Vermont is known for its permissive approach to knife ownership and carry, but there are important exceptions and nuances every resident and visitor should understand. Here’s a comprehensive guide to your knife rights in Vermont as of 2025.
What Knives Are Legal to Own and Carry?
- General Rule: You may openly or concealed carry almost any type of knife in Vermont, provided you are at least 16 years old and have no criminal intent.
- Automatic (Switchblade) Knives: The only significant restriction is on automatic (switchblade) knives with a blade 3 inches or longer. Possession, sale, or offering for sale of these knives is illegal and can result in up to 90 days in jail or a $100 fine.
- Switchblades Under 3 Inches: Legal to own and carry, both openly and concealed.
- Other Knife Types: Folding knives, fixed blades, balisongs, and most specialty knives are legal, provided you do not intend to use them as a weapon against another person.
Where and How Can You Carry Knives?
| Location/Context | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Places (General) | Yes | Yes | Except switchblades ≥3” blade |
| Schools/School Buses | No | No | Strictly prohibited; severe penalties apply |
| Government Buildings/Courts | No | No | Prohibited |
| Private Property | Yes | Yes | Unless property owner prohibits |
| With Criminal Intent | No | No | Any knife becomes illegal if carried with intent |
- Intent Matters: Carrying a knife with the intent to harm or threaten someone is illegal, regardless of the knife type.
- Age Restrictions: It is illegal to sell or furnish a “dangerous weapon” (including knives) to anyone under 16, except by a parent or guardian.
Local Laws and Preemption
- Statewide Consistency: Vermont law preempts local knife ordinances, meaning cities and towns cannot enact stricter knife laws than the state. This ensures your rights are consistent statewide.
- Historical Note: The Vermont Supreme Court has invalidated local knife restrictions as unconstitutional.
Recent Legislative Developments
- 2025 Update: As of April 2025, Vermont’s legislature is considering bills (S.61 and H.350) to repeal the ban on switchblades with blades 3 inches or longer. The Senate has passed the bill, but it is not yet law. Until enacted, the restriction remains in effect.
Penalties for Violations
- Possession/Sale of Prohibited Switchblades: Up to 90 days in jail and/or a $100 fine.
- Possession on School Grounds: Up to 1 year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Use with Criminal Intent: Severe penalties, including potential felony charges.
Summary Table: Vermont Knife Laws (2025)
| Knife Type | Legal to Own | Open Carry | Concealed Carry | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folding/Fixed Blade | Yes | Yes | Yes | No length limit |
| Switchblade < 3” blade | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Switchblade ≥ 3” blade | No | No | No | Pending repeal legislation |
| On School Grounds | No | No | No | Strictly prohibited |
| With Criminal Intent | No | No | No | Any knife becomes illegal |
Key Takeaways
- Most knives are legal to own and carry, openly or concealed, in Vermont.
- Switchblades with blades 3 inches or longer are currently prohibited, but this may change soon.
- Never carry a knife onto school property, government buildings, or with criminal intent.
- Local governments cannot pass stricter knife laws than the state.
- Always stay updated on pending legislation for the latest changes.
Vermont’s knife laws are among the most straightforward in the country, but understanding the few key restrictions will help you stay compliant and exercise your rights responsibly.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/vermont/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/knife-rights-vermont-knife-law-preemption-switchblade-ban-repeal-bills-introduced/
- https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/vt-gun-laws/
- https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/section/13/085/04013
- https://ravencresttactical.com/vermont-knife-laws/