Utah is a shall-issue state. Permits are issued by the Bureau of Criminal Identification.
There is no permit, background check, or firearms registration required when buying a handgun from a private individual. However, 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, including the Salt Lake County policy enacted in 2019. The law went into effect on July 1, 2022.
As of May 5, 2021, following Governor Cox’s signing of HB 60, 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 (CFP) are still available for those interested in reciprocity to carry in other states. Utah CFPs are issued to residents who are at least 21 years old or 18 for a provisional permit. Non-residents at least 21 years old who hold a permit from their home state may also apply. Certain areas, such as courthouses and secured areas of airports, are off-limits. Concealed carry permits require a firearms familiarity course certified by the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI). With permitless carry, any person 21 years of age or older who can legally possess a firearm may carry a concealed firearm without a license or permit.
Utah follows the Castle Doctrine (referred to as defense of habitation) and has a “stand your ground” law. There is no duty to retreat if deadly force is deemed necessary to prevent a felony from being committed in a location where the individual has a legal right to be.
- An individual is justified in threatening or using force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves or others against the imminent use of unlawful force.
- Deadly force is justified only if the individual reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury to themselves or others due to imminent unlawful force or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony.
- An individual may use non-deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent or stop criminal interference with property that is lawfully in their possession, in the possession of a family member, or that they have a legal duty to protect.
- A person using deadly force in defense of property is presumed to have acted reasonably and to have had a reasonable fear of imminent peril if the trespass or attempted trespass is unlawful, violent, or for the purpose of committing a forcible felony.
- An individual is justified in using force to prevent or terminate unlawful entry or attack upon their habitation. Deadly force is justified if:
- The entry is made in a violent or stealthy manner, and the individual believes it is for the purpose of assaulting or causing personal violence, or
- The entry is for the purpose of committing a felony, and the individual believes force is necessary to prevent the felony.
- An individual may use deadly force to defend persons on real property other than their habitation if:
- They are in lawful possession of the property,
- They reasonably believe the force is necessary to prevent or terminate trespass,
- The trespass involves violence or is for the purpose of committing violence or a forcible felony that poses imminent danger.
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 conceal carry weapons other than handguns in Utah with a concealed carry permit (or under permitless carry if applicable)?
Yes and No. A Utah Concealed Firearm Permit (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.
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm in state and national parks, state and national forests, and WMAs in Utah without a permit. However, carrying in any state or federal buildings is prohibited.
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol in Utah, provided the establishment is not posted against it and you are not under the influence.
An innkeeper in Utah may refuse or deny accommodations, facilities, or privileges to anyone believed to be bringing in potentially dangerous property, including firearms. It is advisable to check with the individual hotel regarding their concealed carry policy.
Yes, you can carry a concealed handgun in a vehicle in Utah with or without a permit if you are 18 years old or older and lawfully possess the firearm. The vehicle must be in your lawful possession, or you must have the consent of the person lawfully in possession of the vehicle.
Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm at roadside rest areas in Utah without a permit.
Utah law generally protects your right to transport or store a firearm in a vehicle on any motor vehicle parking property, subject to limited exceptions. The firearm must be securely locked in the vehicle or a locked container attached to the vehicle, and it must not be in plain view from outside the vehicle. This protection does not apply to school premises, government entities, religious organizations, and certain residential units.
Question: Do you have a duty to inform a police officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Utah?
Answer: There is no duty to inform a law enforcement officer that you're carrying a concealed firearm in Utah.
Question: Is my Utah driver’s license linked to my Utah carry permit?
Answer: 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.
Question: Does Utah have preemption laws related to concealed carry (i.e., does state law supersede local laws regarding the possession of handguns)?
Answer: Yes, the state has preemption of firearms laws in Utah. However, local municipalities may regulate and prevent the discharge of firearms.
Question: Does Utah have a red-flag law?
Answer: Utah does not have a red-flag law.
Question: Does Utah state law define brandishing?
Answer: 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 they engage in fighting or in violent, tumultuous, or threatening behavior.
Question: Does Utah have laws regarding carrying a concealed firearm while using alcohol or controlled substances?
