Washington Statewide Rule

Washington Firearms Local Preemption Statute

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Washington (2026)

Key Facts

Rcw: RCW 9.41.290 is broad statewide firearms preemption
Only Washington Legislature: Only Washington legislature may regulate firearms
Local Registration And: Local registration and licensing schemes are void
Limited Exception For: Limited exception for discharge within city limits
Civil Liability Available: Civil liability available against violating jurisdictions

Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: Washington State Legislature

Summary

Washington RCW 9.41.290 broadly preempts local firearm regulation, reserving authority over firearm laws to the state legislature with very limited exceptions.

The state of Washington hereby fully occupies and preempts the entire field of firearms regulation within the boundaries of the state, including the registration, licensing, possession, purchase, sale, acquisition, transfer, discharge, and transportation of firearms, or any other element relating to firearms or parts thereof, including ammunition and reloader components. Cities, towns, and counties or other municipalities may enact only those laws and ordinances relating to firearms that are specifically authorized by state law, as in RCW 9.41.300, and are consistent with this chapter. Such local ordinances shall have the same penalty as provided for by state law. Local laws and ordinances that are inconsistent with, more restrictive than, or exceed the requirements of state law shall not be enacted and are preempted and repealed, regardless of the nature of the code, charter, or home rule status of such city, town, county, or municipality.

Source: Washington State LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under RCW 9.41.290, the state of Washington fully occupies and preempts the entire field of firearms regulation within state boundaries. Cities, counties, towns, and other municipalities may not enact or enforce laws related to firearms registration, licensing, possession, purchase, sale, transfer, transportation, ammunition, or component parts. Only the state legislature may regulate these matters, ensuring uniform firearm laws statewide. Limited exceptions allow local restrictions on discharge of firearms within municipal limits and possession in stadiums or convention centers. Local ordinances inconsistent with state law are void and unenforceable.

Violations & Penalties

Local ordinances violating preemption are unenforceable and may be challenged in court. Cities adopting invalid firearm laws face injunctions and civil liability under RCW 9.41.0975.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Washington city ban handgun possession in city parks?

No, RCW 9.41.290 preempts local firearm possession regulations. Cities cannot ban firearms in parks beyond what state law allows.

What firearm matters can localities regulate?

Localities may restrict firearm discharge inside city limits and possession in certain stadiums or convention centers, but little else.

Does preemption apply to charter cities?

Yes, RCW 9.41.290 applies to all Washington cities, counties, and municipalities regardless of charter status.

Sources

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