Louisiana Statewide Rule

Louisiana Firearms Local Preemption Statute

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Louisiana (2026)

Key Facts

Codified La. R.s.: Codified at La. R.S. 40:1796
Applies All Parishes: Applies to all parishes and municipalities
Covers Sale, Possession,: Covers sale, possession, transport, and registration
Narrow Exceptions Discharge: Narrow exceptions for discharge regulation
Legal Reference: Local ordinances exceeding scope are void

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Louisiana State Legislature

Summary

Louisiana law preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearms, ammunition, and components to the state legislature with very narrow exceptions.

§1796. Preemption of state law A. No governing authority of a political subdivision shall enact or enforce any ordinance, order, regulation, policy, procedure, rule, or any other form of executive or legislative action more restrictive than state law concerning in any way the manufacture, sale, purchase, possession, carrying, storage, ownership, taxation, transfer, transportation, license, or registration of firearms, ammunition, components of firearms or ammunition, firearms accessories, knives, edged weapons, or any combination thereof.

Source: Louisiana State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under La. R.S. 40:1796, no governing authority of a political subdivision may enact any ordinance or regulation more restrictive than state law concerning the sale, purchase, transfer, ownership, possession, transportation, carrying, or registration of firearms, ammunition, or components. Limited exceptions allow regulation of firearm discharge inside municipalities and restrictions in specific public buildings. Local ordinances inconsistent with the statute are void.

Violations & Penalties

Local ordinances exceeding state authority are unenforceable and may be challenged in court; municipal officials face injunctive relief and potential civil liability for enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Louisiana city ban handguns?

No. La. R.S. 40:1796 preempts local handgun bans and any rule more restrictive than state firearms law.

Can cities still regulate firearm discharge?

Yes, municipalities retain authority to regulate discharge of firearms within their boundaries under narrow statutory carve-outs.

Sources

Source

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.