Does San Antonio, TX have its own open carry ordinance?

No. San Antonio, TX does not appear to have a local open carry ordinance, Texas state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from TX Penal Code chapter 46.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in San Antonio

San Antonio, TX Firearms: Open Carry (2026)

Few Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Open carry status: Legal, age 21+
Permit needed: None since HB 1927
Required mode: Holstered handgun
Local SA rules: None added

Summary

Texas allows open carry of handguns in a holster for adults 21 and older. House Bill 1927 (2021) removed the License to Carry requirement. Long guns have long been openly carried. San Antonio adds no local rules; only state sensitive-place limits apply.

Sec. 46.02. UNLAWFUL CARRYING WEAPONS. (a) A person commits an offense if the person: (1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly carries on or about his or her person a handgun; (2) at the time of the offense: (A) is younger than 21 years of age; or (B) has been convicted of an offense under Section 22.01(a)(1), 22.05, 22.07, or 42.01(a)(7) or (8) committed in the five-year period preceding the date the instant offense was committed; and (3) is not: (A) on the person's own premises or premises under the person's control; or (B) inside of or directly en route to a motor vehicle or watercraft that is owned by the person or under the person's control.

Source: TX Penal Code chapter 46View official code

Full Breakdown

Open carry of holstered handguns has been legal in Texas since 2016 with a License to Carry, and HB 1927 (2021) extended permitless open carry to most adults 21 and older under Penal Code 46.02. Long guns may be openly carried by adults absent disqualification. In San Antonio, no city ordinance restricts open carry on public sidewalks, in private vehicles, or in most public places. State sensitive-place limits in Penal Code 46.03 and 46.035, including schools, courts, polling places, secure airport zones, and 51-percent alcohol establishments, still apply. Posted private property under Penal Code 30.07 can exclude open carriers. Carrying in a manner calculated to alarm under Penal Code 42.01 disorderly conduct remains a separate offense SAPD can charge.

Violations & Fines

Disorderly conduct by displaying a firearm to alarm under Penal Code 42.01 is a Class B misdemeanor; carrying in posted or prohibited locations is generally a Class A misdemeanor or felony with fines up to four thousand dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I openly carry a holstered handgun on a San Antonio sidewalk?

Yes, if you are 21 or older and not federally prohibited. HB 1927 allows permitless open or concealed carry of holstered handguns. Sensitive places and posted private property remain off-limits.

Is open carry of a rifle allowed near the River Walk?

Generally yes for adults not prohibited from possessing firearms, but displaying it to alarm others can trigger disorderly conduct under Penal Code 42.01. Federal buildings and posted areas still restrict carry.

Sources & Official References

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All San Antonio rules

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