Wisconsin permits adults at least 18 who are not prohibited persons to openly carry firearms in public without a permit, with statewide preemption blocking local restrictions on lawful open carry.
Wisconsin recognizes open carry as a lawful activity for adults 18 and older who may legally possess a firearm. No license is required for open carry. Restrictions include the federal Gun-Free School Zones Act, which generally prohibits firearms within 1,000 feet of K-12 schools unless the carrier holds a Wisconsin concealed carry license. Open carriers may not bring firearms into courthouses, police stations, secure mental health facilities, beyond airport security, or onto posted private property. Vehicles complicate matters because a firearm placed out of plain view may constitute concealed carry, requiring a CCW license. Section 66.0409 preempts local open-carry restrictions.
Disorderly conduct charges have been used against open carriers acting in alarming ways, though courts have limited that approach when carry alone is peaceful. Carrying in prohibited zones such as schools triggers state and federal penalties up to felony charges.
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa Municipal Code Chapter 7.46 (Noise) within Title 7 prohibits unreasonably loud, disturbing noise that injures the health, peace, or comfort of othe...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa requires pets to be confined by leash, pen, or fence on owner's property. Persistent barking is a nuisance violation under Ch. 7.46. Residents may ...
Wauwatosa, WI
RV and boat storage in Wauwatosa residential areas is regulated by city zoning. Generally one RV permitted on a residential lot with setback requirements. Fr...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa street parking follows local signage and Wisconsin traffic law. No city-wide overnight parking ban unless posted. Snow emergency restrictions apply...
Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa requires vehicles parked on improved surfaces. Front lawn parking prohibited. Driveway modifications require permits.
Wauwatosa, WI
Abandoned vehicles in Wauwatosa are regulated under state law (Wis. Stat. §342.40) and city nuisance ordinances. Inoperable or unlicensed vehicles visible fr...
See how Wauwatosa's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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