Vermont Statewide Rule
Vermont Open Carry Permitless Statewide Standards
Key Facts
- Authority: V.s.a.
- Authority: 13 V.S.A. sections 4003 and 4004
- Prohibitions
- No permit for open carry
- Minimum Age
- Minimum age 18 for handguns
- School Courthouse Carry
- School and courthouse carry prohibited
- Local Open Carry
- Local open carry bans preempted
Summary
Vermont permits open carry of firearms without a license for individuals legally allowed to possess firearms, subject to state and federal restrictions.
A person who carries a dangerous or deadly weapon with the intent to injure another shall be imprisoned for not more than two years or fined not more than $2,000.00, or both. It shall be a felony punishable by not more than 10 years of imprisonment or a fine of $25,000.00, or both, if the person intends to injure multiple persons.
Full Breakdown
Open carry is lawful in Vermont for adults aged 18 and over who are not prohibited from firearm possession under state or federal law. Vermont law does not require a permit, license, or registration to openly carry a handgun or long gun in public. State preemption in 24 V.S.A. 2295 prevents municipalities from imposing local open carry bans. Restrictions still apply in schools (13 V.S.A. 4004), state buildings, courthouses, and federal facilities. Brandishing or carrying with intent to injure remains prohibited under 13 V.S.A. 4003.
Violations & Penalties
Open carry in prohibited locations such as schools is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000 and possible imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I openly carry a handgun in Vermont public spaces?
Can a Vermont town pass an open carry ban?
Sources
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