Open Carry: Arlington vs Fort Worth
How do open carry rules compare between Arlington, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Arlington and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Texas authorizes open carry of holstered handguns statewide for adults 21 and older under Penal Code 46.02 and HB 910 (2015). Long guns may be openly carried subject to disorderly conduct limits. Municipalities cannot impose additional open carry restrictions.
View full Arlington rules →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Texas allows permitless open carry of handguns in shoulder or belt holsters for adults 21 and older. Fort Worth cannot restrict open carry beyond state law except on city property and posted private property.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry Statute | Penal Code 46.02 | - |
| Holster Required | Yes, handguns | Shoulder or belt holster |
| Long Guns | Generally lawful | Allowed if non-alarming manner |
| Local Bans | Preempted | - |
| Authority | - | Texas HB 1927 constitutional carry |
| Posted Signs | - | Sec. 30.07 bars open carry |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Can I open carry a handgun in a Texas city park?
Generally yes if you meet age and eligibility requirements and the handgun is holstered. Cities cannot ban open carry in parks under preemption, though statutory off-limits locations still apply.
Is long gun open carry legal in Texas?
Yes, with no permit required, but carrying a rifle or shotgun in a manner calculated to cause alarm can constitute disorderly conduct under Penal Code 42.01(a)(8).
Can a private business ban open carry?
Yes. Property owners can post a compliant Penal Code 30.07 sign or give verbal notice prohibiting open carry of handguns on their premises.
Fort Worth FAQ
Can I openly carry a handgun in Fort Worth without a permit?
Yes. Adults 21 and older may openly carry handguns in shoulder or belt holsters without a license, provided they are not federally prohibited from possessing firearms.
Are rifles allowed to be openly carried at the Stockyards?
Yes, but carrying a rifle in a manner calculated to cause alarm violates Texas Penal Code Section 42.01 disorderly conduct. Fort Worth Police use discretion in crowded tourist areas.
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