§2277 Explosives or Dangerous Weapons Aboard Vessels

Summary

You must not bring, carry, or have weapons or explosives on certain ships unless you get permission first. That covers dangerous weapons or devices and explosives like dynamite or nitroglycerin. The rule applies to vessels documented under U.S. law, to ships bought, requisitioned, chartered, or taken over by the United States under the June 6, 1941 Act, and to vessels controlled, seized, or guarded by the United States. If the ship is privately owned or operated, you need permission from the owner or the ship’s master. If the ship is under U.S. control, you need permission from the captain of the port where the ship is located. Violators can be fined under federal law or jailed for up to one year, or both. The rule does not apply to U.S. Armed Forces members or to federal, state, or local officers or employees who are working and are legally allowed to have the weapon or explosive.