North Carolina allows open carry of firearms in most public spaces without a permit, but there are important restrictions and local rules you need to know.
What Is Open Carry in North Carolina?
Definition: Open carry means carrying a firearm that is visible to the public, such as in a holster on your hip or shoulder.
No Permit Needed: You do not need a permit to openly carry a firearm if you are legally allowed to possess one and are at least 18 years old.
Where Allowed: Open carry is generally permitted in most public places, including roadsides, rest areas, and most outdoor public spaces.
Key Restrictions and Prohibited Locations
Prohibited Areas:
Schools and Educational Property: Open carry is illegal on school property, including colleges and universities.
Government Buildings: Open carry is prohibited in federal buildings (like post offices and Social Security offices) and often in state and local government buildings.
Public Demonstrations: It is illegal to openly carry at organized protests, rallies, parades, or other public demonstrations.
State and National Parks: While concealed carry is allowed with a permit in most state and national parks, open carry may be restricted in certain areas or buildings.
Other Locations: Some counties and municipalities may regulate or prohibit open carry on public property, roads, sidewalks, or alleys.
Private Property:
Private businesses and property owners can prohibit open carry on their premises, and violating these rules may result in trespassing charges.
Local Regulations:
Some towns and cities have additional restrictions. For example, Chapel Hill restricts open carry of small, concealable handguns, and Holly Springs prohibits open carry on town property.
Open Carry in Vehicles
Allowed: You can openly carry a firearm in your vehicle, provided it is clearly visible and not concealed.
Concealed Carry: To carry a concealed firearm in a vehicle, you must have a concealed handgun permit (CHP). Without a permit, the firearm must be either openly displayed or stored in a locked compartment (like a locked glove box or trunk).
Additional Considerations
Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to openly carry a firearm.
Public Perception: While legal, open carry may make some people uncomfortable and can attract attention from law enforcement.
Brandishing: Pointing a firearm at another person, even in jest, is a crime in North Carolina.
Summary Table
| Scenario | Open Carry Allowed? | Notes/Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Public Spaces | Yes (generally) | No permit required; must be 18+ |
| Schools/Educational Property | No | Illegal |
| Government Buildings | No | Illegal in federal, often in state/local |
| Public Demonstrations | No | Illegal |
| State/National Parks | Sometimes (varies) | Check specific park rules |
| Private Property | Only if allowed by owner | Owner can prohibit |
| Vehicles | Yes (must be visible) | No permit required if visible; permit needed if concealed |
Key Takeaways
Open carry is legal in most public places in North Carolina without a permit for those 18 and older.
Open carry is prohibited in schools, government buildings, public demonstrations, and certain other locations.
Local governments and private property owners can impose additional restrictions.
Always check local regulations and respect private property rules.
Understanding these laws will help you stay compliant and avoid legal trouble while exercising your rights in North Carolina.
Sources:
- https://mcminnlogangray.com/open-carry-vs-concealed-carry/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gun_laws_in_North_Carolina
- https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/nc-gun-laws/
- https://www.brentratchford.com/blog/can-you-keep-a-gun-in-your-car-in-north-carolina/