Wyoming Gun Laws

If you’re a firearm enthusiast or a responsible gun owner, understanding concealed carry reciprocity is crucial. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of Wyoming’s concealed carry reciprocity laws, outlining the key aspects and considerations for those interested in carrying a concealed weapon within the state.

Whether you’re a Wyoming resident or plan to visit the state, this guide will equip you with essential information about where you can legally carry your concealed firearm.

Overview of Wyoming Gun Laws

Wyoming is proud to be a “shall-issue” state, granting concealed carry permits (CCW) to residents through the Wyoming Concealed Carry Firearms Permit (WCFP) process. The local sheriff’s office within the applicant’s county of residence is responsible for processing the permit. However, it’s important to note that the decision to issue a concealed carry permit is at the discretion of the local police.

Constitutional Carry: A Landmark Change

As of July 1, 2021, Wyoming residents have the privilege of constitutional carry. This groundbreaking change allows legal residents aged 21 and older, who lawfully possess a firearm, to carry concealed or openly without the need for a permit. This aligns with Wyoming’s commitment to individual rights while maintaining responsible firearm ownership.

Where Concealed Carry is Allowed

Wyoming’s lenient gun laws extend to various locations, granting individuals the right to carry concealed weapons in a wide range of places. Here are some key points to consider:

• State parks and national forests are open to concealed carry.
• Roadside rest areas are permissible for concealed carry.
• Concealed carry is allowed in vehicles, provided the individual is at least 21 years old and legally allowed to possess a firearm.
• Certain areas, such as facilities used for law enforcement, detention facilities, and courtrooms, have restrictions on concealed carry.

Wyoming gun laws for felons

Felons are prohibited from possessing firearms in Wyoming. Possession of a firearm by a restricted person is a felony offense. Felons must have their rights legally restored to own guns.

Wyoming Gun Laws for Out-of-State Residents

Residents from out-of-state can legally purchase and possess firearms in Wyoming as long as they are legally eligible to own guns under federal law. No waiting periods or permits exist.

Wyoming Gun Law Against Federal Agents

Wyoming passed a law prohibiting state/local officials from enforcing federal gun restrictions that violate the state’s Firearms Freedom Act. However, it does not apply to federal agents operating in Wyoming.

Carrying in Vehicles and State Parks

Wyoming allows for permitless concealed carry within vehicles, as long as the individual is at least 21 years old and legally allowed to own a firearm. Additionally, individuals can carry firearms in state parks and forests, but usage of firearms within state parks is prohibited.

Navigating Wyoming’s Restaurants and Alcohol Establishments

Concealed carry is generally permitted in restaurants and establishments in Wyoming. However, carrying firearms into bars or bar sections of restaurants is prohibited. It’s important to respect any “No Weapons” signs, as these hold legal weight in Wyoming.

Wyoming’s Reciprocity Agreements

Wyoming has reciprocity agreements with several states, allowing individuals with valid CCW permits from those states to carry concealed firearms in Wyoming. It’s worth noting that some states have restricted reciprocity with Wyoming, while others fully honor Wyoming CCW permits.

Understanding How Reciprocity Works

Reciprocity means that if you possess a valid CCW permit from a reciprocal U.S. state, you can legally carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming. However, while carrying in Wyoming, you must adhere to both county and state laws.

States That Honor Wyoming CCW Permits

Wyoming’s CCW permits are honored in various states across the nation, including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, and more. This recognition ensures that your Wyoming CCW permit provides you with additional carry rights when traveling.

States That Do Not Honor Wyoming CCW Permits

While many states honor Wyoming CCW permits, certain states, including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, and others, do not recognize Wyoming’s permits. It’s important to be aware of these limitations if you plan to carry concealed while traveling.

Conclusion

Wyoming’s concealed carry reciprocity laws offer significant rights and privileges to responsible gun owners. With the implementation of constitutional carry, Wyoming residents aged 21 and older can now carry concealed or openly without the need for a permit.

Additionally, the state honors reciprocity agreements with numerous other states, granting individuals with valid CCW permits from those states the right to carry concealed firearms in Wyoming.

Anyone carrying a concealed firearm in Wyoming needs to be aware of the locations where carrying is allowed and the areas with restrictions. Respecting “No Weapons” signs and abiding by county and state laws are crucial aspects of responsible firearm ownership.

FAQs;

Q1: Is Wyoming a constitutional carry state?

Yes, Wyoming passed a constitutional carry law on July 1, 2021, allowing individuals aged 21 and older to carry concealed or openly without a permit.

Q2: Can I carry a concealed firearm in my vehicle?

Yes, Wyoming residents who are legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry a loaded handgun in their vehicle without a permit, as long as it is not concealed on their person and is visible.

Q3: Are there restrictions on carrying firearms in state parks?

While you can carry firearms in Wyoming’s state parks and national forests, using those firearms within state parks is prohibited.

Q4: Can I carry a concealed firearm in restaurants that serve alcohol?

Yes, concealed carry is generally permitted in Wyoming restaurants, but carrying into bars or bar sections of restaurants is prohibited.

Q5: Do “No Weapons” signs hold legal weight in Wyoming?

Yes, Wyoming recognizes “No Weapons” signs as having the force of law behind them. Entering a property with such a sign can result in trespassing charges.

Q6: Can I conceal carry in Wyoming without a permit?

Yes, Wyoming allows permitless concealed carry for residents and non-residents. The state has constitutional carry, meaning no permit is required to carry a concealed handgun for lawful purposes.

Q7: Can you carry a handgun while hunting in Wyoming?

Yes, properly licensed individuals can carry a handgun for self-defense while rifle/archery hunting in Wyoming. However, regulations prohibit taking game animals with handguns during big game hunting seasons.