Is it illegal to own a tank?
Generally legal for civilians to own if weapons are demilitarized and paperwork is filed.
Owning a tank in the United States is legal for civilians, provided that the primary weapon systems have been permanently deactivated. If the main cannon or machine guns remain functional, they are classified as 'Destructive Devices' and require rigorous federal registration and tax stamps under the National Firearms Act. Most modern tank ownership also requires specialized transport permits due to the immense weight and potential for damaging public infrastructure. Consequently, while the vehicle itself is a legal private asset, operational weaponry and street usage are strictly regulated.
RELEVANT LAWS
- 26 U.S.C. Chapter 53 (National Firearms Act)Regulates functional cannons as Destructive Devices.
- 27 CFR Part 447Controls the importation of surplus military equipment.
- DOT Regulation 49 CFR Part 390Governs the transport of heavy machinery on public roads.
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
- Up to 10 years in federal prison for possessing an unregistered, functional Destructive Device.
- Fines of up to $250,000 for NFA violations.
- Criminal charges for damaging public roads or bridges with overweight treaded vehicles.
- Seizure and forfeiture of the vehicle by the ATF for compliance failures.
JURISDICTION
While federal law allows ownership, some states like California and New York impose much stricter bans on large-bore functional weaponry and specific armored vehicle features.
Technically, any tank with rubber tracks is street legal in many states, provided it meets width requirements and has working lights and turn signals.
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