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.
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, fences 6 feet or less in height may be built on or within property lines without a building permit. Fences over 6 feet require...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County's marine shoreline along Puget Sound and Vashon-Maury Island is regulated under the Shoreline Management Act (RCW 90.58), the King...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, an above-ground pool that can hold water more than 24 inches deep is regulated as a swimming pool under the Washington State R...
King County, WA
In unincorporated King County, a one-story detached storage shed of 200 square feet or less, accessory to a residential or agricultural use, is exempt from a...
King County, WA
Unincorporated King County requires private swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier at least five feet high under K.C.C. 16.70.020, with self-closing/self...
King County, WA
King County Ordinance 18467 (2017) limits county cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, and Washington's Keep Washington Working Act (RCW 10.93.16...
See how King County's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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