Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Legal information provided is for reference and not legal advice. Consult an attorney for specific legal concerns.
Utah is a shall-issue state, meaning that permits for carrying concealed firearms are issued by the Bureau of Criminal Identification. When buying a handgun from a private individual, no permit, background check, or firearms registration is required. Although the state has preemption, Salt Lake County has established a policy requiring background checks for private sales at the county’s three event facilities: Salt Palace Convention Center, Mountain America Expo Center, and Salt Lake County Equestrian Park.
On March 24, 2022, Governor Spencer Cox signed SB 115 into law, giving the state greater control over gun laws in Utah. This law allows the state to override policies established by local authorities, such as the policy set by Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson in 2019. The law took effect on July 1, 2022.
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As of May 5, 2021, following the signing of HB 60 by Governor Cox, both open carry and concealed carry of a loaded firearm are legal for individuals at least 21 years old who can lawfully possess a firearm. Utah Concealed Firearm Permits (CFPs) are still available for those seeking reciprocity to carry in other states. Utah CFPs can be issued to residents aged 21 or older, or 18 for a provisional permit. Non-residents aged 21 or older who have a permit from their home state may also apply. Certain areas, including courthouses and secured areas of airports, are off-limits for carrying firearms. Obtaining a concealed carry permit requires completing a firearms familiarity course certified by the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). Since Utah has permitless carry, anyone aged 21 and older who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license or permit.
Utah is a Castle Doctrine state, also known as a state with a “defense of habitation” law, and has a “stand your ground” law. This means there is no duty to retreat if a person believes deadly force is necessary to prevent a felony in any place where they have a legal right to be.
An individual is justified in threatening or using force when they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves or another person against the imminent use of unlawful force. Deadly force is justified only if the individual believes it is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury to themselves or another person, or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.
A person is justified in using non-deadly force to prevent or terminate another person’s criminal interference with real or personal property that is:
- Lawfully in the person’s possession,
- Lawfully in the possession of a member of the person’s immediate family, or
- Belonging to someone whose property the person has a legal duty to protect.
Individuals using deadly force in defense of personal or real property are presumed to have acted reasonably and with a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury if the trespass or attempted trespass is unlawful and is made or attempted with force, or in a violent and tumultuous manner, or for the purpose of committing a forcible felony.
A person is justified in using force to prevent or terminate another’s unlawful entry into or attack upon their habitation. Deadly force is justified if:
- The entry is made or attempted in a violent and tumultuous manner, surreptitiously, or by stealth, and the person reasonably believes the entry is for the purpose of assaulting or offering personal violence to anyone in the habitation.
- The person reasonably believes the entry is for the purpose of committing a felony in the habitation and that force is necessary to prevent the felony.
Deadly force is justified in defense of persons on real property if:
- The person is in lawful possession of the property,
- The person reasonably believes force is necessary to prevent or terminate a trespass,
- The trespass is made or attempted by force or in a violent and tumultuous manner,
- The person reasonably believes the trespass is for the purpose of committing violence or a forcible felony that poses imminent peril of death or serious bodily injury to someone on the property.
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Does Utah allow permitless carry?
Yes. Permitless carry took effect on May 5, 2021, for any individual 21 years old or older who may lawfully possess a firearm.
Is open carry permitted in Utah?
Yes. Permitless carry took effect on May 5, 2021, for any individual 21 years old or older who may lawfully possess a firearm.
If Utah requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm, how are those permits issued?
Utah issues permits on a shall-issue basis.
What is the minimum age in Utah to get a concealed carry permit?
You must be at least 18 years old for a provisional permit in Utah.
Can you concealed carry weapons other than handguns in Utah with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
Yes and No. A Utah CFP allows the holder to carry firearms specifically, although other weapons may be legal to carry in the state.
Is it legal to own a taser or stun gun in Utah?
Yes. Stun guns and Tasers are legal to purchase and possess without a permit.
Is it legal to buy or use chemical spray/pepper spray in Utah?
Yes. There is no statute prohibiting the purchase or use of pepper spray in Utah.
Does Utah have magazine capacity restrictions for handguns?
No. There are no magazine capacity restrictions for handguns in Utah.
Does Utah have ammunition restrictions?
No. Utah does not have ammunition restrictions.
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Can you carry a concealed firearm in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Utah?
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm without a permit, although not in any state or Federal buildings.
Yes, unless posted and provided you are not under the influence.
An innkeeper may refuse or deny accommodations, facilities, or privileges to any person who is in the reasonable belief of the innkeeper, bringing in property that may be dangerous to other persons, including firearms or explosives. It is recommended to contact the individual hotel to inquire about its concealed carry policy. Refer to Utah Code § 29–2–103(1)(a)(v).
