Where Can I Carry My Gun Ohio?
Ohio has specific laws regarding the carrying of firearms, and it’s essential to understand where you can and cannot carry your gun. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of gun laws in Ohio.
Constitutional Carry
Ohio has recently implemented constitutional carry, which means that residents are no longer required to obtain a license to carry a concealed handgun. However, there are still some restrictions and guidelines to follow.
- Who can carry: Anyone who is 21 years old or older, a resident of Ohio, and a U.S. citizen can carry a concealed handgun without a license.
- Where can’t carry: You cannot carry a concealed handgun in the following places:
- Public or private schools
- Public buildings and grounds
- Hospitals and nursing homes
- Prisons and detention centers
- Polling places
- Public recreational areas and facilities
- Airports and commercial airports
- Any location where firearms are prohibited by federal law
- Additional restrictions: You may not carry a concealed handgun if you are:
- Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Currently involved in a domestic violence incident
- Convicted of a felony or a crime of violence
- Under a court-ordered restraining order
Open Carry
Open carry is also legal in Ohio, but there are some restrictions to be aware of.
- Who can carry: Anyone who is 18 years old or older can carry a visible handgun.
- Where can carry: You can carry a visible handgun in most places, including public streets, parks, and buildings. However, you may not carry a visible handgun in the following places:
- Public or private schools
- Public buildings and grounds
- Hospitals and nursing homes
- Prisons and detention centers
- Polling places
- Public recreational areas and facilities
- Airports and commercial airports
- Any location where firearms are prohibited by federal law
- Additional restrictions: You may not carry a visible handgun if you are:
- Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Currently involved in a domestic violence incident
- Convicted of a felony or a crime of violence
- Under a court-ordered restraining order
Permitted Locations
There are some specific locations where carrying a handgun is allowed, even without a license.
- Parking lots: You can carry a handgun in a parking lot, but only if you are in your vehicle and the handgun is not visible.
- Campgrounds: You can carry a handgun in a campground, but only if you are in your campsite and the handgun is not visible.
- Fishing and hunting areas: You can carry a handgun in areas designated for fishing and hunting, but only if you are in a vehicle and the handgun is not visible.
- Farms and agricultural areas: You can carry a handgun on a farm or in an agricultural area, but only if you are engaged in farming or agricultural activities and the handgun is not visible.
Prohibited Locations
There are certain locations where carrying a handgun is strictly prohibited.
- Public schools: You cannot carry a handgun on school property, including schools, school buses, and school-sponsored events.
- Public buildings and grounds: You cannot carry a handgun in public buildings, including government buildings, libraries, and courthouses.
- Hospitals and nursing homes: You cannot carry a handgun in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities.
- Prisons and detention centers: You cannot carry a handgun in prisons, detention centers, or other correctional facilities.
- Polling places: You cannot carry a handgun in polling places or other areas where voting is taking place.
- Public recreational areas and facilities: You cannot carry a handgun in public recreational areas, including parks, beaches, and public pools.
Table: Permitted and Prohibited Locations
| Location | Permitted? |
|---|---|
| Parking lots | Yes |
| Campgrounds | Yes |
| Fishing and hunting areas | Yes |
| Farms and agricultural areas | Yes |
| Public schools | No |
| Public buildings and grounds | No |
| Hospitals and nursing homes | No |
| Prisons and detention centers | No |
| Polling places | No |
| Public recreational areas and facilities | No |
Conclusion
Carrying a handgun in Ohio can be complex, and it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that you are carrying your handgun legally and safely. Remember to always follow the rules and restrictions, and never carry a handgun in a prohibited location.
