NFA Laws by State 2026: SBRs, Suppressors & More

The National Firearms Act (NFA) regulates short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), any other weapons (AOWs), machine guns, silencers, and destructive devices. Until 2026, every one of these items needed federal registration and a tax stamp. Two changes in 2026 altered that for some items, as explained below. State laws did not change, and the legality of owning these items still varies significantly by state.

Understanding these regulations is essential for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in owning NFA-regulated items.

What Changed for NFA Items in 2026

Short answer: Since January 1, 2026, the federal tax on making or transferring a suppressor, SBR, SBS, or AOW is $0. Machine guns and destructive devices still carry the $200 tax. On August 5, 2026, a federal court in Texas also blocked NFA registration for suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs, but only for the people and businesses covered by that case. On October 9, 2026, ATF announced that it will no longer require approval or registration for SBRs, SBSs, suppressors, and AOWs. That is a non-enforcement policy, not a change in the law, and it can be reversed. State laws on NFA items did not change.

The $0 tax (effective January 1, 2026)

• The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21), signed July 4, 2025, cut the NFA making and transfer tax to $0 for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs. The Congressional Research Service summary of the NFA changes in Public Law 119-21 covers the details.
• Machine guns and destructive devices are unchanged and still carry the $200 tax.
• The law changed the tax only. ATF registration and the federal approval process stayed in place.

The August 2026 Texas court ruling

• On August 5, 2026, Judge Wesley Hendrix of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas ruled in Silencer Shop Foundation v. ATF (consolidated with Jensen v. ATF). The court held that NFA registration and approval for suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs lost its constitutional basis once their tax became $0.
• The injunction took effect when the court's stay expired on August 12, 2026.
• The law itself was not repealed. The court order covers the parties to the case and, where applicable, their members and customers. The NRA-ILA explainer on the Texas NFA decision lists who is covered.
• On October 9, 2026, ATF (Director Robert Cekada) published an open letter saying it will no longer require approval or registration for SBRs, SBSs, silencers, and AOWs, applied to anyone otherwise subject to these requirements. This is a non-enforcement policy, not a change in the law, and ATF can reverse it. The Silencer Shop NFA ruling FAQ explains how suppressor purchases work now.
• In a letter dated September 24 and filed in court on October 1, 2026, the Justice Department said it will not appeal.

What did not change

• State laws. Items a state bans stay banned there, and some states still require the federal NFA paperwork under their own law.
• Machine guns and destructive devices. The $200 tax and registration still apply.
• Interstate transport. Taking an SBR, SBS, machine gun, or destructive device across state lines still requires approval on Form 5320.20. Suppressors and AOWs need no transport approval.
• Background checks. Buying through a dealer still requires a Form 4473 and a NICS check.

This section reflects public information as of October 14, 2026. ATF's October 9 policy is not a change in the law and can be reversed, so confirm the current process with your dealer or an attorney before you buy.

Understanding NFA Firearms

Before delving into state-specific details, it’s crucial to define what qualifies as an NFA firearm:

• Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs): Rifles with a barrel length under 16 inches.
• Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs): Shotguns with a barrel length under 18 inches.
• Silencers/Suppressors: Devices designed to suppress the sound of firearm discharge.
• Machine Guns: Firearms capable of fully automatic fire.
• Destructive Devices: Explosive or incendiary devices, as well as certain large-caliber firearms.

Federal Regulation of NFA Items

Before 2026, federal law required the following for every NFA item. The 2026 changes above alter the tax for most items and, under ATF's October 9, 2026 policy, the registration steps for SBRs, SBSs, suppressors, and AOWs:

1. Registration with the ATF: Each NFA item must be registered through the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, except where the 2026 court ruling or ATF's October 9, 2026 policy applies.
2. Tax Stamp Purchase: Machine guns and destructive devices carry a $200 tax per item. Since January 1, 2026, the tax for suppressors, SBRs, SBSs, and AOWs is $0.
3. ATF Form 4 Submission: Transfers of NFA firearms require this form, except where the 2026 court ruling or ATF's October 9, 2026 policy applies. Some states still require it under state law.
4. Background Check: A comprehensive background check must be completed.
5. Interstate Transport: Taking a machine gun, SBR, SBS, or destructive device across state lines requires prior approval via ATF Form 5320.20. Suppressors and AOWs do not need this approval.