Yes, you can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle with a permit or without a permit for any individual 18 years old or older, who may lawfully possess a firearm, provided the vehicle is in the person’s lawful possession or the person is carrying the loaded firearm in a vehicle with the consent of the person lawfully in possession of the vehicle. Refer to Utah Crim. Code § 76–10–505(1) and 76–10–523(3).
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas without a permit.
Yes, Utah law generally prevents individuals from enforcing restrictions on an individual’s ability to transport or store a firearm in a vehicle on any property designated for motor vehicle parking, if:
- The individual is legally permitted to transport, possess, purchase, receive, transfer, or store the firearm.
- The firearm is locked securely in the motor vehicle or in a locked container attached to the motor vehicle while the motor vehicle is not occupied.
- The firearm is not in plain view from the outside of the motor vehicle.
This rule does not apply to school premises, government entities, religious organizations, and certain residential units. Refer to Utah Crim. Code § 34–45–103.
Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Utah?
- There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you’re carrying a concealed firearm in Utah.
Is my Utah driver’s license linked to my Utah carry permit?
- Yes. Your Utah driver’s license is linked to your Utah concealed firearm permit. Therefore, a law enforcement officer will be notified immediately that you are a concealed carry permit holder if they run your driver’s license.
Does Utah have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., Does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
- Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Utah; however, local municipalities may regulate and prevent the discharge of firearms.
- On March 24, 2022, Gov. Spencer Cox signed SB 115 into law, giving the state greater control over gun laws in Utah. The law will go into effect on July 1, 2022.
Does Utah have a red-flag law?
- Utah does not have a red-flag law.
Does Utah state law define brandishing?
- No definition of brandishing was found in Utah law. However, it is illegal to draw or exhibit a dangerous weapon in the presence of two or more persons in an angry and threatening manner. The possession of a dangerous weapon, whether visible or concealed, without additional behavior does not constitute threatening.
- A person is guilty of disorderly conduct if the person engages in fighting or in violent, tumultuous, or threatening behavior.
Does Utah have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
- Not while consuming or under the influence (defined as blood or breath alcohol concentration of .05 grams or greater) or a controlled substance, outside of the person’s residence or the residence of another with the consent of the individual who is lawfully in possession.
- As a responsibly armed American, it is unwise to carry while under the influence of any substance that could impair your judgment, slow your reaction times, or impact your decision-making abilities. Any decision you make while carrying a firearm could have life-altering consequences.
Does Utah issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
- Yes. Utah issues concealed carry permits to non-residents from states that recognize Utah permits, provided they have a permit from their home state.
Does Utah allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
- No. Utah does not allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law.
Are “No Weapons Allowed” signs enforced in Utah? If yes, violating the sign would be considered a crime. If no, violating the sign would not be considered a criminal offense.
- Yes/No. “No Weapons” signs under Utah gun laws have no force of law unless they are posted in areas that are mentioned by the law as being off-limits. The law specifically mentions that if places of worship and private residences have posted a “No Weapons” sign, it is illegal to enter. This prohibition applies equally to concealed weapons permittees. However, a church or organization operating a house of worship may allow exceptions to the prohibition as the church or organization considers advisable. Owners may not restrict a renter or lessee from lawfully possessing a firearm in the residence. A violation of this section is an infraction.
Yes. A permit is not required for anyone legally entitled to carry a firearm to carry a handgun in or on a person’s residence, property, or a business under the person’s control.
Does my current Utah concealed carry permit exempt me from needing a background check when I purchase a firearm?
Yes.
No. Private firearms transfers are not subject to a background check requirement, although federal and state purchaser prohibitions, including age restrictions, still apply. It is recommended that you retain any sales receipts to prove ownership of the gun. Note: Salt Lake County has established a policy requiring background checks for private sales conducted in the county’s three event facilities (Salt Palace Convention Center, Mountain America Expo Center, and Salt Lake County Equestrian Park).
No. There is no waiting period after purchasing a handgun in Utah.
No. You do not need to register your handgun in Utah.
You must be at least 18 years old to possess and transport a firearm in Utah.
No. You do not need a permit to purchase a handgun in Utah.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
California (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Connecticut (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Delaware (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
District of Columbia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Hawaii (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Illinois (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maryland (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Massachusetts (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Minnesota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nebraska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Nevada (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Jersey (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Mexico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New York City (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oregon (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Puerto Rico (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Rhode Island (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Washington (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
The state of Utah will honor all other state or county permits. The minimum age is 21 years old.
