Open Carry States At-A-Glance
- Open carry is legal in Washington State for individuals who can legally possess a firearm and follow state restrictions.
- No permit is required for open carry, but licenses are needed for concealed carry or carrying a loaded handgun in a vehicle.
- Firearms are prohibited in certain locations, including schools, courthouses, and some government buildings.
- Carrying a firearm in a threatening or intimidating manner can lead to criminal charges.
- State law largely preempts local firearm bans, but private property owners may restrict firearms.
Related: 2025 Concealed Carry Guide: From Setup To Safe Practice
Open Carry States are few and far between. Among them is Washington State. Travel there and walk around with your AR-15. Just follow the guides listed below so you don’t piss people off or break the law.
by Alden Morris
“Washington State follows British legal tradition, which entails that anything not proscribed as unlawful is lawful, also known as ‘The Rule of Lenity.’ This gives citizens of Washington State (as well as some individuals with temporary living status in Washington State) the right to openly carry their firearm without a concealed weapons permit (CWP). Of course, the individual openly carrying must abide by the current Washington State laws, such as the open carrier must be an adult of a minimum of 21 years of age and must not have any prior felonies or warrants on their record.” [concealedcarry-cw.com]
As well as the individual openly carrying must also follow Federal laws, such as they may not carry their weapon onto Federal property. Certain businesses also have the right to turn down entry and service to individuals openly carrying their firearms. Open carriers carrying their firearm without obtaining a concealed weapons permit must also be sure to unload their weapon and lock it in a hidden case while traveling in a vehicle. Unloading the firearm includes emptying the magazine from the pistol as well as releasing a round from the chamber. Washington State defines ‘loaded’ as allowing individuals the right to carry their firearm with a round chambered and the safety on.
(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)
Last update on 2026-06-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Where can I find official Washington government concealed carry resources?
- Washington State Dept. of Licensing — Concealed Pistol License information
- Forms for pistol licenses and related records — Firearms forms page
- Washington State Patrol — Firearms Background Division
Washington State, in the past few years, has also allowed residents to openly carry their firearms while on National property. It is highly recommended that individuals obtain their concealed weapons permit (CWP); however, in Washington State, it is not required to do so. Open carrying usually involves an individual wearing a holster either on the thigh, waist, or underneath the arms via a shoulder harness without a jacket if the weather permits it. Although open carrying is not commonly seen throughout Washington State, it is most popular in areas where Gun Shows and other National Rifle Association (NRA) meetings are held. As long as the individual is openly carrying in a peaceable manner, the individual is commonly never approached or harassed by others or authorities of any type. However, if an individual does obtain a concealed weapons permit, it is recognized and has reciprocity in States such as Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Utah. Individuals are also encouraged to pay close attention to laws prohibiting firearms or open carry of firearms while using public transportation or traveling through states that might not recognize Washington State concealed weapons permits, nor allow open carry of firearms in general.
Although in light of recent events, the use of firearms has become questionable for many, it is a human right that is given to individuals solely for the purposes of protection. If rights that are freely given are not thoroughly and routinely exercised, then eventually they may become forgotten rather than lost. Rights and individual liberties, such as the freedom to possess a firearm, should be taken with very serious thought and intellect. Proper courses should be taken to understand not only how a weapon works, but the laws and responsibilities that entail while possessing one.
Alden Morris is a professional freelance writer and filmmaker out of the state of Washington. Follow him for tips regarding DIY Living, Survival, and Product Reviews.
- Security, Everywhere You Want It – Store and protect your handguns, passports, sensitive documents, heirlooms, media...
- Heavy Duty and Sturdy – This SnapSafe Lock Box features heavy duty 16-gauge housing and include a 1500 lb. rated cable...
- Ideal for Travel – The metal gun case provides handgun storage and security for concealed carry permit holders...
Last update on 2026-06-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Legal Disclaimer (Washington Open Carry)
This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Firearm laws in Washington State are subject to change, interpretation, and enforcement discretion. Application of the law may vary based on specific circumstances, locations, and individual conduct.
Readers should not rely solely on this information to make legal decisions regarding firearm possession or carry.
Attorney Consultation Recommendation
Before openly carrying a firearm in Washington, you are strongly encouraged to consult with a licensed Washington firearms or criminal defense attorney. A qualified attorney can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation, including location-based restrictions, transportation rules, and interactions with law enforcement.
Primary Legal Source (Authoritative Reference)
-
Washington Revised Code (RCW) Title 9.41 – Firearms
Published by the Washington State Legislature
Key relevant sections include:
- RCW 9.41.050 – Carrying firearms
- RCW 9.41.300 – Weapons prohibited in certain places
- RCW 9.41.270 – Unlawful display of a weapon
These statutes are the controlling legal authority governing open carry in Washington and should be reviewed directly for the most accurate and current requirements.
Last Verified
This article was last reviewed and verified for accuracy as of January 2026, based on a review of the applicable firearm statutes and publicly available guidance in effect within Washington State at the time of publication. Firearm laws and their interpretation are subject to change. Readers are advised to consult official legislative sources or qualified legal counsel to confirm current legal requirements.
So, do you open carry your weapon? Do you want to… and are you ready to up and move to Washington? Or do you feel like we should conceal the goods? Let us know your comments below!
Like our page and interact with us on Facebook.
FAQs About Open Carry in Washington State
Is open carry legal in Washington state?
Yes. Open carry is legal in Washington state for individuals who are legally allowed to possess a firearm. State law generally permits carrying a visible firearm without a license, provided the person is not in a restricted location and is not carrying in a manner intended to intimidate or alarm others.
Do I need a permit to open carry in Washington?
No permit is required to open carry a firearm in Washington. However, a license is required to carry a concealed firearm or to carry a loaded handgun in a vehicle. Open carry must still comply with all state laws, local restrictions, and prohibited-location rules.
Where can I open carry in Washington?
Open carry is generally allowed in public places where firearms are not otherwise prohibited. Restricted locations include courthouses, certain government buildings, schools, and areas where weapons are banned by state law. Private property owners may also prohibit firearms on their premises.
What are the penalties for illegal carry in Washington?
Penalties vary depending on the violation. Carrying a firearm in a prohibited location or carrying in a manner deemed intimidating can result in misdemeanor or felony charges. Consequences may include fines, jail time, and loss of firearm rights, depending on severity and prior offenses.
Can I open carry in Washington State parks or forests?
Yes, open carry is generally allowed in Washington State parks, forests, and outdoor recreation areas, as long as the individual is legally allowed to possess a firearm. However, firearms may be restricted inside specific buildings or facilities located within those areas.
Is open carry allowed in restaurants or bars in Washington?
Open carry may be allowed in restaurants, but carrying firearms into bars or areas primarily devoted to alcohol consumption is restricted. Businesses can also set their own policies and prohibit firearms on private property, regardless of state open carry laws.
Can local cities or counties ban open carry in Washington?
Local governments in Washington are largely preempted from creating their own firearm laws. This means cities and counties generally cannot ban open carry outright. However, they may regulate firearms in limited, specific government-controlled locations as allowed by state law.
Can law enforcement stop me for open carrying a firearm?
Open carrying a firearm alone is not a crime and should not automatically justify a stop. However, law enforcement may intervene if there is reasonable suspicion of criminal activity or if the manner of carry appears threatening, alarming, or violates another applicable law.
Does open carry apply to both handguns and long guns?
Yes. Washington law allows the open carry of both handguns and long guns, provided the person is legally eligible to possess firearms. All general restrictions still apply, including prohibited locations, behavior-based restrictions, and rules related to vehicles and public safety.
