In 2026 Maryland allows civilians to own and possess tracer ammunition, but only under a narrow set of conditions. The state’s 2022 amendment to the Firearms Safety Act expressly permits tracer rounds for hunting and target shooting, provided they are transferred through a licensed dealer, never used in public places, and are not loaded in firearms classified as “dangerous weapons.” Violations can lead to misdemeanor charges and loss of firearm privileges. Understanding the specific statutes, retailer obligations, and usage limits is essential for anyone considering tracer ammo in the Old Line State.
Legal Framework
Maryland’s legislation governing ammunition is found primarily in Title 10, Subtitle C, § 10‑101. The 2022 amendment added subsection (d) that authorizes “tracer ammunition” for civilian use, aligning the state with the federal definition under 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3). The law excludes tracer rounds from “restricted ammunition” lists, which include armor‑piercing and incendiary types.
Key Restrictions
- Dealer Transfer – Tracer ammo must be sold by a firearms dealer holding a valid Maryland license.
- Location of Use – Discharging tracer rounds is prohibited in any public park, roadway, or municipal property. Private ranges may permit use if they adopt a written safety policy.
- Firearm Compatibility – The ammunition cannot be loaded into firearms categorized as “dangerous weapons,” such as automatic rifles or large‑caliber shotguns exceeding 12 gauge.
- Quantity Limits – Individuals may possess up to 500 rounds at a time; larger quantities require a special permit from the state police.
Purchasing Tracer Ammunition
Licensed dealers must maintain a record of each tracer ammo transaction, including buyer identification and the intended purpose (e.g., hunting, sport shooting). Buyers must present a valid Maryland firearm registration card and complete a background check. Online sales are permitted only if the seller is a Maryland‑licensed dealer and the ammunition is shipped to a verified dealer for in‑person pickup.
Enforcement and Penalties
The Maryland State Police’s Firearms Enforcement Division monitors compliance through routine inspections and random spot checks at shooting ranges. Possessing or using tracer ammo in violation of the statutes is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Repeated offenses may elevate the charge to a felony, resulting in revocation of firearm rights.
What types of tracer ammo are legal for civilians in Maryland?
Only standard tracer rounds that meet the federal definition—projectiles that contain a pyrotechnic composition for visual tracking—are legal. Incendiary or explosive tracer variants remain prohibited.
Can I use tracer ammo at a public shooting range in Maryland?
Public ranges operated by municipalities generally forbid tracer ammunition. Private ranges may allow it if they have an explicit written policy and enforce the state’s location restrictions.
Do I need a special permit to buy more than 500 tracer rounds?
Yes. Acquiring quantities above the 500‑round limit requires a special permit from the Maryland State Police, justified by a documented need such as competitive shooting or law‑enforcement training.
Is tracer ammunition considered “dangerous weapon” ammunition?
No. While the ammunition itself is not classified as dangerous, loading it into a firearm that the state defines as a dangerous weapon—such as an automatic rifle—remains illegal.
What are the consequences if I fire tracer ammo in a prohibited area?
Discharging tracer rounds in a prohibited location constitutes a Class C misdemeanor, exposing the shooter to up to 60 days of incarceration, a $1,000 fine, and possible suspension of firearm privileges. Repeated violations can lead to felony charges.