North Dakota Open Carry Firearms Rules

Open carry of firearms is generally lawful in North Dakota for adults legally able to possess a firearm. Loaded handguns carried openly between sunset and sunrise require a concealed weapon license under NDCC 62.1-03-01. Long guns may be openly carried in most public spaces, though restrictions apply in posted public buildings, schools, gaming sites, and liquor establishments. Vehicle carry rules treat a firearm carried openly differently than concealed firearms. Because firearms regulation is preempted under NDCC 62.1-01-03, local governments cannot adopt additional open carry bans, though they retain authority to restrict carry in publicly owned buildings.

Carrying a loaded handgun openly at night without a license is a class A misdemeanor under NDCC 62.1-03-01. Open carry in prohibited locations such as schools or gaming sites can result in misdemeanor or felony charges. Possession by ineligible persons remains a felony regardless of whether carry is open or concealed.