A very common question we hear is if it is legal to openly carry a firearm or other weapon in Wisconsin. Generally speaking, the answer is yes. Trying to understand and get a handle on the gun laws can be a bit tricky, especially if states and the federal government have different or overlapping laws.
Currently, in Wisconsin there is no “law” permitting open carry in Wisconsin. Instead, it is presumed legal but subject to numerous restrictions. The opposite of open carry is carrying concealed. Wisconsin statute 941.23 regulates the concealed carry of weapons, but the statute does not limit an individual’s right to carry a firearm that is not concealed. Please read this article for more information on concealed carry in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Open Carry Gun Laws
The state of Wisconsin is an open carry state, meaning you are legally permitted to carry a loaded weapon in public. Open carry does not require a permit or license to legally do so. A person is considered to be openly carrying a gun if the gun is in plain view while you are in public. If the gun is hidden from ordinary view, then it is considered to be concealed and you must have a permit to legally carry the firearm. You must also be at least 18 years old to openly carry a gun in Wisconsin.
Limitations to Open Carry
There are restrictions on where you can openly carry a firearm in Wisconsin. Certain locations prohibit carrying guns, even if you have a concealed carry license. These locations include:
- Police stations or sheriff's offices;
- Prisons, jails, or correctional facilities;
- Mental health facilities;
- County, state, or federal courthouses;
- Municipal courtrooms, if the court is in session; and
- Any place beyond a security checkpoint in an airport
According to federal law, you are also unable to carry a firearm (whether openly or concealed) on school grounds at any time.
At Jones Law Firm we understand gun laws are complicated. We have with decades of experience and are happy to help with any of your legal needs. Contact us today to set up a free consultation. Please contact us by text or phone at (414) 774-6000 or email at laura@jlfwisconsin.com anytime.
*Any articles in the Libra or posted by Jones Law Firm LLC are not legal advice for a particular client or situation. Further no attorney-client relationship is intended or created with this post.*
