What Is a Ghost Gun?
A "ghost gun" is an unserialized firearm -- a firearm that lacks a manufacturer-engraved serial number. These include firearms assembled from parts kits, 3D-printed firearms, and firearms built from unfinished frames or receivers (commonly known as "80% lowers"). Connecticut law applies to any firearm manufactured after December 16, 1968, that does not have a serial number.[1]
Connecticut's Ghost Gun Ban
Connecticut first banned unregistered ghost guns in 2019. HB 6667, signed in June 2023, significantly expanded the prohibition by closing a loophole that had exempted ghost guns assembled before the 2019 ban took effect. Under the current law, all unserialized post-1968 firearms must either be declared to DESPP or have a serial number obtained through DESPP.[2]
Registration and Serialization Options
If you possess an unserialized firearm in Connecticut, you have the following options to come into compliance:
- Declare to DESPP: Contact the Special Licensing and Firearms Unit (SLFU) to declare possession of the ghost gun. DESPP will maintain a record of the declaration.
- Obtain a serial number: Apply to DESPP for a unique serial number or identification mark, then permanently engrave or affix it to the firearm.
- Render inoperable: Permanently disable the firearm so it can no longer function.
- Sell to a licensed dealer: Transfer the firearm to a federally licensed gun dealer.
- Remove from the state: Take the firearm out of Connecticut.
Persons who move into Connecticut with a lawfully possessed ghost gun have 90 days to choose one of these options.[1]
Registration Deadlines
The deadline for registering pre-existing ghost guns was January 1, 2024. Military or Armed Forces members who were on official duty outside Connecticut at the deadline have 90 days after returning to the state to apply.[3]
Confidentiality
The name and address of a person who declares possession of a ghost gun is confidential and generally may not be disclosed. Records may be shared with law enforcement agencies, U.S. Probation Office employees, Department of Correction parole officers, and the Commissioner of Mental Health and Addiction Services.[1]
Manufacturing Restrictions
Under CGS 29-36a, it is illegal to manufacture a firearm without engraving a serial number on it. This prohibition applies to anyone who builds a firearm from parts, whether from a kit, a 3D printer, or raw materials. Unfinished frames and receivers that have reached a stage where they can readily be completed are treated as firearms for purposes of the serialization requirement.[4]
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Possession of an unserialized ghost gun carries different penalties depending on the person's eligibility status: