Washington allows open carry of firearms by qualified adults without a permit, with limited statutory restrictions and broad preemption barring most local open carry rules.
Open carry of firearms is generally legal in Washington for adults aged 18 and over who are not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law. No permit is required for open carry of long guns or pistols outside vehicles, although carrying a loaded pistol in a vehicle requires a CPL under RCW 9.41.050. RCW 9.41.290 preempts local regulation, so cities and counties cannot ban open carry in most public places. However, RCW 9.41.305 prohibits open carry of firearms at permitted demonstrations on public property and at the State Capitol. Schools, courts, and other locations under RCW 9.41.300 also restrict open carry.
Unlawful open carry at restricted locations may be a gross misdemeanor or felony depending on location. Carrying a loaded pistol in a vehicle without a CPL is a misdemeanor.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Bellingham, WA
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See how Bellingham's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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