Utah Open Carry: Laws, Requirements, Application & Online Training
Utah allows the use and possession of firearms within the state, provided the owner has a permit. However, there are specific location restrictions that every firearm owner must adhere to when carrying weapons. In this article, we will explore Utah’s gun laws, focusing on open carry regulations. We’ll cover who can open carry, where it is legal to open carry, prohibited locations, relevant laws, and more.
Utah Gun Laws Summary
Utah issues concealed firearm permits for the possession of firearms. The state follows a “shall-issue” policy, with the Department of Public Safety responsible for the application procedure. A purchase permit is not required to buy firearms in Utah, but a criminal record background check is mandatory unless the individual has a valid firearm permit. The state issues permits to both residents and non-residents.
Is Open Carry Legal In Utah?
Yes, open carry is legal in Utah for individuals who are eighteen years old or older and do not have any state or federal prohibition. However, open carry requires a firearm permit. There is an exception, though: individuals can open carry without a permit if their handgun is not loaded, and they are at least two steps away from discharging it. The two steps involve activating the chamber and pulling the trigger.
Utah Open Gun Laws Quick View
| Law/Policy | Long Guns | Handguns | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| State permit for open carry | No | Yes | To open carry in Utah, you must have a concealed firearm permit. |
| Firearm registrations for open carry | No | No | No requirements to register firearms before open carry in Utah. |
| Assault weapon for open carry | Yes | Yes | Possession of machine guns and antique firearms is allowed. |
| Magazine limit | No | No | No limit on the number of rounds a firearm magazine can contain. |
| License for the owner of a firearm | Not required | Not required | Concealed carry-in vehicles allowed with a firearm permit. |
| Red flag law | No | No | No red flag law or extreme risk protection order in Utah. |
| Castle doctrine law | Yes | Yes | Right to stand your ground on your property or any legal place. |
| Background check for private dealers | Yes | Yes | No requirement for background checks for private dealers except in Salt Lake County. |
| Concealed carry permit | No | Yes | Concealed firearms require a permit in Utah. |
| Concealed carry in personal vehicle | No | Yes | Open carry is not allowed in schools, colleges, and universities in Utah. |
| Open carry in Schools | No | No | Open carry not allowed in schools, colleges, and universities in Utah. |
Where Is It Legal To Open Carry In Utah?
Utah permits open carry in several areas of the state:
- Restaurants and Bars: Open carry is allowed in restaurant areas unless there is a sign prohibiting it.
- Private Cars: Open carry is permitted in personal vehicles with the owner’s or driver’s permission.
- Roadside Areas: Open carry is allowed in Utah’s roadside areas.
- State Parks and Forests: Open carry is permitted in state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.
- Places of Worship: Open carry is generally allowed in places of worship unless prohibited by the governing body.
Where Is It Illegal To Open Carry In Utah?
Open carry of firearms is not allowed in the following locations in Utah:
- Prisons: Open carry is prohibited in state prisons, jails, or correctional facilities.
- Law Enforcement Buildings: Open carry is not allowed in any building used by law enforcement officers.
- Courthouse: Open carry is prohibited in state or county courthouses and during court proceedings.
- Health Facilities: Open carry is not allowed in hospitals or mental health facilities.
- Safety Zones of Airport Areas: Open carry is prohibited in secured airport zones.
- Under the Influence of Alcohol: Open carry is not permitted while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances (BAC over 0.05).
- Prohibited Places: Open carry is not allowed in areas prohibited by federal gun laws.
Relevant Open Carry Laws And Legislature In Utah
No Weapon Sign
Utah prohibits the possession of firearms on properties with signs forbidding weapons. It is illegal to enter such places with a firearm, whether open carry or concealed carry.
Preemption Laws
Utah is a preemption gun law state, granting the state government the authority to regulate firearms within its jurisdiction. However, local municipalities can enforce laws regarding the discharge of firearms within their boundaries.
Brandishing Of Firearms
Utah law prohibits displaying firearms in a dangerous or threatening manner in the presence of others. Engaging in violent conduct is also illegal, except in cases of self-defense or lawful use by law enforcement officers.
Possession Of Firearms Under The Influence Of Alcohol
It is unlawful to possess firearms while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance in Utah. The state defines “under the influence” as having a blood alcohol concentration of over 0.05 grams outside of one’s residence or without consent in another person’s residence.
Open Carry While Hunting
Open carry is allowed while hunting in Utah, except within municipalities that prohibit it. However, for bow hunting, only archery equipment is lawful, and concealed firearms are not allowed for taking down game.
Utah has implemented hunter harassment laws to protect lawful hunting activities in the state.
Conclusion
Utah’s open carry laws allow firearm owners to openly carry handguns with the appropriate permit. However, it’s essential to be aware of the locations where open carry is prohibited to avoid legal complications. Understanding the relevant laws and regulations ensures responsible gun ownership in the state.
FAQs
Can I open carry in Utah without a permit?
Yes, you can open carry without a permit if your handgun is not loaded and you are at least two steps away from discharging it.
Can non-residents obtain a firearm permit in Utah?
Yes, Utah issues permits to both residents and non-residents.
What is the legal age for open carry in Utah?
You must be eighteen years old or older to open carry in Utah without a state or federal prohibition.
Are there magazine limits for firearms in Utah?
No, there is no limit on the number of rounds a firearm magazine can contain in Utah.
Can I open carry in state parks and forests?
Yes, open carry is permitted in Utah’s state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.
