Ask the Mayor: Can a Kid Fire a Paintball Gun Outside a Designated Park?

Mayor Alan Arakawa answers some of the questions submitted to his staff.

Submit your own questions about County of Maui programs, services, operations or policies to Mayor Alan Arakawa at [email protected], 270-7855 or mail them to 200 S. High St., 9th Floor, Wailuku, HI 96793.

Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask the Mayor” column.

Dear Mayor Arakawa,

Q: Is it legal for a minor to fire a paintball gun in a residential area or anywhere outside of a paintball park?

A: The answer is a bit complicated, but in general, yes, if under the supervision of an adult and not in a public place.

According to the Maui Police Department and the county’s Office of the Prosecuting Attorney, a paintball gun is considered an air gun because it contains a compressed air mechanism. That means that by law, a juvenile would need to use the paintball gun under adult supervision, in a controlled environment, and not causing harm to anyone or damage to property.

Maui County Code § 9.28.020 specifies that it is unlawful for a minor under the age of 18 years to own, acquire by purchase, gift or otherwise possess, use, operate or play with an air gun unless under the immediate supervision of an adult.

The code also indicates that such use may not take place on a public highway, in a public park or playground, on school premises, in theaters, airports, harbors, piers, or any other public place (not including a bona fide public target range).

It is also against the law to sell a minor under 18 years of age any ball, pellet or other missiles designed to be used for or by air guns.

To view the County Code, visit www.mauicounty.gov/laws.