Understanding the Legal Landscape of Pocket Knives in North Dakota

North Dakota’s approach to pocket knives is among the most permissive in the United States, but there are still important legal distinctions and restrictions to understand.

Ownership and Possession

Legal to Own: All types of pocket knives—including folding knives, multi-tools, Swiss Army knives, and even switchblades and butterfly knives—are legal to own in North Dakota.
No Statewide Ban: There is no statewide ban on any specific type of knife based on blade characteristics or length for ownership.
Local Ordinances: Despite the permissive state laws, some municipalities may have additional restrictions, so it’s wise to check local regulations.

Carry Laws

Open Carry

Permitted: Open carry of pocket knives is generally allowed in North Dakota, regardless of blade length or type.
No Blade Length Restriction: State law does not specify a maximum blade length for open carry.

Concealed Carry

Restricted for “Dangerous Weapons”: Any knife with a blade of five inches or more is considered a “dangerous weapon” under state law.
Concealed Carry Permit Required: To carry a “dangerous weapon” concealed (including a pocket knife with a blade five inches or longer), you must have a North Dakota concealed firearm and dangerous weapon license or a reciprocal permit from another state.
Exception for Smaller Blades: Concealed carry of a folding pocketknife with a blade of four inches or less is generally allowed, provided you do not intend to use it as a weapon against another person.
Intent Matters: Carrying any knife concealed with the intent to use it as a weapon is illegal (except for the pocketknife exception above).

Restricted Locations

Prohibited Areas: Certain places restrict all knives, such as schools, government buildings, courthouses, airports, prisons, and other secure facilities.
Business Policies: Some businesses prohibit weapons on their premises, and these rules should be respected.

Penalties

Class A Misdemeanor: Illegally carrying a concealed “dangerous weapon” (including a knife with a blade five inches or longer) is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 360 days in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.
Class B Misdemeanor: Other violations, such as possession in restricted locations, may result in a Class B misdemeanor, with up to 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine.

Special Considerations

Age Restrictions: While state law does not specify a minimum age to carry a knife, responsible use is emphasized, and some local ordinances or practical considerations may apply.
Felons: Federal law may restrict felons from possessing certain weapons, including knives that could be considered dangerous.
Switchblades and Butterfly Knives: These are legal to own and carry, but switchblades with a blade five inches or longer are considered “dangerous weapons” and subject to concealed carry restrictions.

Summary Table

Aspect	North Dakota Law/Policy
Ownership	All knives legal
Open Carry	All knives allowed, no blade length restriction
Concealed Carry	Permit needed if blade ≥5 inches; otherwise, allowed
Restricted Areas	Schools, government buildings, airports, prisons, etc.
Penalties	Up to 360 days jail and $3,000 fine (Class A)
Age to Carry	Not specified, but responsible use expected

Key Takeaways

Pocket knives are legal to own and openly carry in North Dakota.
Concealed carry of knives with blades five inches or longer requires a permit.
Switchblades and butterfly knives are legal, but subject to the same rules as other knives.
Always check local ordinances and respect restricted locations and business policies.

North Dakota’s laws are designed to allow responsible knife ownership and use while maintaining public safety.

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