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Delaware
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nevada
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Carolina
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Note: Firearms must be carried in accordance with the laws of the state you are visiting. Be sure to check the laws of the other state before traveling there with your firearms.
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Colorado (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Louisiana (at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Michigan (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Pennsylvania (at least 21 years old and resident permits only)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Virginia (at least 21 years old)
Washington (regular [not provisional] permits only)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wisconsin (at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Alabama (permitless carry, at least 19 years old)
Alaska (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arizona (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Arkansas (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Florida (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Georgia (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Idaho (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Indiana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Iowa (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kansas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Kentucky (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Maine (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Mississippi (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Missouri (permitless carry, at least 19 years old, 18 for military)
Montana (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Nebraska (Permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
New Hampshire (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
North Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Ohio (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Oklahoma (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
South Carolina (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
South Dakota (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Tennessee (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
Texas (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Vermont (permitless carry, at least 18 years old)
West Virginia (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
Wyoming (permitless carry, at least 21 years old)
*PC-18 = permitless carry if at least 18 years old
*PC-21 = permitless carry if at least 21 years old
Permitless carry includes constitutional carry states as well as states where an individual must meet certain qualifications, e.g., no DUIs in the last 10 years, in order to legally carry (Tennessee). Each state determines the requirements and any limitations on the carry of firearms. Check each state’s page for more information and any restrictions that may apply.
Q: Moving to Utah and interested in applying for a resident permit? How soon can you apply?
A: Utah issues resident and non-resident permits, so you can apply for your permit at any time. If you live in a state that recognizes the validity of the Utah Concealed Firearm Permit (CFP) or has reciprocity with Utah, you must obtain a concealed carry permit from your home state and submit a copy of it with your application for a Utah permit.
Q: Moving from Utah and have a Utah resident permit? Does that permit transfer to your new state? Is there a grace period during which your Utah permit remains valid?
A: If a person with a Utah concealed firearm permit establishes residency in another state, the permit is valid until it expires provided he or she submits the application for a replacement.
Q: What are the requirements to apply for a concealed carry permit in Utah?
A: An applicant must:
- Be at least 21 years of age (or 18 for a provisional permit).
- Provide proof of good character.
- Complete a firearms-familiarity course certified by BCI.
- Not have been convicted of a felony.
- Not have been convicted of any crime of violence.
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving the use of alcohol.
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving the unlawful use of narcotics or other controlled substances.
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving moral turpitude.
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving domestic violence.
- Not have been adjudicated by a court of a state or of the United States as mentally incompetent, unless the adjudication has been withdrawn or reversed.
- Be qualified to purchase and possess a firearm.
- Meet federal law requirements.
Consult with an attorney if you have any questions about your eligibility. If you don’t have an attorney, you can find one by contacting the State Bar of Utah.
Q: What are the fees for obtaining a concealed carry permit in Utah?
A: As of May 5, 2021:
- New Resident Permit: $53.25
- Non-resident Permit: $63.25
- Renewal: $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents, although fees are waived for active duty service members and their spouses.
Q: How long is a Utah concealed carry permit valid for?
A: 5 years.
Q: How long does it take to process a concealed carry permit application in Utah?
A: 60 days.
Q: Where can I find the application for a Utah concealed carry permit?
A: The application can be found on the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) website.
Q: What is the application process for non-residents?
A: The application process for non-residents is exactly the same as for residents. You will need to complete a firearms-familiarity course with a certified Utah instructor. There is no need to travel to Utah, as these courses are widely available in other states. If you reside in a state that recognizes the validity of the Utah CFP, you must obtain a CFP or CCW from your home state and submit a copy of it with your application for a Utah permit. If you are 18–20 years old and live in a state where the minimum age is 21, you can apply for a Utah provisional CFP.
Q: How do I update my name or address on my Utah concealed carry permit?
A: You will need to complete an application for replacement, have it notarized, and provide a copy of your driver’s license. A replacement fee of $10 will be charged.
Q: What should I do if my Utah concealed carry permit is lost or stolen?
A: You will need to complete an application for replacement, have it notarized, and provide a copy of your driver’s license. A replacement fee of $10 will be charged.
Q: What is the first step in applying for a concealed carry permit in Utah?
A: Complete a firearms-familiarity course certified by the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI).
Q: Where can I find the application for a concealed carry permit in Utah?
A: Download and complete the application from the BCI website.
Q: How do I get my fingerprints taken for the concealed carry permit application?
A: Have fingerprints taken at the BCI or through your local law enforcement agency.
Q: What type of photograph is required for the concealed carry permit application?
A: Have a passport-quality photograph taken at the BCI or another provider.
