§ 5–203
Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.
Md. Code Ann., Pub. Safety § 5-203 (2026)
Title 5. Firearms
Subtitle 2. Rifles and Shotguns
§ 5–203LinkCopy Citation
(a)
A person may not possess a short–barreled rifle or short–barreled shotgun unless:
(1)
the person, while on official business is:
(i)
a member of the law enforcement personnel of the federal government, the State, or a political subdivision of the State;
(ii)
a member of the armed forces or the National Guard while on duty or traveling to or from duty;
(iii)
a member of the law enforcement personnel of another state or a political subdivision of another state, while temporarily in this State;
(iv)
a warden or correctional officer of a correctional facility in the State; or
(v)
a sheriff or a temporary or full–time deputy sheriff; or
(2)
the short–barreled shotgun or short–barreled rifle has been registered with the federal government in accordance with federal law.
(b)
In a prosecution under this section, the defendant has the burden of proving the lawful registration of the short-barreled shotgun or short-barreled rifle.
(c)
A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.