Louisiana is among the most permissive states regarding pocket knife ownership and carry. As of August 1, 2024, state law provides clear, uniform regulations that override local ordinances, ensuring consistent rules statewide. Here’s what you need to know:
Legality of Pocket Knives
- Ownership: All types and sizes of pocket knives-including folding knives, Swiss Army-style tools, and automatics-are legal to own in Louisiana.
- Open Carry: There are no restrictions on openly carrying pocket knives, regardless of blade length.
- Concealed Carry: Concealed carry of pocket knives is legal for all types and sizes, including automatics and switchblades. There is no statewide blade length restriction for concealed carry.
- Minors: There are no state-level age restrictions for possessing or carrying pocket knives.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform Law: Effective August 1, 2024, Louisiana’s statewide preemption law means local governments cannot enforce knife ordinances more restrictive than state law. This eliminates confusion and ensures that the same rules apply everywhere in the state.
Restricted Locations
While pocket knives are broadly legal, there are important exceptions:
- Schools: Knives are strictly prohibited on the property of elementary, secondary, and vocational-technical schools, as well as on school buses and at school functions.
- Certain Government Buildings: Some government facilities, particularly in cities like Shreveport, may restrict knife possession.
- Intent to Harm: Carrying any knife with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person is a criminal offense.
Local Ordinances and Preemption
- Preemption Law: As of August 2024, local ordinances that previously restricted knife carry-such as bans on switchblades in Baton Rouge or New Orleans-are overridden by state law. This means you no longer need to worry about differing city or parish knife rules when traveling within Louisiana.
Summary Table: Pocket Knife Laws in Louisiana
| Aspect | Regulation/Status |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Legal for all types and sizes |
| Open Carry | Legal statewide |
| Concealed Carry | Legal statewide, no blade length restriction |
| Age Restrictions | None |
| Restricted Locations | Schools, school buses, school functions, some govt. buildings |
| Statewide Preemption | Yes, effective August 1, 2024 |
| Intent to Harm | Illegal |
Key Takeaways
- Pocket knives are legal to own and carry, openly or concealed, throughout Louisiana.
- State law now overrides local ordinances, ensuring uniform regulations statewide.
- Knives are not allowed on school property or certain government facilities.
- Carrying a knife with unlawful intent remains a crime.
- There are no age restrictions at the state level for pocket knife ownership or carry.
In summary: Louisiana offers broad rights for pocket knife owners, with minimal restrictions outside of schools and certain government buildings. The new statewide preemption ensures you can expect the same rules wherever you are in the state, making Louisiana one of the most knife-friendly states in the country.
Sources:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/louisiana/
- https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/louisiana-knife-laws/
- https://ravencresttactical.com/louisiana-knife-laws/
- https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/louisiana-knife-law-preemption-bill-signed/