Delaware preempts local firearms regulation under 22 Del.C. 111, reserving most firearm laws to the state legislature with limited municipal exceptions for police, parks, and public buildings.
Title 22, Section 111 of the Delaware Code prohibits municipalities from enacting laws relating to the ownership, transfer, registration, or licensing of firearms or ammunition. The statute carves out narrow exceptions, allowing local governments to regulate police-related matters, the discharge of firearms within municipal limits, and possession in police stations or municipal buildings. Wilmington and other cities cannot impose stricter purchasing rules than state law. The General Assembly retains authority over background checks, age limits, and storage requirements statewide.
A municipal ordinance conflicting with state firearms law is unenforceable and may be invalidated through litigation by an affected gun owner or advocacy group.
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See how Newark's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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