Mississippi laws by category

Consumer fireworks are legal to buy and use statewide in Mississippi, but retail sales are allowed only May 23–July 12 and December 5–January 9 (Miss. Code § 45-13-9, as amended by 2025 S.B. 2210). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Mississippi lets you carry a pistol or revolver without a license only in a sheath, belt holster or shoulder holster, or in a purse, handbag, satchel, similar bag, briefcase or fully enclosed case (Miss. Code 45-9-101(24)). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Mississippi is a spirits "control" state at wholesale: the Department of Revenue is the sole wholesale importer and seller of distilled spirits and of wine over 6.25% alcohol by volume. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Radar detectors are legal in private passenger vehicles — Mississippi has no ban for passenger cars. Federal law does ban them in commercial motor vehicles (49 CFR 392.71).

In Mississippi, open burning of household or other solid waste, garbage, plastics, tires or homes is prohibited (11 Miss. Admin. Code Pt. 2, R. 1.3(G)). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

In Mississippi, residents 16 through 64 need a fishing license to fish public fresh or marine waters (privately owned ponds excepted), and every non-resident 16 or older needs one, with no senior exemption. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

State sales tax is 7% on retail sales of most tangible personal property and many services (Miss. Code Ann. Section 27-65-17). Certain items carry reduced rates — e.g., 5% on automobiles and light trucks, 1.5% on farm and manufacturing machinery, 3.5% on large construction contracts.

Mississippi allows medical cannabis only, and registered patients with a qualifying condition may use medical marijuana. Recreational use is illegal, though small amounts are decriminalized. It is regulated by the Mississippi State Department of Health.

In Mississippi, anyone hunting deer by any method while any gun season on deer is open, and anyone hunting wild hogs during an open gun season on deer, must wear fluorescent orange or pink in full view. Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Mississippi sports betting is legal but on-premise only: retail at licensed casinos, mobile ONLY while physically on casino property; minimum age 21. No statewide mobile; 2026 statewide-mobile bills failed. Regulated by the MS Gaming Commission.

In Mississippi, anyone born after June 30, 1980 must complete a boating safety course conducted or approved by the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (MDWFP) before operating a motorboat that must be registered, and must carry the course certificate while operating (Miss. Code 59-21-85). Exceptions may apply — read the full rule.

Switchblades/automatics are legal to own and open-carry; Miss. Code 97-37-1 only criminalizes carrying them concealed (a misdemeanor) absent a 45-9-101 enhanced permit.

Mississippi's voyeurism/Peeping-Tom felony (97-29-61) names 'drones' among instruments barred from viewing into a bedroom, bathroom or any area with a reasonable expectation of privacy.