State-by-State Guide to NFA Firearms

Below is a detailed overview of how each state regulates NFA firearms, categorized by item type and including relevant notes.

Alabama

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: NFA items must comply with federal law. Local regulations may apply in certain municipalities.

Alaska

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Alaska is permissive, but local ordinances may impose specific restrictions. Federal compliance is required.

Arizona

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Arizona has favorable laws for NFA items, but they must still comply with federal requirements.

Arkansas

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Compliance with federal regulations is required, but state law is favorable to ownership of NFA items.

California

• Permitted: Certain AOWs, such as smoothbore pistols and firearms with a combination of a smoothbore and rifle barrel, are legal to own in California.
• Forbidden: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Caveat: California has highly restrictive firearm laws, and NFA items are generally prohibited. Some items, like suppressors or short-barreled rifles (SBRs), may be allowed in rare cases for law enforcement or specific individuals with permits.

            Conditions

• • Dangerous Weapons Permit: Possession of machine guns, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and destructive devices requires a "Dangerous Weapons Permit" issued by the California Department of Justice. However, these permits are rarely granted and are typically reserved for specific purposes, such as law enforcement or certain film industry applications.
  • Curios and Relics (C&R): Some NFA items, like certain short-barreled rifles and shotguns, may be obtained with a C&R Federal Firearms License (FFL) if they are designated as curios and relics.

Colorado

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Some cities or counties may impose regulations that limit where NFA items can be used or restrict certain types of firearms.

Connecticut

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Connecticut requires additional permits and may impose restrictions on certain NFA items, such as suppressors or short-barreled rifles, although ownership is permitted. Cities and towns may have ordinances regulating the carrying, use, and storage of firearms and NFA items, with additional requirements for registration or permits.

Conditions

• • Assault Weapons Provisions: Owners must comply with Connecticut's assault weapons provisions unless they obtained their items before October 1, 1993.
  • Machine Guns: Non-selective fire machine guns may be transferred to another resident within Connecticut. They are legal to own if purchased and registered with the state before January 1, 2014.

Delaware

• Permitted: SBRs and AOWs
• Forbidden: Machine Guns, Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs) Suppressors (Silencers), Destructive Devices (DDs)
• Caveat: Some municipalities, such as Wilmington, may have additional restrictions on NFA items.

Florida

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Florida generally supports NFA ownership, but local restrictions may apply. Some cities or counties may impose restrictions on NFA items such as suppressors or short-barreled rifles. While Florida law permits the ownership of suppressors, hunting with a suppressor is illegal.

Georgia

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Federal law governs NFA item ownership, and local municipalities may impose additional restrictions.

Hawaii

• Permitted: Destructive Devices (DDs) and Any Other Weapons (AOWs)
• Forbidden: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns
• Caveat: Hawaii has extremely restrictive laws on firearms and NFA items, with very few exceptions.

       Conditions

• • State and county law enforcement officers who are not convicted of an offense involving abuse of a family or household member under HRS §709-906 can own and possess silencers, machine guns, short-barreled shotguns (SBS), and short-barreled rifles (SBR).
  • All firearms in Hawaii must be registered with the county police department within five days of acquisition.

Idaho

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Idaho is permissive regarding NFA items, as long as federal regulations are adhered to.

Illinois

• Permitted: SBRs, Any Other Weapons, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: SBSs, Suppressors, Machine Guns
• Caveat: Illinois has strict gun laws and NFA items are allowed only with adherence to both state and federal laws. However, certain NFA items are harder to obtain due to state-specific regulations.

