Utah Gun Laws
Constitutional carry. No magazine limit. Castle doctrine and stand your ground.
Last reviewed against official sources on 2026-09-25. Official state source.
Utah allows constitutional carry for adults 21+. The state has both castle doctrine and stand your ground protections. No magazine limits, assault weapon bans, or waiting periods exist.
Key facts
- Concealed Carry: Constitutional carry — no permit required for adults 21+ (Utah Code § 76-11-202)
- Open Carry: Permitted without a permit for adults 21+ (18–20 need a provisional permit to carry loaded on a public street) (Utah Code § 76-11-220)
- Permit to Purchase: Not required
- Assault Weapon Ban: No ban
- Magazine Limit: No limit
- Waiting Period: None
- Universal Background Check: Not required for private sales
- Red Flag Law (ERPO): No state ERPO law
- Castle Doctrine: Yes (Utah Code § 76-2-405)
- Stand Your Ground: Yes (Utah Code § 76-2-402(4)(a))
- Concealed Carry Reciprocity: Honors permits from all other states; visitors 21+ can carry concealed here without one anyway
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to carry in Utah?
No. Utah is a constitutional carry state. Adults 21 and older may carry concealed or openly without a permit.
Does Utah require background checks for private sales?
No. Private firearm sales in Utah do not require a background check.
Does Utah have a waiting period?
No. Utah does not impose a waiting period for firearm purchases.
Does Utah have a red flag law?
No. Utah has not enacted an extreme risk protection order law.
Does Utah recognize concealed carry permits from other states?
Yes. Utah recognizes valid concealed carry permits from any other state. Because Utah is a constitutional carry state, an adult 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm doesn't need a permit — from Utah or elsewhere — to carry concealed here.
Not legal advice. Laws change; verify with official sources.