Although pellet (also called airsoft) guns are typically used for sport target shooting rather than hunting, the state of Michigan regards all pellet guns and pistols as firearms. As such, pellet gun owners are subject to the same laws and regulations that apply to shotguns, rifles, automatic weapons and handguns. This includes laws regulating anyone who wishes to be licensed to carry a concealed firearm.
Pellet Guns in Schools
A student bringing a pellet gun onto school grounds must be expelled under Michigan law. The American Academy of Pediatrics stresses that "nonpowder" guns, which include BB guns, paintball guns and pellet guns, can cause serious injury and even death.
Concealed Carry Weapons Law
Michigan's Concealed Carry Weapons law (CCW) mandates that the holder must have a state-issued permit to carry any firearm, including a pellet gun or pistol, under 30 inches in length. To get this permit you must be over 21 years old and with no felonies on your record. Other requirements include a sound mental state, U.S. citizenship and Michigan residency.
Using and Transporting a Pellet Gun
Michigan law prohibits "discharging a firearm within a public right-of-way, in cemeteries, or on farm property without the consent of the farm's owner," according to Michigan in Brief, a Michigan Public Policy Initiative website. You may transport an unloaded pellet gun in your vehicle as long as it's for a lawful purpose and not accessible to vehicle occupants, and use it on your own property or business. While firearms are illegal on school property, a parent or guardian picking up or dropping off a child at school may have a pellet gun in the vehicle.
Where Pellet Guns Are Prohibited
Michigan law states that firearms are prohibited from schools or day care centers, sports arenas, casinos, any entertainment facility with a capacity over 2,500 people, establishments serving alcohol, airports, hospitals and courtrooms. They are prohibited in places of worship unless the presiding authorities have given permission.
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Writer Bio
Stevie Donald has been an online writer since 2004, producing articles for numerous websites and magazines. Her writing chops include three books on dog care and training, one of which won a prestigious national award in 2003. Donald has also been a painting contractor since 1979, painting interiors and exteriors.