Q: What documents and items must be submitted with the completed application for a concealed carry permit in Utah?
A: Submit your completed application through the mail or in person to the BCI along with the following:
- Photocopy of driver’s license.
- Passport-quality photograph.
- If you reside in a state that recognizes the validity of the Utah CFP or has reciprocity with Utah, you must obtain a CFP or CCW from your home state and submit a copy of it. This does not apply if your state does not recognize the Utah permit.
- Fingerprint card.
- Weapon-familiarity certificate.
Submit to: Bureau of Criminal Identification
3888 West 5400 South
Salt Lake City, Utah 84129
Q: How will I know if my concealed carry permit application has been approved?
A: You will be notified by mail if your application has been approved.
Q: What are provisional concealed firearms permits, and who is eligible?
A: Utah issues provisional concealed firearms permits to residents and non-residents who are 18–20 years old. The requirements for the Provisional CFP are the same as the standard CFP, and the same application is used by applicants for either permit. Provisional CFPs expire on the holder’s 21st birthday. To change over to a standard permit after age 21, a complete application, photo, and fees must be submitted. The Provisional CFP does not allow the holder to carry in primary and secondary schools per UCA 53–5–710(2).
Utah requires that training be attended in person and not through electronic means. General familiarity with the types of firearms to be concealed includes training in:
- The safe loading, unloading, storage, and carrying of the types of firearms to be concealed.
- Current laws defining lawful use of a firearm by a private citizen, including lawful self-defense, use of force by a private citizen, use of deadly force, transportation, and concealment.
An applicant may satisfy the general familiarity requirement by one of the following:
- Completion of a course of instruction conducted by a firearms training organization approved by the BCI.
- Certification of general familiarity by a person who has been certified by the bureau.
- Equivalent experience with a firearm through participation in an organized shooting competition, law enforcement, or military service. However, as of January 21, 2020, the BCI has yet to see anyone with this “equivalent experience.”
- Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol: Yes, you can carry in restaurants in Utah that serve alcohol, unless posted otherwise and provided you are not under the influence.
- In My Vehicle Without a Permit/License: Yes, you can carry without a permit.
- Roadside Rest Areas: Yes, you can carry in roadside rest areas in Utah.
- State/National Parks, State/National Forests, and WMAs: Yes, you are allowed to carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and WMAs in Utah.
- Public Schools With a Permit: Yes, you can carry in public schools in Utah if you are authorized to possess a firearm as provided under Utah law.
- Places of Worship: There is no state statute prohibiting concealed carry in places of worship. However, since places of worship are private property, they may post signs prohibiting firearms.
- Secure Areas in Correctional, Law Enforcement, Courthouse, and Mental Health Facilities: These areas are off-limits even with a permit/license.
- Churches, Houses of Worship, and Private Residences: These locations are off-limits if they have given notice that firearms are prohibited.
- Secure Areas of Airports: These areas are off-limits.
- Under the Influence: You cannot carry a firearm anywhere if you are under the influence of alcohol (.05 blood alcohol content) or a controlled substance.
- Prohibited by Federal or State Law: Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law or state law or regulation is off-limits.
Question: I can legally carry a concealed firearm in Utah, but can I wear a COVID-19 protective mask while carrying concealed?
Answer: There is no known statute in Utah making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
Question: Can you concealed carry while shotgun/rifle hunting in Utah?
Answer: Yes. Nothing prohibits a person with a valid concealed carry permit engaged in the lawful taking of wildlife from carrying a concealed firearm. [Utah Crim. Code 76–10–504(5)]
Question: Can you concealed carry while bow hunting in Utah?
Answer: Yes. A person with a valid concealed carry permit who has obtained an archery permit for a big game hunt may carry a concealed weapon provided the person is not utilizing the concealed firearm to hunt or take protected wildlife. [Utah Admin Rule R657–5–11]
Question: Is there a Hunter Harassment Law in Utah?
Answer: Yes. A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor who intentionally interferes with the right of a person licensed and legally hunting to take wildlife by driving, harassing, or intentionally disturbing any species of wildlife for the purpose of disrupting a legal hunt, trapping, or predator control. [Utah Crim. Code 23–20–29]
Question: What are the knife laws in Utah?
Answer: It is legal for anyone who has never been convicted of a crime, adjudged delinquent or mentally ill, dishonorably discharged from the military, or who does not possess or use illegal drugs, to own and open or concealed carry any type of knife in Utah. Dangerous weapons are prohibited from school grounds and from public or private elementary through public or private institutions of higher education. [Utah Code Ann. §§ 76–10–501(6), 76–10–503, and 76–10–505.5]