Answer: You cannot carry a concealed firearm while consuming or under the influence (defined as a blood or breath alcohol concentration of .05 grams or greater) or a controlled substance, outside of your residence or the residence of another with their consent. 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.
Question: Does Utah issue concealed carry permits to non-residents?
Answer: Yes. Utah issues concealed carry permits to non-residents from states that recognize Utah permits, provided they have a permit from their home state.
Question: Does Utah allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law?
Answer: No. Utah does not allow the public to access concealed carry registry information through public records law.
Question: 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.
Answer: “No Weapons” signs under Utah gun laws have no force of law unless they are posted in areas specifically mentioned by the law as being off-limits. For example, 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 permit holders. However, a church or organization operating a house of worship may allow exceptions to the prohibition as they see fit. 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. Although the state has preemption, Salt Lake County has established a policy that background checks for private sales must be conducted in the county's three event facilities. On March 24, 2022, the state was given greater control over gun laws, which may affect local policies.
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)
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)
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 (permitless carry, 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)
Louisiana (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)
Moving to Utah and Interested In Applying For A Resident Permit?
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 Utah permit application.
Moving From Utah With A Utah Resident Permit?
If you establish residency in another state, your Utah permit remains valid until it expires, provided you submit an application for a replacement permit in your new state.
An Applicant Must:
- Be at least 21 years old (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 alcohol
- Not have been convicted of any offense involving narcotics or 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 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 questions about your eligibility.
As of May 5, 2021:
- New Resident Permit: $53.25
- Non-resident Permit: $63.25
- Renewal: $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents
- Fees are waived for active duty service members and their spouses
5 years
60 days
Complete your application using the designated form provided by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI).
The application process for non-residents is the same as for residents. You need to complete a firearms-familiarity course with a certified Utah instructor, which can be done 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 with your Utah application. 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.
To update your name or address, 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.
To replace a lost or stolen permit, 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.
Carry In Bars/Restaurants That Serve Alcohol?
Yes, you can carry in restaurants in Utah that serve alcohol, unless posted and provided you are not under the influence.
Carry In My Vehicle Without A Permit/License?
Yes, you can carry in your vehicle without a permit.
Carry In Roadside Rest Areas?
Yes, you can carry in roadside rest areas in Utah.
Carry In State/National Parks, State/National Forests, And WMAs?
Yes, you are allowed to carry in state/national parks, state/national forests, and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in Utah.
Carry In Public Schools With A Permit?
Yes, you can carry in public schools in Utah if you are authorized to possess a firearm under the applicable sections of Utah law.
Carry In 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
You cannot carry in any secure area of these facilities.
Churches, Houses Of Worship, And Private Residences With Posted Notices
You cannot carry in churches, houses of worship, and private residences that have posted notices prohibiting firearms.
Secure Areas Of Airports
You cannot carry in secure areas of airports.
While Under The Influence Of Alcohol Or A Controlled Substance
You cannot carry if you are under the influence of alcohol (with a blood alcohol content of .05 or higher) or a controlled substance.
Any Place Where The Carrying Of Firearms Is Prohibited By Federal Or State Law
You cannot carry in any location where federal or state law or regulation prohibits firearms.
Can I Wear A COVID-19 Protective Mask While Carrying Concealed?
There is no known statute in Utah making it illegal to wear a COVID mask while carrying concealed.
Can I Concealed Carry While Shotgun/Rifle Hunting In Utah?
Yes. Nothing prohibits a person with a valid concealed carry permit engaged in the lawful taking of wildlife from carrying a concealed firearm.
Can I Concealed Carry While Bow Hunting In Utah?
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.
Is There A Hunter Harassment Law In Utah?
Yes. A person is guilty of a class B misdemeanor if they intentionally interfere with the right of a person legally hunting wildlife by driving, harassing, or intentionally disturbing wildlife to disrupt a legal hunt, trapping, or predator control.
What Are The Knife Laws In Utah?
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 openly or concealed carry any type of knife in Utah. Dangerous weapons are prohibited from school grounds and public or private educational institutions.