Connecticut General Statutes Section 29-28a establishes the procedural framework for pistol permit applications, including how applications are processed, the timeline for decisions, and the notice requirements when an application is denied.[1] This statute works in conjunction with CGS 29-28 and CGS 29-32b to create a system that includes both initial application processing and a formal appeals mechanism.
Application Submission and Processing
Applications for a temporary state permit must be submitted to the local issuing authority -- either the chief of police, the warden of the borough, the first selectman, or the chief of police of a law enforcement unit of a federally recognized Native American tribe within Connecticut's borders.[1] The local authority collects the application, supporting documents, fingerprints, photographs, and the applicable fee.
Eight-Week Decision Deadline
The local issuing authority must inform the applicant whether the temporary state permit application has been approved or denied within eight weeks of receiving a sufficient application.[1] This statutory deadline is intended to prevent indefinite processing delays. A copy of the application indicating approval or denial must also be forwarded to the Commissioner of DESPP.
Written Denial Notice
If an application is denied, the issuing authority must provide the applicant with a detailed written explanation of the reasons for the denial.[1] This requirement ensures that applicants understand the specific basis for the denial and can evaluate whether to pursue an appeal. Common grounds for denial include felony convictions, disqualifying misdemeanors, protective orders, mental health commitments, and adverse suitability determinations.
Failure to Act Within the Deadline
CGS 29-28a includes a safeguard against local authorities that fail to act on applications within the required timeframe. If the local authority has neither denied the application nor issued a temporary permit within the eight-week period, the applicant may submit an affidavit to the Commissioner of DESPP attesting to this failure. For applications filed on or after April 1, 2024, the applicant must wait at least 16 weeks after submission before filing the affidavit. The Commissioner must then accept the affidavit in lieu of a temporary permit and notify the local authority.[1]
Appeal to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners
An applicant whose permit is denied may appeal to the Board of Firearms Permit Examiners (BFPE) within 90 days of the denial.[2] The BFPE is a governor-appointed board established under CGS 29-32b that hears appeals of permit denials and revocations. The BFPE is a nine-member board: eight members appointed by the Governor from nominees of specified organizations, plus one retired Superior Court judge appointed by the Chief Court Administrator. At least one member appointed by the Governor must be an attorney and serves as chair.[3]
An appeal is deemed commenced when a written notice substantially conforming to the requirements of CGS 29-32b(b) is received by the Board. Applicants should be aware that, as of a November 2025 state audit, the BFPE had a backlog of approximately 1,200 pending cases, resulting in processing delays of approximately two years.[4] Critics have argued that these delays amount to "temporary denials" of Second Amendment rights.
Practical Implications
The procedural requirements of CGS 29-28a serve two purposes. First, they ensure transparency by requiring written explanations for denials. Second, they provide applicants with a formal avenue to challenge unfavorable decisions. However, the current BFPE backlog may significantly delay the resolution of appeals, and applicants should plan accordingly when considering the overall timeline for obtaining a Connecticut pistol permit.
See also: Appealing a Permit Denial Through the BFPE
See also: BFPE Backlog Crisis: 1,200 Cases and Two-Year Delays
Sources
[1] CGS 29-28a -- Application for permit; notice of decision (Justia)
Title 29, Chapter 529, 29-28a