Wyoming’s approach to firearm regulation is rooted in a strong affirmation of the right to bear arms, resulting in laws that are generally permissive for gun owners. This legal framework governs who can own, carry, and purchase firearms, as well as the circumstances under which they can be used for self-defense.
Carrying Firearms in Wyoming
Under the state’s constitutional carry provision, any U.S. resident who is at least 21 years old and legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry a concealed weapon without a permit.1Justia. Wyoming Statutes § 6-8-104 (2024) – Wearing or Carrying Concealed Weapons; Penalties; Exceptions; Permits. Open carry is also legal in Wyoming for individuals who are legally permitted to own a firearm.
While a permit is not required for concealed carry within the state, Wyoming continues to issue concealed firearm permits through local sheriff’s offices. These permits are primarily sought by residents who wish to carry concealed firearms in other states that recognize Wyoming’s permit through reciprocity agreements. The application process for this optional permit involves a background check and demonstrating familiarity with a firearm.
Who Can Legally Possess Firearms
W.S. § 6-8-102 prohibits firearm possession by anyone who has previously been convicted of a felony. If the person was convicted of a “violent felony,” such as murder, robbery, or aggravated assault, possessing a firearm is a felony punishable by up to three years in prison and a $5,000 fine.2Justia. Wyoming Statutes § 6-8-102 (2024) – Use or Possession of Firearm by Person Convicted of Certain Felony and Misdemeanor Offenses; Penalties; Exception. For those convicted of a non-violent felony, illegal possession is a misdemeanor, carrying a penalty of up to six months in jail and a $750 fine.
Federal prohibitions disqualify individuals with certain domestic violence convictions. Individuals who have been adjudicated as mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution are also barred from possessing firearms.3Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Identify Prohibited Persons One must be at least 21 to purchase a handgun from a licensed dealer, though long guns can be purchased at 18.4Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Does a customer have to be a certain age to buy firearms or ammunition from a licensee?
Places Where Firearms Are Restricted
Despite Wyoming’s permissive carry laws, state statutes designate several locations where carrying a firearm is prohibited. According to W.S. § 6-8-104, carrying a concealed firearm is illegal in the following places:
- Any detention facility, prison, or jail.
- Courtrooms, although a judge may authorize a person to carry a weapon within their courtroom.
- Law enforcement facilities, which are off-limits without the written consent of the chief administrator.
- K-12 school facilities, school buses, and at most college or university facilities without the institution’s explicit consent.
- Private property where owners have chosen to prohibit firearms.
- The portions of establishments primarily devoted to serving alcohol for on-site consumption.
Rules for Buying Guns
When buying from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL), such as a gun store, federal law mandates a background check. The FFL initiates this check through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which is operated by the FBI. Wyoming does not have a state-level permit requirement to purchase a rifle, shotgun, or handgun.
For private firearm sales between two Wyoming residents, state law does not require a background check for these transactions. However, it remains illegal under federal law to knowingly sell a firearm to a person who is prohibited from possessing one.
Self-Defense with Firearms in Wyoming
Wyoming’s statutes include both a “Castle Doctrine” and “Stand Your Ground” provisions. The Castle Doctrine, under W.S. § 6-2-602, creates a legal presumption that a person unlawfully entering a home intends to commit a violent act. This presumption helps justify using deadly force against an intruder.
The “Stand Your Ground” law removes any duty to retreat before using defensive force in any place a person is lawfully present. An individual can use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm.5Justia. Wyoming Statutes § 6-2-602 (2024) – Use of Force in Self Defense; No Duty to Retreat. A separate statute grants a person who justifiably uses such force immunity from civil lawsuits.6Justia. Wyoming Statutes § 6-1-204 (2024) – Immunity From Civil Action for Justifiable Use of Force; Attorney Fees.