Conditions

• • Curio and Relics License: To own an SBR in Illinois, you must possess a Curio and Relics license.
  • State Approval: For AOWs and DDs, obtaining proper federal licensing is necessary, and state approval may be required.

Indiana

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Local municipalities may impose additional regulations, but state laws are generally favorable.

Iowa

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors 
• Forbidden: Machine Guns, Destructive Devices, Any Other Weapons
• Notes: Iowa law prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that regulate the ownership, possession, carrying, transfer, transportation, or modification of firearms, firearm attachments, or other weapons when such ownership, possession, carrying, transfer, transportation, or modification is otherwise lawful under state law.

Kansas

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Kansas generally supports NFA item ownership but requires compliance with federal regulations.

Kentucky

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Kentucky is very supportive of NFA ownership; local ordinances may affect certain counties.

Louisiana

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Must comply with both federal and state regulations, and local ordinances may impose restrictions.

Maine

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: State laws are generally favorable, but federal compliance is still mandatory.

Maryland

Most NFA firearms in Maryland are legal to own, provided they do not fall under the state's definition of an "assault weapon”.

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Maryland defines certain firearms as "assault weapons" based on features such as folding stocks, grenade/flare launchers, and flash suppressors. Possession of these firearms is illegal unless owned before October 1, 2013, or received through inheritance from a lawful possessor.
  • Registration Requirement: Machine guns must be registered with the Maryland State Police within 48 hours of taking possession. 

 

Massachusetts

• Permitted: Destructive Devices (DDs), SBSs, SBRs, Machine Guns
• Forbidden: Suppressors
• Caveat: Many NFA items require approval from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) before transfer.

        Conditions

• • Destructive Devices: While some are legal to own, others are banned at the state or local level.
  • Machine Guns: A machine gun license is required to possess a machine gun.
  • Suppressors: Massachusetts law only allows a few distinct groups, such as federally licensed manufacturers and police departments, to possess suppressors.

Michigan

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Michigan law allows NFA items with federal compliance; local ordinances may impose restrictions.

        Conditions

• • All guns shorter than 26 inches in the shortest usable condition (including SBS, SBR, AOW, handguns, firearms, and machine guns) must be registered as pistols with the police.

Minnesota

• Permitted: SBRs, Suppressors, Destructive Devices, and AOWs
• Forbidden: 
  • Machine Guns: Ownership is prohibited unless designated as Curios & Relics.
  • Short-Barreled Shotguns (SBSs): Prohibited, unless designated as Curios & Relics.
• Caveat: Federal compliance is required, but state law is generally favorable.

       Conditions

• • Curios & Relics Designation: Machine guns and short-barreled shotguns are prohibited unless they are designated as Curios & Relics by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
  • Destructive Devices: Some destructive devices are prohibited under state law.

Mississippi

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Mississippi is permissive with NFA items as long as they comply with federal regulations.

Missouri

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Missouri is supportive of NFA item ownership with compliance to both federal and state laws.

Montana

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Montana is permissive and has a favorable stance toward NFA ownership; local laws may vary.

Nebraska

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Compliance with federal law is required, but state law generally supports NFA item ownership.

Nevada

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Nevada is permissive regarding NFA items, though local ordinances may impose restrictions. Urban areas like Las Vegas may impose additional restrictions on where or how NFA items can be used or stored.

New Hampshire

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: New Hampshire generally allows NFA items with compliance to federal regulations and may have minor local restrictions.

New Jersey

• Permitted: 
  • Machine Guns: Ownership is technically legal but requires registration with the state police and a permit granted by the state. These permits are rarely granted to civilians.
  • Any Other Weapons (AOWs)
• Forbidden: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Destructive Devices
• Caveat: New Jersey has highly restrictive firearm laws, and NFA items are generally prohibited. There are very limited exceptions, primarily for law enforcement or specific registered firearms.

