Is Open Carry Legal in Wyoming?
Woody's answers are based on published federal and state law. Not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
Yes, open carry is legal in Wyoming for adults 21 and older without a permit. Wyoming is a constitutional carry state that allows open carry of handguns and long guns in most public places.
What This Means for You
Wyoming's constitutional carry laws make it one of the most permissive states for firearms carry, eliminating the permit requirement that exists in many other jurisdictions. This legal framework means you can carry your builds openly without navigating complex licensing processes. However, you still need to understand where carry restrictions apply and ensure your builds comply with federal regulations.
The Detail
Wyoming allows open carry of both handguns and long guns for anyone 21 or older who is legally eligible to possess firearms. The state implemented constitutional carry in 2011, removing the permit requirement for open carry that many states maintain. This applies to residents and non-residents alike, making Wyoming particularly friendly for travelers carrying firearms.
While open carry is broadly legal, certain locations remain off-limits under state and federal law. These typically include government buildings, schools, and federal facilities. Some private businesses may also prohibit firearms on their property. Local municipalities cannot create ordinances that are more restrictive than state law regarding firearms carry, which provides consistency across the state.
You should verify current regulations with Wyoming's official resources since firearms laws can change. The Wyoming Attorney General's office and local law enforcement agencies can provide authoritative information about current carry restrictions and prohibited locations. Federal laws still apply regardless of state permissions, particularly regarding interstate transport and carry in federal facilities.
Build Impact
Wyoming's permissive open carry laws give you flexibility in choosing builds for everyday carry without worrying about complex permit requirements. You can focus on practical considerations like comfort and reliability rather than navigating carry restrictions that might limit your options in other states.