South Carolina Open Carry With Permit or Permitless

Act 21 of 2021 first authorized open carry of handguns by individuals holding a Concealed Weapons Permit. The 2024 permitless carry legislation expanded this to eligible adults aged 18 and older without requiring a permit. Open carry remains prohibited in the same sensitive locations applicable to concealed carry, such as schools, courthouses, and posted private property. Local governments cannot adopt inconsistent rules under Section 23-31-510 firearms preemption, ensuring uniform open-carry rights statewide.

Open carry in prohibited areas is a misdemeanor; brandishing or threatening with a firearm carries enhanced penalties.