Can I Carry a Gun in Ohio?
Ohio is an open-carry state, which means that individuals 21 years or older are allowed to carry a firearm in public without a permit or license, as long as they are not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines to be aware of before deciding to carry a gun in Ohio.
What Are the Basic Requirements?
To carry a gun in Ohio, you must be:
- 21 years or older
- A resident of Ohio
- Not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm (see below for more information on prohibited persons)
- In compliance with all applicable Ohio and federal laws
Prohibited Persons
Under Ohio law, certain individuals are prohibited from possessing a firearm, including:
• Felons: Any person who has been convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing a firearm for a period of 15 years after the completion of their sentence.
• Mental Health: Anyone who has been adjudicated as mentally incompetent or involuntarily committed to a mental institution is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
• Domestic Violence Offenders: Individuals who have been convicted of domestic violence or have a restraining order against them are prohibited from possessing a firearm.
• Illegal Aliens: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible to possess a firearm in Ohio.
How to Carry a Gun in Ohio
In Ohio, you can carry a firearm in the following ways:
• Open Carry: You can carry a gun in plain sight, holstered or in a sleeve, without a permit. However, you must ensure that the gun is secured and not easily accessible.
• Concealed Carry: You can also carry a gun concealed from view, but you will need to obtain a permit from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
Obtaining a Concealed Carry Permit
To obtain a concealed carry permit in Ohio, you must:
• Meet the Requirements: You must meet the basic requirements listed above (21 years or older, resident of Ohio, etc.).
• Complete a Training Course: You must complete a firearms training course approved by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
• Pass a Background Check: You must pass a background check through the FBI and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
• Pay the Fee: You must pay a fee, currently $67, for the permit.
Places Where You Can’t Carry a Gun
While you can carry a gun in Ohio, there are certain places where it is illegal to do so, including:
• School Zones: You cannot carry a gun within 1,000 feet of a school zone.
• Police Stations: You cannot carry a gun into a police station or any other government building.
• Hospitals: You cannot carry a gun into a hospital or any other medical facility.
• Mental Health Facilities: You cannot carry a gun into a mental health facility.
Table: Places Where You Can’t Carry a Gun
| Place | Reason |
|---|---|
| School Zones | Within 1,000 feet of a school zone |
| Police Stations | Government buildings |
| Hospitals | Medical facilities |
| Mental Health Facilities | Mental health facilities |
Additional Considerations
In addition to the places mentioned above, there are other considerations to keep in mind when carrying a gun in Ohio, including:
• Local Ordinances: Some cities and towns may have their own ordinances governing the carrying of firearms.
• Private Property: You should always obtain the permission of the property owner before carrying a gun on private property.
• Self-Defense: Remember that carrying a gun is for self-defense purposes only and should not be used recklessly or in a criminal manner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, carrying a gun in Ohio is legal for individuals 21 years or older who meet the basic requirements and are not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. However, there are certain restrictions and guidelines to be aware of, including prohibited persons, places where you can’t carry a gun, and additional considerations to keep in mind. Remember to always follow the law and use your gun responsibly.
