Open Carry in District of Columbia
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Open carry of firearms is prohibited; DC bans carrying guns openly in public spaces.
How District of Columbia treats Open Carry
District of Columbia law generally prohibits any person from carrying a firearm openly in public, whether loaded or unloaded. The DC Code restricts firearm possession heavily, and open carry is not a permitted practice within the district's jurisdiction. Residents and visitors cannot legally display firearms openly on streets, in parks, or other public areas. DC maintains some of the strictest gun regulations in the nation, with open carry effectively banned under its comprehensive firearm restrictions.
The general definition of Open Carry
The legal right to carry a firearm openly and visibly in public.
Open carry means carrying a firearm in plain view on your person or in a vehicle in public spaces. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is visible to others. Open carry laws vary widely by state and sometimes by city or county within a state. Some states allow open carry without any permit, while others prohibit it entirely or require a permit even for visible firearms.
Read the full Open Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia.