Open Carry in Wisconsin
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Wisconsin permits open carry without a permit, but concealed carry requires a permit; local restrictions apply in some areas.
How Wisconsin treats Open Carry
Wisconsin allows open carry of firearms without a permit for any person legally permitted to possess a gun. However, concealed carry requires a permit issued by local law enforcement. Cities and towns may prohibit open carry in certain municipal buildings and parks under their control. Private property owners retain the right to restrict open carry on their premises.
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 Wisconsin.