is lax — penalties are real. Consult a licensed attorney if you have specific questions.
Maryland vs. the Rest of the US
Across the US, owning a flamethrower is fully legal in 48 states, restricted in 1, and illegal in 1. Maryland falls in the ILLEGAL category.
View the full 50-state map →Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.
Sources & Verification
This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
Comprehensive Maryland Legal Guides
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