Is Missouri an Open Carry State?
Missouri is one of the 22 states in the United States that allows open carry, which means that individuals are permitted to carry firearms openly in public without a permit or license. However, there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met before open carrying a gun in the state.
What is Open Carry?
Open carry refers to the act of carrying a firearm in a visible manner, such as on the hip, in a holster, or in a shoulder rig. This is different from concealed carry, where the firearm is carried hidden from view.
Is Missouri an Open Carry State?
Yes, Missouri is an open carry state. Missouri Revised Statutes Section 571.101 states that a person may carry a firearm openly in a belt holster or other holster that is worn on the hip or shoulder, or in a rifle or shotgun with a shoulder stock.
Requirements for Open Carry in Missouri
While Missouri does not require a permit to open carry, there are certain requirements that must be met:
- Age: You must be at least 19 years old to open carry in Missouri.
- Residency: You must be a resident of Missouri to open carry in the state.
- Prohibited Persons: Certain individuals are prohibited from open carrying a gun in Missouri, including:
- Convicted felons
- Individuals with a prior conviction for a misdemeanor involving domestic violence
- Individuals who are subject to a restraining order or protection order
- Individuals who are mentally incompetent
- Non-residents of Missouri (except for reciprocity states)
- Restrictions on Certain Areas: Open carry is prohibited in certain areas, including:
- Schools and school buses
- Colleges and universities
- Places of worship
- Public buildings and institutions
- Public parks and playgrounds
- Zoos and aquariums
- Museums
- Theaters and concert halls
- Sports arenas and stadiums
- Public transportation, including buses and trains
Constitutional Carry in Missouri
Missouri has also enacted constitutional carry, which allows individuals to carry firearms without a permit or license. Missouri Senate Bill 567, which went into effect on August 28, 2019, eliminated the need for a permit to carry a concealed or open firearm.
Penalties for Violating Open Carry Laws in Missouri
If you are found guilty of violating Missouri’s open carry laws, you may face penalties, including:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $1,000
- Felony: Up to 4 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
Reciprocity in Missouri
Missouri has reciprocity agreements with several states, which allows residents of those states to open carry in Missouri without a permit. The following states have reciprocity agreements with Missouri:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Wisconsin
Table: Open Carry Laws in Missouri
| Area | Permitted | Prohibited |
|---|---|---|
| Public Places | ||
| Private Property | ||
| Public Transportation | ||
| Schools and School Buses | ||
| Colleges and Universities | ||
| Places of Worship | ||
| Public Buildings and Institutions | ||
| Public Parks and Playgrounds | ||
| Zoos and Aquariums | ||
| Museums | ||
| Theaters and Concert Halls | ||
| Sports Arenas and Stadiums | ||
| Public Transportation |
In conclusion, Missouri is an open carry state, and individuals are permitted to carry firearms openly in public without a permit or license. However, there are certain requirements and restrictions that must be met, including age, residency, and prohibited persons. It is essential to understand and comply with Missouri’s open carry laws to avoid penalties and ensure public safety.
