Houston, TX Firearms: Open Carry (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Texas HB 1927 constitutional carry
- Holster Required
- Shoulder or belt holster
- Long Guns
- Allowed if non-alarming manner
- Posted Signs
- Sec. 30.07 bars open carry
Summary
Texas allows permitless open carry of handguns in shoulder or belt holsters for adults 21 and older. Houston cannot restrict open carry beyond state law except on city property and posted private property.
Sec. 46.02. UNLAWFUL CARRYING WEAPONS. ... (a-1) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun in a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person's control at any time in which: (1) the handgun is in plain view, unless the person is 21 years of age or older or is licensed to carry a handgun under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and the handgun is carried in a holster; or (2) the person is: (A) engaged in criminal activity, other than a Class C misdemeanor that is a violation of a law or ordinance regulating traffic or boating; or (B) prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
Full Breakdown
Since 2016 Texas allowed open carry of handguns with a license, and House Bill 1927 in 2021 made open carry permitless for eligible adults 21 and older. Long guns, including rifles and shotguns, may be openly carried so long as the manner does not alarm others under Texas Penal Code Section 42.01. Handguns must be carried in a shoulder or belt holster. Houston cannot prohibit lawful open carry on public sidewalks or roadways. Private businesses may post Sec. 30.07 signs banning open carry. Open carry remains prohibited in schools, courthouses, polling locations, secured airport zones, racetracks, and bars deriving over 51 percent revenue from alcohol.
Violations & Fines
Improper open carry, carrying without a holster, or carrying in prohibited zones is a Class A misdemeanor under Penal Code Sec. 46.035, punishable by up to $4,000 fine and one year in jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I openly carry a handgun in Houston without a permit?
Are rifles allowed to be openly carried?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas firearms overview
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