As a responsibly armed American, you already know how challenging it may be to stay up to date on changing gun laws…
Connecticut gun owners, you’re in luck. We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked firearms questions in your state. Read on for answers to some of the top questions regarding Connecticut gun laws. (Not from Connecticut? Check the Legal & Second Amendment tab for your state.)
Can You Carry a Gun in Your Car in Connecticut?
Yes, you can carry a gun in your car in Connecticut with a valid Connecticut Pistol Permit only. Otherwise, the weapon must be unloaded, and the firearm and ammunition must be stored in separate locked containers during transport. As of October 1, 2019, any pistol or revolver in an unattended motor vehicle must be in the trunk, a locked safe or glove box, or in a locked toolbox or utility box attached to the bed of a pickup truck.
Can I Buy a Gun Without a Permit in Connecticut? Is There a Waiting Period to Buy a Gun?
A gun buyer must have either a Connecticut Pistol Permit or a Certificate of Eligibility to purchase a pistol, revolver, long gun or ammunition. Applicants must complete an approved safety course, pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) background check and pass a mental health records check prior to issuance of a Certificate of Eligibility. There is no waiting period for firearm purchases.
Is Connecticut a Stand Your Ground State?
No. However, the Castle Doctrine is incorporated into Connecticut law governing the use of physical force in defense of premises. This law states that a person who possesses or controls a premise, or is licensed or privileged to be on such premises, is justified in using reasonable physical force upon another person when he or she reasonably believes it to be necessary to prevent or stop someone from criminally trespassing.
Deadly force is reasonable only (1) to defend oneself or another; (2) when one reasonably believes deadly force is necessary to prevent an attempt by the trespasser to commit arson or any violent crime; or (3) to the extent the person reasonably believes it is necessary and only to prevent or terminate an unlawful entry by force into his or her dwelling or place of work. Although there is no duty to retreat in a person’s home, there is a duty to retreat outside of one’s home.
What Guns Are Banned in Connecticut?
Connecticut has bans on defined “assault weapons,” which include any selective-fire firearm capable of fully automatic, semiautomatic or burst fire at the option of the user or any from a list of specified semiautomatic firearms. That is unless it was purchased before October 1, 1993, as well as a limited list of semiautomatic AR, AK and SKS variants.
Is Connecticut a Concealed Carry State?
Yes, Connecticut is a may-issue, with limited discretion, state. You can openly carry a gun in the state if you possess a Connecticut Pistol Permit (CTPP). The minimum age is 21. Connecticut doesn’t recognize permits or licenses from any other state. However, non-residents with a valid CCW license from their home state can apply for a CTPP. Some areas are off-limits, including schools and state parks.
How Much Is a Gun Permit in Connecticut? How Long Does It Take to Get a Gun Permit in Connecticut?
Connecticut has a two-step permitting process: a 60-day temporary permit issued by local authorities, followed by a 5-year regular permit issued by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP). Issuance of a temporary permit is technically not a prerequisite to apply for a regular permit, but in practice, an applicant must await a decision from local authorities on the temporary permit application before applying to DESPP for the regular permit.
This results in you paying a total of $140 ($70 temporary permit, $70 permanent permit and fingerprint and background check fees). The fee for permit renewals is $70. There is an additional fee for completing the prerequisite handgun safety course approved by the Commissioner of Emergency Services and Public Protection.
Can I Shoot on My Property in Connecticut?
Yes, there is no Connecticut statute that prohibits shooting on your private property. However, cities and towns may have ordinances which may prohibit discharge of firearms within the city or town limits.
Is Connecticut a Constitutional Carry State?
No, Connecticut does not allow constitutional or permitless carry. Connecticut is a may-issue state, and permits are issued based on a “suitability clause.” In reaction to NYSRPA v. Bruen, Governor Ned Lamont said, “This Supreme Court decision will not prevent Connecticut from enforcing its responsible gun ownership laws.”
Can You Openly Carry a Gun in Connecticut?
Yes. Open carry and concealed carry are legal in Connecticut with a Connecticut Pistol Permit. The minimum age is 21. Connecticut doesn’t recognize permits/licenses from any other states, but non-residents with a valid CCW license from their home state can apply for a CTPP.
Ready to Learn More About Connecticut Gun Laws?
It is your responsibility as a gun owner to know and understand the laws regarding your concealed carry rights. The USCCA’s Concealed Carry Reciprocity & Gun Laws Map has been designed to help inform and educate armed citizens like you. To learn more about Connecticut’s concealed carry permit application process, concealed carry restrictions and training requirements, visit the Connecticut gun laws page now…
The information contained on this website is provided as a service to USCCA, Inc. members and the concealed carry community, and does not constitute legal advice. Although we attempt to address all areas of concealed carry laws in all states, we make no claims, representations, warranties, promises or guarantees as to the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information disclosed. Legal advice must always be tailored to the individual facts and circumstances of each individual case. Laws are constantly changing, and as such, nothing contained on this website should be used as a substitute for the advice of a lawyer.
