Arkansas Statewide Rule
Arkansas Open Carry of Firearms Rules
Key Facts
- Note
- Open carry generally lawful for qualified adults
- Permit/License
- No local open-carry bans permitted
- Note
- Schools and courthouses remain off-limits
- Note
- Unlawful intent triggers criminal liability
Summary
Arkansas permits open carry of handguns by qualifying adults under state interpretation of Act 746. Local governments cannot restrict open carry beyond state law due to firearms preemption codified at Arkansas Code 14-16-504.
A person commits the offense of carrying a weapon if he or she possesses a handgun, knife, or club on or about his or her person, in a vehicle occupied by him or her, or otherwise readily available for use with a purpose to attempt to unlawfully employ the handgun, knife, or club as a weapon against a person.
Full Breakdown
Arkansas Code 5-73-120 prohibits carrying a handgun with the purpose to attempt to unlawfully employ it against a person. Following Act 746 of 2013, the Attorney General opined that open carry without unlawful intent is generally legal for adults not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms. Local ordinances cannot restrict open carry beyond state law. Restrictions still apply to schools, courthouses, and certain other locations. Long guns are also generally permitted, though brandishing or threatening conduct remains criminal.
Violations & Penalties
Carrying with unlawful purpose is a Class A misdemeanor or higher depending on circumstances; carrying in prohibited locations may be a Class D felony.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to open carry in Arkansas?
Can businesses prohibit open carry on their property?
Sources
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