Massachusetts technically permits open carry with a valid License to Carry, but the practice is rare and discouraged, with municipalities and businesses commonly prohibiting visible firearms.
Open carry is not specifically prohibited by Massachusetts statute when the carrier holds a valid LTC under MGL Chapter 140 Section 131. However, openly displayed firearms can trigger disorderly conduct charges or breach-of-peace concerns, and chiefs may consider repeated incidents in suitability reviews. Most public spaces, businesses, and government buildings prohibit open display, and the cultural norm in Massachusetts is concealed carry only. Long guns generally must be unloaded and cased when transported in public.
Open carry without a valid LTC subjects holders to felony unlicensed-possession charges; alarming display can also lead to disturbing-the-peace prosecution.
Worcester, MA
Worcester enforces quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 7 AM on weekends under the city's Excessive and Unreasonable Noise ordinance. ...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates construction noise under its noise ordinance. Construction activities generating excessive noise are restricted during quiet hours. Permi...
Worcester, MA
Worcester addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance and animal control regulations. Dogs creating persistent noise that disturbs neighbors consti...
Worcester, MA
MGL c. 90, §22C — abandoned vehicles on public ways tagged after 72 hours, may be towed. Worcester Police and DPW enforce. City also has an 'Unregistered Veh...
Worcester, MA
Worcester regulates parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. These vehicles should be stored on private property and are s...
Worcester, MA
Worcester requires vehicles to be parked on approved hard surfaces. Driveway construction or modification requires permits. Vehicles may not be parked on fro...
See how Worcester's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
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