Missouri permits open carry statewide, but RSMo 21.750 lets cities restrict open carry within their limits while exempting valid concealed carry permit holders from those local restrictions.
Open carry of firearms is generally lawful in Missouri for adults who can lawfully possess a firearm. RSMo 21.750 creates a narrow exception to broad firearm preemption, allowing political subdivisions to regulate the open carrying of firearms readily capable of lethal use within their boundaries. However, the same statute prohibits enforcement of any such local open-carry restriction against a person holding a valid Missouri concealed carry permit or a permit recognized under reciprocity. Cities like St. Louis and Kansas City have ordinances restricting open carry of loaded firearms, but those rules cannot be applied to permit holders. Vehicle carry, transport in luggage, and travel between residence and vehicle remain protected statewide.
Violating a valid local open-carry restriction is typically a municipal ordinance violation with fines. Permit holders charged under such ordinances have a statutory defense under RSMo 21.750.
Columbia, MO
Columbia prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towed...
Columbia, MO
Columbia regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new con...
Columbia, MO
Columbia regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Columbia, MO
Columbia requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Columbia, MO
Columbia requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Columbia, MO
Columbia restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisan...
See how Columbia's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.