West Virginia generally permits open carry of firearms by lawful adults without a license, subject to location-based restrictions in state law.
Open carry by adults who are not prohibited persons is generally lawful in West Virginia and has long been recognized in state practice. State preemption under W. Va. Code 8-12-5a bars cities and counties from prohibiting open carry on public streets and sidewalks. Statewide restrictions still apply at courthouses, schools, and other sensitive locations under W. Va. Code 61-7-11a and related provisions. Private property owners and certain government buildings may post against firearms.
Open carry in prohibited locations such as courthouses and schools is a criminal offense under 61-7-11a, generally a misdemeanor with potential jail time.
Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
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Charleston, WV
Charleston hotel guests pay a 6 percent city hotel occupancy tax under W. Va. Code Chapter 7 plus a 6 percent state consumer sales tax, totaling roughly 12 p...
Charleston, WV
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See how Charleston's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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