Mississippi has some of the most relaxed gun laws in the United States, allowing residents significant freedoms in owning, carrying, and using firearms. This guide covers Mississippi’s firearm purchase requirements, open and concealed carry laws, restricted locations, and self-defense protections, helping both residents and visitors stay compliant.

Mississippi Gun Laws Overview

Purchasing Firearms in Mississippi

Mississippi does not require permits or background checks for private firearm purchases, though federal background checks apply to purchases through licensed dealers.

Key Requirements:

Permit to Purchase: Mississippi does not require a permit to purchase handguns or long guns.
Background Check: Required only for firearms purchased from licensed dealers. Private sales do not mandate background checks.
Waiting Period: There is no waiting period for firearm purchases in Mississippi.
Minimum Age: Federal laws set the minimum age at 18 for long guns and 21 for handguns.

Private Sales and Background Checks

Private sales of firearms in Mississippi do not require a background check or additional regulation, allowing residents to legally transfer firearms without dealer involvement. However, buyers and sellers must ensure they are not transferring to someone prohibited under federal law.

Open Carry in Mississippi

Mississippi allows open carry of firearms without a permit. This extends to most public areas, making it easy for residents to openly carry firearms legally.

Key Points on Open Carry:

Permitless Open Carry: Open carry is permitted without a permit for individuals legally allowed to possess firearms.
Local Restrictions: Mississippi state law preempts most local regulations, limiting municipalities from imposing additional restrictions on open carry.
Vehicle Carry: Open carry is also allowed in vehicles without a permit.

Concealed Carry in Mississippi

Mississippi is a constitutional carry state, allowing residents 18 years or older to carry concealed firearms without a permit. However, residents may still obtain an enhanced or standard concealed carry license for reciprocity in other states.

Types of Concealed Carry Permits in Mississippi:

Standard Concealed Carry Permit: Available for those seeking to carry in certain restricted locations.
Enhanced Concealed Carry Permit: Allows carry in more restricted areas with additional training.

How to Obtain a Concealed Carry Permit:

Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 21 or older (or 18 for military) and legally eligible to possess a firearm.
Training: An eight-hour safety course is required for the enhanced permit.
Application Process: Submit applications through the Department of Public Safety, with fingerprinting and fees.
Renewal: Permits are valid for five years and must be renewed for continued use.

Reciprocity with Other States

Mississippi recognizes concealed carry permits from all states, and residents with permits have reciprocity with states honoring Mississippi permits. The enhanced concealed carry permit provides broader reciprocity for concealed carry across state lines.

Restricted Locations for Carrying Firearms in Mississippi

Mississippi restricts firearms in specific places, even for those with an enhanced carry permit.

Schools and University Campuses: Firearms are generally prohibited on school grounds unless otherwise authorized.
Government Buildings: Firearms are restricted in courthouses, police stations, and certain government buildings.
Private Property: Property owners can prohibit firearms on their premises, and posted signs must be respected.
Places of Worship: Churches and religious institutions may restrict firearms unless permission is granted by the organization.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Capacity in Mississippi

Mississippi does not restrict the ownership or use of assault weapons, nor does it impose magazine capacity limits. Residents are permitted to own and use a broad range of firearms without these limitations.

Self-Defense Laws in Mississippi: Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground

Mississippi upholds Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground laws, granting individuals the right to defend themselves with force, including deadly force, without a duty to retreat in certain situations.

Stand Your Ground

Under Mississippi’s Stand Your Ground law, individuals have the right to defend themselves without a duty to retreat if they are legally present and face an immediate threat of serious harm.

Castle Doctrine

Mississippi’s Castle Doctrine allows residents to defend themselves within their home, vehicle, or business without a duty to retreat if they believe they are under immediate threat.

Firearms Prohibited Persons in Mississippi

Certain individuals in Mississippi are restricted from possessing firearms due to federal and state restrictions.

Felony Convictions: Individuals convicted of a felony are generally prohibited from firearm possession.
Domestic Violence Convictions: Those with specific domestic violence convictions or restraining orders may not possess firearms.
Mental Health Restrictions: Individuals adjudicated as mentally unfit may face firearm restrictions.
Substance Abuse: Certain drug-related offenses may lead to prohibitions on firearm ownership.

Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Mississippi

Violating Mississippi’s firearm laws can result in serious penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and potential restrictions on firearm rights.

Unlawful Possession: Firearm possession by prohibited individuals can lead to criminal charges.
Carrying in Restricted Areas: Carrying in areas that restrict firearms, like certain government buildings, can result in penalties.
Noncompliance with Local Regulations: While Mississippi preempts local restrictions, failure to comply with statewide laws can lead to fines or more severe penalties.

Conclusion: Understanding Mississippi’s Gun Laws

Mississippi’s permissive gun laws make it easy for residents and visitors to own, carry, and use firearms with minimal restrictions. However, understanding state-specific laws around open carry, concealed carry, restricted areas, and self-defense rights is essential to remain compliant.

FAQs About Gun Laws in Mississippi

1. Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Mississippi?
No, Mississippi does not require a permit to purchase firearms.

2. Is open carry allowed without a permit in Mississippi?
Yes, open carry is legal without a permit.

3. Does Mississippi restrict magazine capacity?
No, Mississippi does not impose magazine capacity restrictions.

4. Does Mississippi recognize out-of-state concealed carry permits?
Yes, Mississippi recognizes all valid concealed carry permits from other states.

5. What self-defense laws apply in Mississippi?
Mississippi has Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine laws, allowing self-defense without a duty to retreat in certain situations.