Underage Gun Possession Laws in Arizona: What Parents Need to Know

In Arizona, gun laws address underage possession and use of firearms carefully. For parents, understanding the legal requirements and potential consequences of underage firearm possession is essential. This guide outlines key points about Arizona’s underage gun possession laws, including legal age requirements, exceptions for hunting and sport shooting, and potential legal consequences for parents.

Legal Age Requirements for Purchasing and Possessing Firearms in Arizona

Arizona follows federal guidelines on minimum age requirements for firearm purchases. According to 18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(1) of the Gun Control Act of 1968:

• Handguns: Individuals must be 21 or older to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer.
• Long Guns (Rifles and Shotguns): Individuals must be 18 or older to purchase rifles and shotguns from a licensed dealer.

See the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), History of Federal Firearms Laws in the US for more information.

Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 13-3102 also regulates underage possession of firearms. While federal law prohibits those under 18 from purchasing firearms, minors in Arizona may possess firearms under specific, limited circumstances:

• Hunting: (A.R.S.) § 13-3111 allows minors to use firearms for hunting if they have a valid hunting license and follow age-based supervision rules. Children under 14 must be supervised by an adult while hunting.
• Sport Shooting and Firearms Training: Arizona law permits minors to engage in supervised sport shooting activities and attend firearms training facilities under adult supervision.

Laws on Minors Using Firearms for Activities Like Hunting and Sport Shooting

Arizona law outlines conditions for minors using firearms in recreational contexts:

• Hunting: Minors over 14 with a valid hunting license may hunt independently; those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. The Arizona Game and Fish Department oversees hunting regulations, including firearm use.

See Arizona Game and Fish website for more information.

• Sport Shooting: Minors may participate in activities like target shooting at ranges, but they must be supervised by a responsible adult. Minors can also join organized youth shooting programs, which are regulated for safety.

Parents should be aware that while Arizona law allows minors to possess firearms in specific situations, strict safety guidelines apply. Arizona law expects parents to educate and supervise minors in these contexts.

Legal Consequences for Parents if a Minor Possesses a Gun Unlawfully

Arizona law enforces penalties if a minor unlawfully possesses a firearm, which can affect both the minor and their parents.

• Minors: A minor unlawfully possessing a firearm could face criminal charges under (A.R.S.) § 13-3102 (Misconduct involving weapons), leading to arrest or detention based on the offense’s circumstances.
• Parents: Parents may be criminally liable if they knowingly allow or facilitate a minor’s unlawful possession of a firearm. Under (A.R.S.) § 13-3102, it is a crime to knowingly permit a minor to possess a firearm illegally, potentially resulting in felony charges for the parent, including child endangerment or contributing to delinquency.

Additionally, Arizona law places responsibility on individuals for the outcomes of their actions. Under (A.R.S.) § 13-3111, parents or guardians can be held jointly liable for fines or damages if they knew, or should have known, about their minor’s unlawful firearm possession and did not take action to stop it. This means parents may face civil liability for any harm or property damage that results from the minor’s illegal use of a firearm.

Steps Parents Can Take to Prevent Underage Gun Possession Issues

Parents can take preventive steps to help ensure that their children are not involved in unlawful firearm possession:

• Secure Firearms: Arizona law requires that firearms be stored securely, especially when not used for lawful activities like hunting or sport shooting. Gun safes or other secure methods are recommended.

See Johns Hopkins, Safe and Secure Gun Storage for more information.

• Education: Parents should teach their children about gun safety and the legal consequences of unlawful possession. Taking gun safety courses can also be beneficial.

For youth education and classes see Arizona Game and Fish, Youth Programs

For adult education and classes visit the NRA, Firearm Training website

• Supervision: When children participate in firearm-related activities, parents should actively supervise to ensure all activities are lawful.
• Awareness of Legal Requirements: Keep updated on Arizona’s firearm laws, and ensure your child understands what they can and cannot do.

Conclusion

Arizona law provides clear guidelines for minors regarding firearm possession, but there are strict consequences for violations. While minors can legally possess firearms for activities like hunting and sport shooting under certain conditions, parents must be proactive in ensuring lawful possession. Proper storage, education, and supervision are essential to avoid serious legal consequences.

For more information on Arizona’s firearm laws, visit the Arizona Revised Statutes or consult with an experienced legal professional. At Chuck Franklin Law, we have over 37 years of experience defending clients in Arizona. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help protect your rights.

Disclaimer

This posted blog is in no way specific legal advice on any subject. It is intended to provide general information for the public.

If you need specific legal advice, call Chuck at 480-545-0700

Sources:

• Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S. § 13-3102): Misconduct involving weapons
• Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S. § 13-3111): Minors prohibited from carrying or possessing firearms
• United States Department of Justice (USDOJ), History of Federal Firearms Laws in the US
• Cornell Law School, Legal Information Institute, 18 U.S.C. § 922(b)(1)
• NRA, Adult Firearm Training
• Arizona Game and Fish regulations
• Arizona Game and Fish, Youth Programs