Reporting Lost Firearms in Virginia

Reporting Lost Firearms in Virginia is Required by Law

Reporting lost firearms in Virginia is required under Va. Code §18.2-287.5. Failure to timely report lost firearms in Virginia will result in a civil penalty. Additionally, the person could potentially be held both civilly and criminally liable for any acts resulting from the unreported loss of the firearm.

What is Considered a Firearm?

In Virginia a “firearm” is defined as “an instrument designed, made, and intended to expel a projectile by means of an explosion.” It is not necessary to prove that the instrument was “operable,” “capable of being fired,” or has the “actual capacity to do serious harm.”

Reporting Lost Firearms in Virginia

Anyone who is in lawful possession of a firearm must report its loss to a local law-enforcement agency or the Department of State Police within 48 hours of discovering the loss or within 48 hours of being informed that the firearm was lost. The law-enforcement agency will then update that information into the National Crime Information Center.

Any person who reports a lost firearm (in good faith) will not be held civilly or criminally liable for damages resulting from the loss.

Penalty for Not Reporting Lost Firearms in Virginia

Failing to report a lost firearm in Virginia is punished with a civil penalty up to $250. Additionally, the person could be held liable civilly and criminally for anything that resulted from the unreported loss.

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