Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms in Virginia

Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms in Virginia is Required by Law

Virginia requires anyone who is in lawful possession of a firearm to report a loss or theft of that firearm (Va. Code §18.2-287.5). Failure to timely do so will result in a civil penalty, and the person could potentially be held criminally or civilly liable for any acts resulting from the unreported loss or theft.

What is Considered a Firearm?

The general definition of a “firearm” in Virginia is “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 or Stolen Firearms in Virginia

Anyone lawfully in possession of a firearm must report its loss or theft to a local law-enforcement agency or the Department of State Police within 48 hours of discovering the loss or theft or being informed of its loss or theft (Va. Code §18.2-287.5). The law-enforcement agency will then update that information into the National Crime Information Center.

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

Penalty for Not Reporting Lost or Stolen Firearms in Virginia

Failing to report a lost or stolen firearm in Virginia is punished with a civil penalty up to $250.

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