Open Carry in Washington
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Washington permits open carry without a permit statewide, but cities can restrict it in public parks and certain facilities.
How Washington treats Open Carry
Washington allows open carry of firearms without a permit as a general rule. However, cities and counties may prohibit open carry in public parks, recreation areas, and certain municipal buildings. Some municipalities have enacted local restrictions on open carry in specific locations. State law preempts most local firearm regulations, but allows limited local restrictions in designated public spaces.
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 Washington.