Does TX Law Allow Me to Open Carry on My Own Property?


Open carry has been legal in Texas since 2017. While you will need what's called a license to carry (LTC) to open carry in public, there are some exceptions you should be aware of if you’re a gun owner. Below, we take a look at whether you can open carry-on your own property in Texas.

Private Property

In Texas, you can open carry on your own private property with or without a license to carry. According to Texas Code, "private property" when it comes to firearms includes your own residential property as well as a car, truck, or boat you own. However, handguns in cars and boats must be concealed in Texas.

Texasgunlaws.org defines "your property" as a property you own or property under your control. For instance, if you’re renting a property in Texas that you live on permanently, it would be under your immediate control. Therefore, you would be able to legally open carry on that property.

Also, if you’re in the act of hunting and en route to your property or residence, you can still legally open carry. This can also include your motor vehicle.

Private Land

If you have private land you own that's not your primary residence, you would still be able to open carry in Texas. For example, you might own a cabin or second home. In either case, that land would be your property. Also, if you’re hunting on private land you don’t own but where hunting is permitted or taking place with the consent of the owner, you would be able to open carry. This is because Texas allows handguns to be used for hunting purposes.

Loaded/Unloaded Makes No Difference with Open Carry

Texas law doesn’t distinguish between loaded and unloaded firearms. Therefore, you may open carry an unloaded or loaded firearm on your own private property. However, it's advised that you always treat any firearm as if it's loaded, even when it's not.

Not Everyone Can Open Carry in Texas

In Texas, most individuals under the age of 18 aren’t permitted to open carry under any circumstances. To obtain a license to carry in Texas, you must be 21, unless you’re in the military and actively serving. Also, individuals convicted of certain crimes may not own or carry firearms concealed or openly in public or on private property.

If you’re not sure about the applicable open carry laws in your jurisdiction, don’t hesitate to call on the firearms education pros at LTC Austin. We offer the highest-quality Austin license to carry online classes, and we can answer all your questions about carrying your weapon legally in Texas. Whether you’re looking for LTC proficiency testing or you want to take an LTC online course, call us today at 512-766-3039.

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