Utah Open Carry Rules and Local Preemption

Open carry of an unloaded firearm has long been lawful in Utah for persons not otherwise prohibited from possession. With the 2021 permitless carry expansion, adults 21 or older may also carry loaded firearms openly without a permit, subject to state restrictions on locations such as schools, secure court areas, and airport sterile zones. Local governments may not enact ordinances restricting lawful open carry due to firearm preemption under Section 53-5a-102. Brandishing or threatening conduct remains chargeable under separate criminal statutes regardless of carry status.

Open carry in prohibited locations or in a manner causing alarm may be charged under threatening, disorderly conduct, or weapons offense statutes.