Can I Carry a Gun in New Mexico?
As a prospective gun owner or visitor in New Mexico, it is essential to understand the laws and regulations regarding firearms. New Mexico has specific guidelines for carrying and owning a gun, which are detailed below.
Direct Answer: Can I Carry a Gun in New Mexico?
Yes, you can carry a gun in New Mexico, but there are certain requirements and restrictions that you must adhere to.
Permitted Places for Carrying a Gun in New Mexico
According to New Mexico Revised Statute 30-7-3, the following places are permissible for carrying a gun:
• Residential Property: You can carry a gun on your own or rented residential property, such as a house, apartment, or condo.
• Business or Commercial Premises: With the written permission of the property owner or manager, you can carry a gun on commercial or business premises, including stores, offices, or restaurants.
• Rest Areas and Highway Rest Stops: You can carry a gun in designated rest areas and highway rest stops, but not in areas marked as "No Firearms" or "Private Property."
Restricted Places for Carrying a Gun in New Mexico
There are areas where carrying a gun is strictly prohibited:
• Schools: New Mexico Revised Statute 22-1-4 bans firearms from all public, private, or parochial schools, including classrooms, hallways, school grounds, and school facilities.
• Public or Private Airports: You are prohibited from carrying a gun in all public or private airports, including terminals, concourses, and secured areas.
• Federal Buildings or Courthouses: According to 18 U.S.C. § 930, it is illegal to carry a gun in all federal buildings or courthouses, including post offices, federal courts, and other government buildings.
• Prisons or Jail Facilities: Firearms are prohibited in all correctional facilities, including state and federal prisons, as well as local jails.
• Government Meetings or Events: New Mexico Revised Statute 30-7-3 prohibits carrying a gun at government meetings or events, including town hall meetings, city council meetings, and other government functions.
• National Parks: While some national parks permit firearms, New Mexico state law prohibits carrying a gun in national parks.
Permits and Licenses for Carrying a Gun in New Mexico
There are two types of permits and licenses required for carrying a gun in New Mexico:
• Concealed Carry Permit: Anyone 21 years or older can apply for a Concealed Carry Permit through the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. To qualify, you must:
+ Be a New Mexico resident
+ Pass a background check
+ Complete a firearms safety course
+ Pay a fee (currently $47.50)• Non-Resident Permit: If you are a non-resident, you can apply for a non-resident concealed carry permit through the New Mexico Department of Public Safety. However, you must have a valid concealed carry permit or equivalent from your home state.
Age Restrictions and Prohibitions
Certain individuals are prohibited from owning or carrying a gun in New Mexico:
• Minors: No person under 18 years of age can own or carry a gun, except for licensed hunters or marksmanship instructors.
• Convicted Felons: Persons convicted of a felony offense are prohibited from owning or carrying a gun.
• Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with a diagnosed mental health disorder, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression, may be prohibited from owning or carrying a gun.
• Domestic Abusers: Persons convicted of domestic abuse or stalking are prohibited from owning or carrying a gun.
Other Important Notes
• Transporting Firearms: When transporting firearms, you must:
+ Keep them unloaded
+ In a vehicle or container that is readily accessible to the driver or passenger
+ Locked and covered with a protective covering• Child Access Prevention Law: Failure to store a firearm safely and securely to prevent accidental access by children under 14 years of age can lead to criminal charges.
• Gun Safety Courses: The New Mexico Department of Public Safety offers free online gun safety courses, which are required for obtaining a concealed carry permit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while you can carry a gun in New Mexico, it is essential to understand the legal requirements, restrictions, and prohibitions outlined above. Always ensure you are legally permitted to carry a gun and follow the guidelines and regulations to avoid any potential legal issues or penalties.
