18 Places Where You Can’t Carry a Concealed Weapon

Written By Jill Taylor

Carrying a concealed weapon is highly regulated in many parts of the world. Understanding where these restrictions apply is pretty crucial for anyone who possesses a permit. So, let’s take a look at 18 locations where carrying a concealed weapon is not permitted.

Schools and Educational Institutions

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Bringing a concealed weapon onto school grounds is strictly prohibited, according to Giffords. This includes elementary schools, high schools, colleges, and universities. Such regulations aim to create a safe learning environment for students and staff, and violating these rules can lead to severe penalties, including legal action and the revocation of permits.

Federal Government Buildings

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Federal buildings are completely off-limits for concealed weapons. This means courthouses, post offices, and other properties owned or leased by the federal government. Security measures in these places are as tight as it gets, and they make 100% sure that no unauthorized firearms are brought inside.

State Government Buildings

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Similar to federal buildings, almost all state government facilities have strict no-gun policies. Security personnel will often conduct checks to enforce these rules in places like state capitols, government offices, and other properties under state jurisdiction. Concealed carry permit holders should be aware of these restrictions in order to comply with state laws.

Airports

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Concealed weapons are absolutely not allowed in airport terminals or any part of an airport. This has always been the case, but terrorism in the 21st century very much ramped up measures. Violating these rules can result in severe consequences, including fines and possible imprisonment. All travelers will have to adhere to these regulations for the safety of all.

Public Transportation

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Public transportation systems like buses, trains, and subways ban concealed weapons most of the time. These rules ensure the safety of passengers and staff in densely populated and confined spaces. Individuals must check the specific regulations of their local transportation authority to avoid any legal issues.

Bars and Restaurants Serving Alcohol

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Most states do not allow concealed weapons in establishments that serve alcohol. The mix of firearms and alcohol consumption poses significant safety risks. Patrons and staff in these venues are safeguarded by these regulations. It’s always a good idea to verify the local laws regarding carrying concealed weapons in places serving alcohol.

Courthouses

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Carrying a concealed weapon into a courthouse is forbidden in the majority of states. Courthouses have strict security protocols to maintain order and safety, and visitors will have to pass through metal detectors and have their bags searched. Legal proceedings can become highly charged, so these measures are crucial to prevent any potential incidents.

Sporting Events

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You generally won’t be able to take concealed weapons into any professional and collegiate sporting events. As you can probably expect, large crowds and the potential for high emotions make these venues risky for firearms. Security teams enforce these rules to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.

Hospitals and Medical Facilities

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Hospitals and medical facilities usually ban concealed weapons to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors. These places often deal with high-stress situations and these make firearms a potential hazard. Everybody has to respect these regulations to contribute to the overall safety of healthcare environments.

Places of Worship

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Many places of worship, including churches, mosques, and synagogues, do not allow concealed weapons. These sacred spaces are supposed to be peaceful and secure environments for worshippers. Policies can vary though, so it’s important to check with the specific institution regarding their rules on firearms.

Amusement Parks

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Amusement parks typically prohibit concealed weapons to ensure that people can have fun without the fear of weapons. The large crowds and dynamic environment make these places unsuitable for firearms, so it’s sensible for them to be banned. Park security enforces these regulations strictly, and visitors are advised to leave their weapons at home.

Polling Places

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During elections, polling places are generally off-limits for concealed weapons. This ensures a safe and non-intimidating environment for voters and election workers. Laws governing this restriction vary by state, so it’s essential to be informed about local regulations during election times.

Financial Institutions

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Banks and other financial institutions often ban concealed weapons to prevent potential robberies and ensure customer and staff safety. Security measures in these establishments are designed to deter and manage threats without the presence of firearms. Checking the policies of specific institutions is advisable.

Government Meetings

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Public government meetings, including city council sessions and other official gatherings, usually have strict no-gun policies. These rules help maintain order and ensure the safety of attendees and officials. Security checks at these events are common to enforce these regulations effectively.

Casinos

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Casinos and other gambling establishments often prohibit concealed weapons. The unique environment of these venues, where large sums of money are involved, makes stringent security measures necessary. Visitors should be aware of these rules to avoid any issues while enjoying the facilities.

National Parks

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While some areas within national parks permit firearms, many specific locations within these parks do not. This includes visitor centers, government offices, and certain trails. Regulations can be complex and vary from park to park, so it is crucial to research and understand the specific rules.

Nuclear Power Plants

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Nuclear power plants have stringent security measures, including a ban on concealed weapons. The sensitive nature of these facilities requires maximum safety protocols to prevent any potential threats. Visitors and employees must adhere to these regulations to ensure the security and safety of the plant.

Certain States

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As well as the fact that particular environments ban concealed weapons, it’s important to remember that certain states require a license for the carry while others don’t. Other places, such as American Samoa, have banned the concealed carrying of weapons altogether.

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