New Mexico

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: New Mexico is generally permissive with NFA items as long as federal and state laws are adhered to.

New York

• Permitted: 
  • Destructive Devices (DDs): Ownership is permitted, with the exception of rockets containing more than 3 ounces of propellant, which are prohibited.
  • Any Other Weapons (AOWs): Ownership is legal; however, AOWs must be registered on a pistol permit. Additionally, AOWs disguised as non-firearms are illegal. 
• Forbidden: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns
• Caveat: New York has highly restrictive firearm laws. NFA items are generally prohibited except for specific cases involving law enforcement or historical relics.

 

North Carolina

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: North Carolina allows NFA items with federal compliance. Local restrictions may apply in certain municipalities.

North Dakota

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: NFA items are allowed with compliance to both state and federal regulations. The state is generally permissive.

Ohio

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Ohio permits NFA items as long as they comply with federal laws, though some local ordinances may impose restrictions.

Oklahoma

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Oklahoma supports NFA ownership, but federal compliance is required, and some local laws may apply.

Oregon

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Oregon is permissive regarding NFA items, but there are some local ordinances that may impose additional regulations.

Pennsylvania

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: NFA items are allowed with federal compliance, and while state laws are generally favorable, some local regulations may affect ownership.

       Conditions

• • Machine guns must be registered with the state police within 48 hours of taking possession.
  • Short-Barreled Rifles (SBRs): Ownership is legal, but the overall length must be greater than 29 inches unless the SBR was possessed and made before October 1, 2013.

Rhode Island

• Permitted: None
• Forbidden: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Caveat: Rhode Island has restrictive firearm laws with a near-total prohibition on NFA items. Ownership is allowed only under very specific conditions, such as law enforcement exceptions.

South Carolina

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: South Carolina supports NFA item ownership, but local laws may impose specific regulations.

South Dakota

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: South Dakota has favorable laws for NFA items, and ownership must comply with both state and federal laws.

Tennessee

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Tennessee generally allows NFA items with compliance to federal law and local regulations.

Texas

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Texas is permissive toward NFA items, and there are no major state-level restrictions. Local ordinances may impose limitations.

Utah

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Utah allows NFA items with federal compliance, and while state law is supportive, some local restrictions may apply.

Vermont

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Vermont is generally permissive regarding NFA items, and there are no significant state-level restrictions beyond federal requirements.
  • Suppressors: Legal to possess and use for target shooting, home defense, hunting, or any other legal use.
  • Short-Barreled Rifles and Shotguns: Legal to possess and use if registered properly with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
  • Machine Guns: Legal to possess and use if registered properly with the ATF. 

Virginia

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: Virginia allows ownership of NFA items with compliance to both federal and state regulations. Local jurisdictions, particularly in larger cities, may require additional permits or impose restrictions on where NFA items can be used.

       Conditions

• • Fully-automatic firearms (machine guns) must be registered with the state police. Plastic firearms and certain destructive devices, such as the Striker 12 shotgun, are prohibited outside law enforcement.

Washington

• Permitted: SBRs, when possessed in compliance with federal law; suppressors, only if legally registered and possessed in accordance with federal law
• Forbidden: Machine guns and SBSs (a class C felony)

       Conditions

• • Machine guns and short-barreled shotguns are not permitted for private owners under Washington law (RCW 9.41.190). The affirmative defense for private owners is that the item was acquired before July 1, 1994 and is possessed in compliance with federal law. RCW 9.41.190(3) also has limited exceptions for official duties and for qualifying licensed manufacture, testing, and export activity.
  • Short-barreled rifles are lawful when the person is in compliance with applicable federal law (RCW 9.41.190).
  • Using a suppressor is lawful only if the suppressor is legally registered and possessed in accordance with federal law (RCW 9.41.250).
  • Destructive devices are not addressed in RCW 9.41.190. Explosive devices are licensed under the Explosives Act, chapter 70.74 RCW.

