Restrictions on Firearm Possession in Chicago, IL

New Chicago Gun Laws

During the summer of 2010, Chicago gun laws, which have been in place for decades, were radically changed. Prior to the new gun laws, individuals in Chicago were not allowed to own or purchase firearms. Now, however, there are certain types of firearms that may be legally owned, although there are many restrictions about how they may be possessed. An individual must first have a Chicago Firearm Permit (CFP) in addition to a state-issued Firearm's Owners Identification Card (FOID).  

Violations of the gun laws can result in penalties such as 6 months in jail and $10,000 in fines. Failure to register a firearm is a separate offense for each day that it remains unregistered.

Chicago Firearm Possession Restrictions

• Within the city, firearms may not be possessed anywhere outside of the home. Yards, porches, and garages are all considered outside of the. Hotels, dorms, and group living facilities are similarly prohibited areas. Per state law, it is also unlawful to possess firearms at schools, public gatherings that charge admission, and at establishments that serve alcohol.
• An individual may not own an assault rifle, a machine gun, a rifle with a  barrel shorter than 16 inches, a shotgun with a  barrel less than 18 inches, and any firearm with a silencer.
• An individualmay not alter, remove, or destroy the serial number, brand, model, or other identifying factors of a firearm. It is similarly illegal for an individual to possess a firearm that has been defaced in such a manner.
• The individual may not possess a firearm with the intent to use it in an unlawful manner.
• If the individual is younger than 18, he or she may not possess a handgun or a concealed firearm.
• The individualmay not possess more than one firearm that is fully assembled and loaded. Other firearms must be unloaded and broken down.

Contact a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney at the Law Offices of Mitch Furman & Associates if you have been charged with a weapons violation. Schedule a free consultation to discuss the details of your case with a skilled and aggressive lawyer.