Washington, D.C. has firearm laws that are separate from both federal law and the surrounding states. These laws regulate firearms, parts, magazines, ammunition, and transfer procedures through a highly centralized local system. The complexity and rigidity of these requirements make it impractical for out-of-area retailers like Arm Or Ally to sell or ship regulated products into Washington, D.C.

How Are Firearms Regulated in Washington, D.C.?

Washington, D.C. maintains one of the most restrictive firearm regulatory frameworks in the United States. All firearms must be registered with the Metropolitan Police Department, and most transactions must be processed locally through D.C.-approved procedures. Firearm transfers generally require in-person steps within the District.
 

Official Metropolitan Police Department firearms information:
https://mpdc.dc.gov/page/firearms-registration-general-information

Why Is This a Problem for Online Retailers?

Washington, D.C.’s firearm laws are built around local registration, local approval, and direct coordination with D.C. authorities. These requirements do not align with standard interstate e-commerce fulfillment models and often require local dealers, local transfers, and in-person compliance steps.
 

For an out-of-area seller, ensuring every transaction complies with D.C.’s registration, licensing, and approval rules presents a high risk of accidental noncompliance.

Magazine, Ammunition, and Parts Restrictions

Washington, D.C. restricts magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds and regulates the possession and transfer of ammunition. Ammunition purchases are generally tied to registered firearms, and certain calibers may only be possessed if the firearm is registered with the District.
 

These requirements significantly complicate direct-to-consumer sales of magazines, ammunition, and firearm components.

District firearm and ammunition regulations:
https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/titles/7/subtitles/III/chapters/25

Transfer, Licensing, and Registration Requirements

Washington, D.C. requires firearm owners to obtain licenses and register each firearm with the Metropolitan Police Department. Transfers, including those originating outside the District, are subject to D.C.-specific procedures and approvals that go beyond federal requirements.

These processes add delays, administrative complexity, and legal risk for sellers that are not physically located within the District.

Is This a Political Decision?

No. This is a business and risk-management decision. Washington, D.C.’s centralized registration system, strict magazine and ammunition rules, and local transfer requirements create compliance obligations and legal exposure that are not practical for Arm Or Ally to manage as an out-of-area retailer.

Will Arm Or Ally Sell to Washington, D.C. in the Future?

At this time, no. Until Washington, D.C. law becomes clearer, more standardized, and more compatible with interstate e-commerce sales, Arm Or Ally does not sell or ship firearms, parts, accessories, magazines, or ammunition into the District of Columbia.