Are Bump Stocks Legal in Pennsylvania?

LEGAL: Bump-fire stocks are legal to own in Pennsylvania under state law.

For Pennsylvania residents, the legal picture is straightforward — no state ban, and a clear federal ruling. This page covers the details and the one thing to double-check.

What the law says

There is no Pennsylvania statute banning bump-fire stocks. The device’s legality in Pennsylvania rests on the absence of a state prohibition plus the current federal status described below.

No Pennsylvania statute bans bump stocks. Federally legal since Garland v. Cargill (Supreme Court, June 2024). Some cities and counties enact local ordinances — check local law before purchasing.

The federal picture

In Garland v. Cargill (decided June 2024), the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the ATF rule that had reclassified bump stocks as machine guns. Since that ruling, bump stocks are legal under federal law. For Pennsylvania residents, the federal ruling plus the absence of a state ban means ownership is lawful — subject to the local-ordinance caveat below.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit to own a bump stock in Pennsylvania?

No state statute in Pennsylvania restricts bump-fire stocks, and no permit is required for the device itself. Standard firearm laws still apply to the rifle it attaches to.

Are bump stocks legal federally?

Yes. In Garland v. Cargill (June 2024), the Supreme Court struck down the ATF rule that had classified bump stocks as machine guns. There is currently no federal ban.

Can a city or county in Pennsylvania ban bump stocks anyway?

Possibly. Some municipalities around the country have enacted local device ordinances even where state law is silent. Check your city and county code before purchasing — it takes a few minutes and removes all doubt.