Firearms and Licensing

** Only Money Orders or Personal Checks will be accepted as payment. No cash or credit cards accepted. Money orders or checks must be made payable to the City of Lowell **

The state legislature made sweeping and extensive changes to the Commonwealth's gun laws in 1998. The laws are multi-faceted and complex, and this web page is offered for informational purposes only. It is not offered as any definite legal position, guarantee of issuance or binding legal interpretation by the Lowell Police. If you have a specific legal issue regarding ownership, possession or transportation as well as your eligibility (or lack thereof) for the various types of firearms you are advised to speak to a lawyer for a qualified legal opinion.

Steps to Follow in Applying for a License:

  • The first step is to take a Firearms Safety Course that is approved by the Massachusetts State Police. A certificate of completion will be granted to you upon successful completion of the course. Check at your local gun club or www.goal.org to find a certified training program.
  • The second step in the process is to contact the Lowell Police Department, Firearms and Licensing Unit in order to schedule an appointment for an interview, or additional requirements. To schedule an appointment call (978) 937-3208. Be advised, the application process is computerized. All permits that are issued are valid for a term of six years. Applicants applying for the License to Carry or the Firearms Identification Card will submit a money order for $100.00 dollars. This fee is non-refundable. All requested documentation and fee are due at the time of the interview. Be advised, there is no fee required for applicants over the age of 70.
  • If you are applying for a Firearms Identification Card that is restricted only to chemical propellant, you will need to submit a $25.00 non-refundable application fee. There is no safety course required. This fee applies to new applicants under the age of 70. If you are renewing this license or over the age of 70, the license is free of charge. All requested documentation and fees (if applicable) are due at the time of the interview.
  • All money orders will be made out payable to the City of Lowell. No cash, personal checks or credit cards accepted.
  • The licensing authority of the Lowell Police Department reviews the application. Applicants will be notified by mail once the application process is completed.
  • If you have further question you may e-mail me at KWitts@lowellma.gov .

Resident Aliens

A resident alien may apply to the Criminal History Systems Board (CHSB) for an alien permit to possess a non-large capacity rifle or shotgun. This permit is valid from January 1 st and expires Midnight December 31 st . You may contact the CHSB @ (617) 660-4638 for an application. For specific questions, please contact (CHSB) directly.

Non-Residents

Persons who are non-residents of the Commonwealth may apply directly to the (CHSB) for a non-resident license to carry firearms. This permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. You may contact the Criminal History Systems Board at 617-660-4638 for an application.

Change of Address

If you possess a License to Carry Firearms or a Firearms Identification Card you are required to make notification if you move within 30 days of it's occurrence. You must send written notification (registered mail is suggested). You can obtain a change of address form by going to http://www.mass.gov In the search box type "Firearms Forms. Detailed instructions are located on the Change of Address form.

Lost/Stolen Firearms

If your firearm was lost or stolen, you are required to file a police report with your local police department as well as completing an E-FA-10 form forthwith. This form can be located on the internet at www.mass.gov/cjis. This is required per MGL 140, 129c. Failure to do so can result in a fine and/or suspension of your LTC or FID.

Licensing Unit Hours for Service

FIREARMS – GUN PERMITS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
CALL (978)937-3208

TAXI LICENSE’S – TUESDAY’S
   9:00 AM – 11:30 AM (No Appointment Necessary)

FINGERPRINTS –THURSDAY'S
  LOWELL RESIDENTS/BUSINESS 
  9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
$5.00 per card. Money Order or Personal Checks only. No cash or credit cards accepted. Made payable to “City of Lowell”

PEDDLERS LICENSE – AS NEEDED. APPLICATIONS OBTAINED @ CITY HALL