Arizona gun laws are meant to protect Second Amendment freedoms for law-abiding Americans, even out-of-staters. In most cases, the state rules will pre-empt any local gun regulations. The only local rules that can be made involve fees or deal with minors.
According to state statues, Arizona gun laws generally prevent cities and towns from making any gun ordinances. The code states that a political subdivision, which would include counties as well, cannot regulate the taxing, possession or sale, carrying, licensing, or regulation of firearms.
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Cities and towns also cannot require the licensing or registration of guns. This law also applies to ammunition and gun components.
A city, town, or county cannot even keep records that concern people who own guns or keep them stored in public places. That includes serial numbers on guns, fingerprints, or any other identifying information, unless there is reason to believe a crime is involved in the case.
Cities are also not allowed to limit hunting takes. However, there can be limits on where guns are fired.
Most cities in the state follow the regulations. For example, Phoenix keeps it simple on carry issues.
The city’s municipal code states, “No person shall carry any unauthorized firearms or explosives on the airport in violation of applicable local, state, or federal laws.” So, don’t break any statewide Arizona gun laws, and you are good in Phoenix.
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Cities are allowed to impose local taxes on gun and ammunition sales. They can also charge fees for background checks. Local cities and towns may also make laws that prohibit minors from hunting without parental supervision.
School districts are allowed to enact handgun laws that are more restrictive than Arizona gun laws. While some states make it a felony to carry a gun on school grounds, with or without a permit, Arizona gun laws are generally much more permissive.
According to the
Arizona Department of Public Safety, the concern mainly surrounds the alarm it might bring to others to see a gun on school grounds. So, as long as a handgun or any firearm is left unloaded in the car and locked out of view, like in the trunk, it is legal.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.
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