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Connecticut General Statutes § 29-36a – Manufacture of a Firearm Without a Serial Number
Connecticut’s ghost gun law has caught many gun owners by surprise. What may seem like a harmless home project—assembling a firearm in your basement—can now lead to serious criminal charges. If you are accused of manufacturing or possessing an unserialized firearm in Connecticut, you’re facing strict penalties, possible felony charges, and the permanent loss of your gun rights.
At Allan F. Friedman Criminal Lawyer, I have over 30 years of experience defending people charged with firearm offenses in Connecticut, including “ghost gun” cases. I know how to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Understanding C.G.S. § 29-36aConnecticut has strengthened its laws to crack down on so-called “ghost guns”—firearms manufactured without serial numbers. Under this statute, it is illegal to complete the manufacture of a firearm without first obtaining a unique serial number from the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) and properly engraving or affixing it to the weapon.
Lawmakers passed this law to increase traceability and prevent unregulated firearms from circulating. Unfortunately, many people are charged under this law simply because they didn’t understand the complex requirements or failed to register on time.
What the Law Says- You cannot manufacture a firearm in Connecticut without applying for and engraving a serial number issued by DESPP.
- Anyone who completes a firearm must notify DESPP and provide details about the weapon.
- Firearms made before the law took effect, or antique firearms, may be exempt.
- People moving into Connecticut with unserialized firearms must either register them, render them inoperable, sell them to a licensed dealer, or remove them from the state.
- Helping or assisting someone who is prohibited from owning firearms to build one is also a violation.
- Prohibited persons: Class C felony, up to 10 years in prison, fines up to $10,000. At least 2 years and $5,000 are mandatory unless the judge states otherwise. The firearm will be seized and forfeited.
- Illegal firearms (assault weapons, etc.): Class C felony with the same penalties as above.
- Otherwise eligible individuals who fail to comply: Class C misdemeanor, up to 3 months in jail, $500 fine.
Even misdemeanor convictions can have long-term consequences, including permanent loss of firearm rights.
Defenses to § 29-36a ChargesEach case is unique, but common defenses include:
- Exempt firearm: The firearm qualifies as an antique or was lawfully manufactured before the law applied.
- Compliance efforts: You applied for a serial number but were delayed by DESPP processing.
- Unlawful search or seizure: The firearm was found in violation of your constitutional rights.
- Lack of knowledge: You did not knowingly assemble or manufacture the firearm.
- Diversionary programs:
- Firearms Diversionary Program: For many first-time offenders. Completion leads to dismissal and erasure of charges.
- Accelerated Rehabilitation (AR): An alternative diversionary program providing court supervision and dismissal upon successful completion.
- C.G.S. § 29-35 – Carrying a pistol or revolver without a permit
- C.G.S. § 53a-202a – Criminal possession of an assault weapon
- C.G.S. § 53a-217 – Criminal possession of a firearm
- A hobbyist builds a handgun at home using an unfinished frame but never applies for a serial number.
- A Connecticut resident moves from another state with a self-made firearm and fails to register or dispose of it within 90 days.
- A person helps a friend—who is legally barred from owning guns—assemble a firearm in their basement.
- A permit holder is caught with an unserialized assault weapon in their collection.
1. Is it legal to build my own gun in Connecticut?
Yes, but you must first apply for and engrave a serial number from DESPP.
2. What happens if I already own an unserialized firearm?
You must register it, sell it to a licensed dealer, make it inoperable, or remove it from the state.
3. Are antique firearms exempt?
Yes. Antique firearms and certain older models are not covered by this statute.
4. What if I just moved into Connecticut?
You have 90 days to either register, sell, or remove any unserialized firearms you bring into the state.
5. What’s the difference between a felony and misdemeanor violation under this law?
Felony if you’re prohibited from owning guns or the firearm itself is banned (e.g., assault weapon). Misdemeanor if you’re otherwise eligible but failed to serialize.
6. Can I face charges if I only helped someone else build a gun?
Yes. Assisting another person, especially someone prohibited, is a violation.
7. What happens to the firearm itself?
It will be seized and forfeited to the state.
8. Can I get the case dismissed?
Yes. First-time offenders often qualify for diversionary programs like Firearms Diversion or AR, leading to dismissal.
9. Does this law apply to unfinished frames or receivers?
Yes. If converted into a functional firearm, it must have a serial number.
10. Should I talk to police if I’m being investigated?
No. Exercise your right to remain silent and speak to a lawyer first.
A charge under C.G.S. § 29-36a can destroy your reputation, freedom, and future gun rights. Don’t face it alone. Call Allan F. Friedman Criminal Lawyer at (203) 357-5555 for a free, confidential consultation. You can also complete our secure online contact form for immediate help. I’ve successfully defended firearm cases across Connecticut for over 30 years—let me fight for you.
