Michigan Constitutional Carry

Michigan is a state with specific laws and regulations concerning concealed carry and possession of firearms. Understanding these laws is essential for residents and visitors to ensure they remain compliant with the state’s requirements. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of Michigan’s gun laws, from concealed carry permits to the restrictions on firearm possession in certain locations.

Michigan is not a constitutional carry state, which means individuals are required to have a gun permit for the concealed carry of firearms within the state. It operates as a shall-issue state, meaning if applicants meet all the necessary requirements, the state is obligated to grant them a permit. The issuance of permits in Michigan is the responsibility of the sheriff in each local county.

Michigan Concealed Carry Permit: Shall-Issue State

To obtain a concealed carry permit in Michigan, applicants must meet certain criteria set forth by the state. The application process involves completing a firearm expertise course, which must be state-approved and includes eight hours of instruction and three hours of shooting practice. This training is crucial in ensuring responsible and safe gun ownership.

The application is submitted at the local county’s clerk office, where an oath is taken and a quality passport picture and fingerprints are provided to the sheriff’s office. After the application is submitted, the processing time for the permit is approximately forty-five days. The cost for fingerprints is $15, and the permit application fee is $115. The permit is valid for about five years.

Possession of Firearms in Michigan

Open Carry in Michigan

Michigan permits the open carry of firearms; however, there are some state restrictions. Individuals must be at least eighteen years old to open carry. Licensed residents can only open carry if they have a registered firearm, while non-residents must possess a valid license issued by their state of residence.

Concealed Carry in Michigan

Concealed carry in Michigan is only allowed if the individual possesses the state’s pistol license. Non-residents aged twenty-one or older can also carry openly if they have a valid permit from their home state. It is important to note that open carry is allowed in more locations than concealed carry.

Firearms Prohibitions in Michigan

While Michigan allows the possession of firearms, certain restrictions apply. The state prohibits the purchase, sale, possession, or use of assault weapons such as machine guns and semi-automatic firearms, with exceptions for manufacturers adhering to federal and state laws. Additionally, federally licensed sellers and government-contracted gun manufacturers may be allowed to possess, sell, or purchase firearms.

Places Where Firearms are Prohibited

Regardless of whether an individual has a permit, open and concealed carry in Michigan is illegal in some locations, with exemptions for peace officers and law enforcement officers. Some places where firearms are prohibited include:

• Buildings or properties used for children’s care or daycare centers, whether government or privately owned.
• Halls of residence in colleges, technical institutions, or universities.
• Stadiums or venues used for professional sporting activities.
• Bars where the primary source of income is alcohol sales.
• Places of worship such as churches, mosques, temples, or synagogues, unless permitted by the person in charge.
• Facilities with holding capacities exceeding two thousand five hundred.
• Hospitals or other health institutions.
• Michigan State University or Wayne University, except for visitors with Michigan CCW permits.
• Restricted airport areas.
• Game houses or casinos.
• Courthouses or offices within a courthouse are used by chief judges and other judicial workers, except for those with written policies allowing firearms.
• Areas prohibited by federal laws of the United States.

Application for Michigan Gun License

Michigan issues gun licenses only to residents of the state. Military personnel on active duty stationed in Michigan and their spouses are also eligible to apply. Law enforcement agents, peace officers, and active-duty military members do not need a gun license to possess firearms in Michigan.

Michigan Pistol Permit Renewal

The renewal process for a Michigan pistol permit can begin at least six months before the expiration date. Permit holders receive notification from their county clerk within this time frame. Renewals can be done in person at the local county, via mail, or online. Online renewal is available for eligible applicants and requires a provided PIN. Those without a PIN must renew through the mail, including a check for the required fee to the Michigan State Police Licensing Unit.

Requirements for Gun Application in Michigan

To apply for a gun permit in Michigan, applicants must meet specific requirements, including being at least twenty-one years old, completing a state-certified firearm training course overseen by an instructor, being a resident of Michigan for at least six months, and having a valid state identification card like a driver’s license. Other requirements include not having a felony conviction or any related charges, not being legally incapacitated or mentally unstable, not having a court order prohibiting firearm possession, not having a dishonorable discharge from the armed forces, and meeting all other federal laws required for concealed carry permits.

Constitutional Carry in Michigan

Michigan preempts local gun laws; therefore, no local government area can create ordinances or regulations concerning firearms and ammunition. However, local municipalities and counties can regulate firearms for safety reasons within their jurisdictions, such as prohibiting firearms in certain areas or regulating their possession by local government employees.

Conclusion

Michigan’s gun laws are designed to promote responsible gun ownership and ensure public safety. Understanding the regulations around concealed carry permits and the restrictions on firearm possession in specific locations is crucial for residents and visitors alike. By adhering to these laws, individuals can exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly.

FAQs;

Q1. Can non-residents purchase firearms in Michigan?

Non-residents are allowed to buy only long guns within Michigan; handguns are restricted to residents.

Q2. Where can I openly carry firearms in Michigan?

Open carry is permitted in many places in Michigan, but concealed carry requires a state pistol license.

Q3. Are firearms allowed in Michigan state parks and private hotels?

Michigan gun laws do not prohibit the possession of firearms in state parks and forests. However, private hotels can set their regulations for firearm possession.

Q4. Do I need a permit to conceal carry in a privately-owned property?

No, you do not need a permit to conceal carry in a privately owned residence, business, or property.

Q5. Is constitutional carry allowed everywhere in Michigan?

Yes, permitless carry is the same throughout the state, as no local government can impose regulations on firearms except as required for safety.