Open Carry in Kentucky
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Kentucky allows open carry without a permit for most lawful firearm owners.
How Kentucky treats Open Carry
Kentucky permits open carry of handguns and rifles without a license. The state does not require a permit to carry openly in public spaces. Restrictions apply in courthouses, certain government buildings, and private property where owners prohibit firearms. Some cities may have local ordinances affecting open carry in specific areas.
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 Kentucky.