Wyoming Open Carry: Laws, Requirements, Application & Online Training
Wyoming is known as a constitutional carry state, meaning it allows unrestricted use of firearms without the need for a permit. However, this doesn’t mean you can carry firearms freely in every part of the state. There are still some location restrictions and important laws to consider when open carrying in Wyoming. In this article, we will explore the state’s gun laws, open carry regulations, places where open carry is allowed, and places where it is prohibited. Additionally, we will address frequently asked questions to help you better understand Wyoming’s firearm regulations.
Wyoming Gun Laws Summary
In Wyoming, you can obtain a concealed firearm permit, but the state is also a permitless carry state, allowing individuals to open carry without a permit. The local sheriff’s office processes the concealed carry permit application, while Wyoming’s division of criminal investigation issues the permit. However, Wyoming does not issue purchase permits to buy firearms; instead, a criminal record check is required, unless you already possess a firearm permit. Only residents of Wyoming can apply for concealed firearm permits.
Open Carry Laws in Wyoming
Wyoming has permissive open carry laws, meaning you do not need a permit to open carry firearms. Additionally, the state does not impose restrictions on ammunition types, allowing you to possess assault weapons as long as you comply with federal regulations.
Wyoming’s Open Gun Laws Quick View
| Law/Policy | Long Guns | Handguns | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| State permit for open carry | No | No | You do not need a permit to open carry firearms in Wyoming. |
| Firearm registrations for open carry | No | No | Wyoming does not have any law that requires you to register firearms for open carry. |
| Assault weapon for open carry | Yes | Yes | You can legally possess machine guns and similar weapons in Wyoming as long as you comply with federal regulations. |
| Magazine limit | No | No | There are no magazine limits in the state and no law prohibition for large capacity firearms. |
| License for the owner of a firearm | Not required | Not required | The state does not issue any exclusive license to firearm owners. |
| Red flag law | No | No | There are no red flag laws in Wyoming, and the gun statutes do not mention the issuance of an extreme risk protection order. |
| Castle doctrine law | Yes | Yes | Wyoming is a castle doctrine state, and you can stand your ground in your home of residence and any other place you have lawful rights to be. |
| Background check for private dealers | No | No | There are no requirements for private firearm dealers in the state to complete a criminal record check before selling firearms. |
| Preemption | Yes | Yes | Yes. Wyoming has preemption gun laws, and the state government reserves all right to regulate firearms. |
| Concealed carry permit | No | Yes | Although Wyoming is a permitless carry state, you can still apply for the concealed firearm permits. |
| Concealed carry in personal vehicle | No | Yes | You can conceal carry in your private car or another person’s, with the owner’s consent. |
| Open carry in Schools | No | No | Open carry is not allowed in schools, colleges, universities, and technical institutions in the state. |
Places Where Open Carry is Legal
Wyoming allows open carry in various locations as long as you comply with state regulations and do not possess a firearm prohibition. The following are places where open carry is legal:
Restaurants and Bars
You can open carry in restaurants and bars unless there is a sign prohibiting the possession of firearms.
Private Vehicles
Open carry is legal in private vehicles, including your own car or any other vehicle with the owner’s consent.
Roadside Areas
Open carry is allowed in roadside areas throughout Wyoming.
State Parks and Forests
You can open carry and possess firearms in state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.
Places of Worship
Open carry is generally not illegal in places of worship unless there is a prohibition by the governing body in charge.
Places Where Open Carry is Illegal
Wyoming gun laws prohibit open carry and possession of firearms in specific parts of the state. The following are places where open carry is illegal:
Schools
You cannot open carry or possess firearms in schools, including elementary, secondary, colleges, and universities.
Sports Fields and Events
Open carry is not allowed in any professional sports field or event in the state unless related to the use of firearms.
Law Enforcement Offices
You cannot open carry or use firearms in any building or property used by law enforcement officers without permission.
Prisons and Correctional Facilities
Open carry or possession of firearms is not allowed in Wyoming prisons, jails, detention facilities, or correctional homes for juveniles.
Courtrooms
You cannot open carry or possess a firearm in any courtroom or during a court proceeding without permission from the judge.
Government and Legislative Meetings
Open carry is prohibited during any meeting held by a government or political body in the state, including legislative sessions.
Bars and Alcohol-Selling Venues
Open carry is not allowed in bars or similar ventures meant for the sale of alcohol for on-site consumption.
Hospitals and Healthcare Centers
You cannot open carry or possess firearms in any state hospital or healthcare center.
Prohibited Areas
Open carry is also not allowed in any area prohibited by the gun laws of the state.
Relevant Open Carry Laws and Legislature in Wyoming
Wyoming has specific laws and regulations related to open carry that you should be aware of. Some of these include:
Trespassing on Premises with Firearms Prohibition
It is illegal to trespass on premises where the possession of firearms is illegal and the owner communicates this prohibition. Such communication can be in the form of verbal instructions or through signage posted for every visitor and intruder to see. Violating this law could result in a misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to six months’ imprisonment or a maximum fine of seven hundred and fifty dollars, or both.
Preemption Gun Laws
Wyoming has preemption policies on all gun laws, meaning that state gun laws take precedence over any other laws enacted by local municipalities. The state government reserves the right to regulate the use and possession of firearms within Wyoming.
Brandishing of Firearms
It is illegal to use firearms unlawfully in Wyoming. Pointing a firearm at another person, whether loaded or not, in a way that causes apprehension, violates this law. Exceptions to this rule include the legal use of firearms by law enforcement officers and situations of self-defense.
Use of Firearms Under the Influence of Alcohol
Wyoming’s game and fish statute prohibit the use of firearms for hunting or any other activity while under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.
Open Carry while Hunting
While it is legal to open carry while hunting in Wyoming, it is prohibited to use firearms to take wildlife during bow hunting or in an archery season.
Hunter Harassment Laws
Wyoming has a hunter harassment law that makes it illegal to prevent licensed hunting activities in the state deliberately. This includes interfering with lawful hunting activities or engaging in behavior that endangers wildlife, affecting their behavior to prevent lawful hunting. Disobeying instructions from a peace officer or law enforcement officer ordering you to stop any activity that violates this law is also an offense.
Conclusion
Wyoming’s status as a constitutional carry state allows residents to open carry firearms without obtaining a permit. However, there are certain places where open carry is restricted, such as schools, government buildings, and sports fields. Understanding Wyoming’s gun laws and open carry regulations is essential for responsible gun ownership and possession. Always ensure you follow the state’s laws and regulations regarding firearms to avoid legal complications.
FAQs
Q1: Can I open carry without a permit in Wyoming?
Yes, you can open carry without a permit in Wyoming as it is a constitutional carry state.
Q2: Is Wyoming a concealed carry state?
Yes, Wyoming allows concealed carry, but a permit is not required for open carry.
Q3: Are there any age restrictions for open carry in Wyoming?
Yes, you must be at least 21 years old to open carry in Wyoming.
Q4: Can I carry a loaded firearm in my vehicle in Wyoming?
Yes, you can legally carry a loaded firearm in your private vehicle in Wyoming with the owner’s consent.
Q5: Are there any restrictions on the possession of assault weapons in Wyoming? No, Wyoming does not prohibit the possession of assault weapons as long as you comply with federal regulations.