West Virginia

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Caveat: West Virginia supports NFA ownership with compliance to federal and state regulations, and local laws may apply.

Wisconsin

• Permitted: SBRs, SBSs, and suppressors, for owners who have complied with federal law
• Restricted: Machine guns (see conditions)
• Conditions: Wisconsin ties legality to federal compliance.
  • Short-Barreled Rifles and Shotguns: The state ban does not apply to anyone who has complied with the federal NFA licensing and registration requirements, or to any firearm that may be lawfully possessed under federal law (Wis. Stat. 941.28).
  • Suppressors: Legal to possess for individuals who have complied with federal licensing and registration requirements under 26 USC 5801 to 5872 (Wis. Stat. 941.298).
  • Machine Guns: Banned under Wis. Stat. 941.26, with exceptions for persons duly authorized by the chief of police of any city or the sheriff of any county, restoration of curios and relics (C&R), scientific purposes, a machine gun that is a curiosity not usable as a weapon, and a machine gun not adapted to use pistol cartridges that is possessed for a purpose manifestly not aggressive or offensive.
  • Destructive Devices: See Wis. Stat. 941.31.

Wyoming

• Permitted: SBSs, SBRs, Suppressors, Machine Guns, Destructive Devices
• Forbidden: None
• Conditions: Wyoming is generally favorable toward NFA items, as long as they comply with federal law. There are few local restrictions, i.e., 
  • Suppressors: While legal to own and use, using a suppressor to hunt big or trophy game is prohibited. Additionally, using a suppressor while committing other game or hunting violations incurs additional charges.
  • Machine Guns: Hunting with a machine gun or fully automatic weapon is prohibited.

Important Considerations for NFA Firearms Ownership

1. Know Your Local Laws: Each state has unique regulations. Research and consult legal resources or professionals.
2. Federal Compliance: Even in permissive states, federal laws and ATF procedures must be followed.
3. Transporting NFA Items: When traveling with NFA firearms, always ensure compliance with state and federal transportation laws.
4. Trusts and Corporations: NFA items can be registered under a trust or corporation to simplify ownership and transfer processes.

Resources for NFA Firearms Owners

• ATF’s NFA Handbook: Comprehensive guidance on compliance.
• State-Specific Firearm Associations: Local organizations often provide updates on changing laws.
• Legal Counsel: Consult a firearm attorney to ensure full compliance.

 

The Bottom Line

Understanding the legality of National Firearms Act (NFA) items across different states is crucial for responsible firearm ownership. While federal law sets the baseline, individual states have the authority to impose additional regulations or restrictions. Some states permit the ownership of all NFA items, including machine guns, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), short-barreled shotguns (SBSs), suppressors, and destructive devices, provided they comply with federal requirements, which changed in 2026 as described above. Conversely, other states may prohibit certain NFA items entirely or impose stringent conditions on their ownership.

For instance, in California, while some NFA items like suppressors and SBRs may be obtained with a "Dangerous Weapons Permit," such permits are rarely granted. Additionally, certain destructive devices (DDs) and SBRs/SBSs on the Curios and Relics (C&R) list may be obtained with a C&R Federal Firearms License (FFL).

In contrast, states like Colorado and Louisiana have more permissive laws, allowing the ownership of all NFA items without additional state-level restrictions.

Given the complexity and variability of state laws regarding NFA items, it's imperative for firearm owners to thoroughly research and understand both federal and state regulations before acquiring such items. Consulting with legal experts or local law enforcement can provide clarity and ensure compliance with all applicable laws.

By staying informed and adhering to legal requirements, responsible firearm owners can enjoy their collections while upholding public safety and the rule of law.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is accurate as of the date of publishing. Please note that firearm laws and regulations are subject to change. We recommend consulting with local authorities or legal experts for the most current information. Cedar Mill Fine Firearms is not liable for any inaccuracies or legal issues arising from outdated information.