Virginia generally permits open carry of firearms by adults without a permit, though Code 18.2-287.4 restricts certain loaded high-capacity weapons in named public areas of larger localities.
Open carry of handguns and long guns is lawful for non-prohibited adults age 18 and over throughout Virginia, with state preemption under Code 15.2-915 limiting local interference. Code 18.2-287.4 makes it unlawful to carry a loaded semiautomatic rifle or shotgun with a magazine holding more than 20 rounds, or a loaded shotgun with magazine over 7 rounds, on public streets, roads, alleys, sidewalks, or public rights-of-way in cities, certain large counties including Henrico, Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Arlington, and on public property in towns within those counties.
Violating Code 18.2-287.4 is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Open carry in restricted public buildings or events under Code 15.2-915 ordinances is also a Class 1 misdemeanor.
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See how Richmond's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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