Federal regulations on cannons?

[ironfoot]

Can one build a cannon without need of securing a ferderal permit?
Do cannons need serial numbers, like modern firearms?
In Minnesota, toy cannons are classified as "fireworks".
One cannot legally own fireworks, unless one has a state permit.
Generally individuals can't get fireworks permits.
So, I assume there must be some kind of regulation to manufacture and possess "real" cannons.

[Cat Whisperer]

Can one build a cannon without need of securing a ferderal permit?
Do cannons need serial numbers, like modern firearms?
In Minnesota, toy cannons are classified as "fireworks".
One cannot legally own fireworks, unless one has a state permit.
Generally individuals can't get fireworks permits.
So, I assume there must be some kind of regulation to manufacture and possess "real" cannons.

OK, let me address a couple of these.  Here's a link (buried inside one of our "STICKY's" at the top of the page: http://www.gboreloaded.com/forums//index.php/topic,16901.0.html

You need to read through the CFR's (combined federal regulations) regarding what is allowed.  Generally it's pre 1899 or 'replicas' there of, not cartridges that are commonly available, etc.  (We're not lawyers and don't pretend to give legal advice.)  So if you have a question of what MIGHT be boarderline (thanks George) you need to submit in writing to the technical branch of BATF for a ruling before you build.  There are other areas that are regulated as separate categories and come under different laws - signaling devices, fireworks, 'destructive devices' and so forth.

Local and state laws are just that.  Since I live in Virginia I won't guess at other state's nor other localities.