Nebraska Open Carry Legal Statewide With Local Limits

Open carry of long guns and handguns by lawful adult possessors is generally permitted under Nebraska law and is not addressed by the Concealed Handgun Permit Act. After LB 77 (2023) broadened firearms preemption in sections 17-556 and 18-1703, cities such as Omaha and Lincoln can no longer enforce ordinances that registered handguns or imposed local carry restrictions stricter than state law. Cities may still regulate firearm discharge within municipal limits and prohibit firearms in posted city-owned buildings. Federal place restrictions and the prohibited locations in Neb. Rev. Stat. 69-2441 still apply. A firearm carried openly in a vehicle is not concealed if visible from outside.

Open carry by a prohibited person, in a prohibited location, or in a manner that is disturbing the peace can result in arrest under sections like 28-1202 (unlawful possession) or 28-1203, ranging from misdemeanor to felony depending on circumstances.