New York Gun Laws
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of New York’s concealed carry reciprocity, outlining the state’s gun laws, concealed carry permit requirements, and where you can carry your firearm legally. Whether you are a resident of New York or plan to travel to the state, understanding its concealed carry laws is essential for responsible gun ownership and compliance with the regulations.
Overview of New York Gun Laws
New York is classified as a “shall-issue” state concerning concealed carry permits. To obtain a concealed carry license in the state, individuals must apply to their local county’s sheriff and demonstrate “proper cause” justifying the issuance of the New York Pistol License (NYPL).
For the purchase of a handgun, applicants must acquire a permit, undergo a background check, and register the firearm. Possessing or using an unregistered handgun is illegal in New York. To carry a loaded handgun outside one’s residence or business, a valid NYPL is required for both open and concealed carry.
New York Gun Laws Quick Facts
Let’s look at some quick facts about New York’s gun laws:
Constitutional Carry?
No – New York is not considered a constitutional carry state.
Open Carry Permitted?
No – While open carry isn’t explicitly mentioned in statutes, attorney generals consider it illegal.
Carry In Vehicle?
Yes – Concealed carry is allowed with a NYPL. Without a license, handguns must be unloaded, locked, and stored separately from ammunition.
Carry In State Park?
No – New York does NOT allow concealed carry in state parks.
Carry In Restaurants?
No – Carrying a firearm into a restaurant or bar serving alcohol is prohibited since July 1st, 2022.
No Weapon Sign Enforced?
No – There is no specific code enforcing no weapons signs.
Must Notify Officer?
No – While there is no duty to inform, individuals must truthfully answer if asked and provide a permit and valid photo ID.
New York CCW Reciprocity List
States Honoring CCW
- Alabama*
- Alaska*
- Arizona*
- Arkansas
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana*
- Iowa*
- Kansas*
- Kentucky*
- Maine*
- Michigan*
- Mississippi
- Missouri*
- Montana
- New Hampshire
- North Carolina
- Ohio*
- Oklahoma*
- South Dakota
- Tennessee*
- Texas*
- Utah*
- Vermont
- Virginia*
- West Virginia*
- Wisconsin*
(*Restricted Reciprocity with New York)
States NOT Honoring CCW
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Washington
- Washington D.C
- Wyoming
Honors These States CCW Permits
New York only accepts a New York City pistol license from another state.
How Reciprocity Works In New York
Unfortunately, New York does not have any reciprocal agreements with other states regarding concealed carry permits. This means that only a New York City pistol license is recognized throughout the state.
New York: Where Is CCW Allowed?
Places Allowed
- Forestry lands, owned and maintained by the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry
- All areas of the state – except those listed as Off-Limits.
Places Not Allowed
- Courthouses
- Government buildings (in certain cities and counties)
- New York airports
- Buildings or grounds used for educational purposes of any school, college, or university
- Within the city of New York unless a special permit is issued by the police commissioner
- At any facility operated or licensed by the Office of Mental Health
- Any place where carrying firearms is prohibited by Federal Law.
New York: Concealed Carry Laws
Open Carry
No laws in New York statutes mention open carry explicitly. While some rural counties may tolerate it, carrying openly in urban areas may result in legal issues. A New York license is required for carrying any firearm in the state.
Carry In Vehicle
Concealed carry is allowed with a NYPL. Without a license, handguns must be unloaded, locked, and stored separately from ammunition.
Carry In State Parks
Carrying a firearm is illegal in state parks, national forests, and state wildlife management areas.
Carry In Restaurants
Carrying firearms into restaurants or bars serving alcohol is prohibited since July 1st, 2022.
Constitutional Carry
New York is not a constitutional carry state.
No Weapon Signs Enforced
There are no specific statutes on gun signs in New York.
Must Notify Officer
While there is no legal requirement to inform law enforcement, individuals must carry their pistol license at all times when carrying a handgun and must display it if requested by an officer.
Conclusion
Understanding New York’s concealed carry reciprocity and gun laws is crucial for responsible gun owners. Remember that New York only recognizes a New York City pistol license from other states, and concealed carry is generally restricted in certain areas. Always ensure compliance with local regulations and exercise responsible gun ownership.
FAQs
1. Can I open carry in New York?
Open carry is not specifically mentioned in New York statutes, but it is generally considered illegal, especially in urban areas.
2. What is the minimum age to carry concealed in New York?
To carry concealed, you must be at least 21 years old with the legal ability to own or possess a firearm.
3. Does New York have “Stand Your Ground” laws?
No, New York does not have “Stand Your Ground” laws.
4. Can I transport a handgun without a license in New York?
Without a license, you can transport a handgun if it is fully unloaded, separated from ammunition, placed in a locked container, and stored away from all passengers.
5. Does New York recognize out-of-state concealed carry permits?
No, New York does not recognize any other state’s permits or licenses related to concealed carry, except for a New York City pistol license.
