Washington NFA Laws
Washington State allows NFA item ownership but prohibits suppressor use while hunting under Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife regulations. SBRs, SBSs, and pre-1986 machine guns are legal for federally approved owners with no additional state restrictions. Washington has enacted some firearms safety and storage laws but has not restricted NFA ownership categories.
NFA item legality in Washington
- Suppressors: Legal
- Short-barreled rifles (SBRs): Legal
- Short-barreled shotguns (SBSs): Legal
- Machine guns (pre-1986 transferable): Legal
- Hunting with a suppressor: Not permitted
State requirements
- Suppressor use while hunting is prohibited under WDFW regulations.
- No additional state requirements for ownership beyond the federal NFA process.
Frequently asked questions
Are suppressors legal in Washington?
Yes. Suppressors are legal in Washington for residents who complete the federal NFA process (ATF Form 4, $200 tax stamp, background check). Note that hunting with a suppressor is not permitted.
Are short-barreled rifles (SBRs) legal in Washington?
Yes. Short-barreled rifles are legal in Washington for residents who complete the federal NFA process (ATF Form 4, $200 tax stamp, background check).
Are machine guns legal in Washington?
Transferable machine guns registered before May 19, 1986 are legal to own in Washington after ATF Form 4 approval. No new machine guns can be registered to civilians under federal law (the Hughes Amendment).
Do I need a state permit for NFA items in Washington?
No state-specific NFA permit is required in Washington; the standard federal process (ATF Form 4 or Form 1, fingerprints, background check, tax stamp) applies.
Last reviewed 2026-07-04. This is general information, not legal advice — verify with the ATF or a qualified attorney.
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