Overview of Arizona Open Carry Laws
In Arizona, open carry is generally legal for eligible adults who are not prohibited from possessing firearms. State law allows long guns and handguns to be carried openly without a permit, though rules differ for residents and nonresidents, for handguns versus long guns, and for locations such as schools, airports, and Tribal lands. This guide explains who may open carry, where carry is restricted or prohibited, how state law interacts with federal property and local rules, and what to know about private business rights and Tribal jurisdiction.
Permitless Open Carry for Long Guns
Adults who may legally possess a long gun can openly carry it in most public places without a permit. Arizona law does not require registration of long guns or a license to carry them openly. Open carry of a long gun by a nonresident who is legally eligible under state law is generally permitted, with some exceptions near schools and on certain regulated lands. Carrying long guns in vehicles is typically allowed, subject to local regulations and private property rules.
Arizona Long Gun Open Carry at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age to open carry a long gun | 18 | A.R.S. §13-3101(A)(19) and related provisions |
| Permit required for long guns | No | A.R.S. §13-3101 and official legislative summaries |
| State preemption of local bans | Yes; most local firearm restrictions are preempted | A.R.S. §13-3101 and Attorney General opinions |
| Carry in vehicles | Generally allowed; local rules may apply on tribal or private lands | State statutes and regulatory guidance |
| Carry on public post offices and federal buildings | Restricted under federal law; signage may apply | Federal property regulations |
Permitless Open Carry for Handguns
Open carry of a handgun without a permit is permitted for eligible residents who are at least 18 and who can legally possess a firearm under state and federal law. Nonresidents who may legally possess a handgun in their home state may also open carry in Arizona without an Arizona permit. Arizona recognizes carry permits from states that meet its standards, which can make reciprocal carry lawful for eligible visitors. Private businesses may prohibit handguns, including those openly carried, even if state law does not bar them.
Arizona Handgun Open Carry at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age to open carry a handgun (residents) | 18 | A.R.S. §13-3101(A), A.R.S. §13-3102 |
| Minimum age to open carry a handgun (nonresidents) | 18, must be eligible in home state | AG opinions and statutory comparisons |
| Permit required for handguns | No permit for open carry if eligible; concealed requires permit for residents | A.R.S. §§13-3101, 13-3102, 13-3113 |
| Recognition of out-of-state permits | Only from states Arizona recognizes | A.R.S. §13-3102 and official reciprocity list |
| Carry in vehicles | Generally allowed; check private property and Tribal rules | Statutory provisions and regulatory guidance |
Places Where Open Carry Is Restricted or Prohibited
Even where open carry is generally permitted, specific locations are regulated by state or federal law. These include public schools, school buses, and election polling places; bars and businesses that serve alcohol (depending on local ordinances and circumstances); public or private property where signage prohibits firearms, including many parks and recreation areas; and facilities on federal installations such as airports under federal regulations. Tribal lands may have their own rules, which can differ from state law, and private property owners can prohibit firearms even if state law allows open carry. Carrying in certain government buildings or courthouses is typically prohibited regardless of whether the building is state or federally owned.
Private Property, Signage, and Business Rights
Arizona law recognizes that property owners and lessees may prohibit firearms on their premises. Businesses can post clear signage indicating that firearms are not allowed, and patrons are generally expected to comply. Private entities, including stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, may set their own firearm policies as long as they do not conflict with specific statutory exemptions. Businesses that serve alcohol may adopt firearm restrictions under certain conditions, and local ordinances can affect how these policies are applied. Anyone carrying openly, whether resident or nonresident, should check for posted policies and respect requests to disarm.
Tribal Lands, Federal Property, and Reciprocity Considerations
Open carry on Tribal lands is governed by Tribal laws and regulations, which can differ significantly from Arizona state law; permission from the Tribe and compliance with local rules are required. On federal property, such as military installations or postal facilities, federal rules may restrict open carry regardless of state law. Reciprocity matters for visitors: an Arizona resident with a concealed carry permit may carry concealed in other states that recognize Arizona, but open carry rules are generally set by the laws of the state where you are present. Nonresidents should verify that their home state’s eligibility standards align with Arizona’s expectations before carrying openly here. When in doubt, contact the relevant Tribal office or federal land manager and prefer compliance with local signage and requests.