Open Carry in South Carolina
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
South Carolina allows open carry of handguns and long guns without a permit in most public areas.
How South Carolina treats Open Carry
South Carolina permits open carry of firearms without requiring a license or permit. Handguns and rifles can be carried openly in public spaces, on streets, and in parks. Private property owners and certain facilities like courthouses and schools can prohibit firearms. The state's open carry law is straightforward and permissive, with few statewide restrictions beyond typical sensitive locations.
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 South Carolina.