Lesson 5: Where Is Carrying a Concealed Handgun Prohibited?

This lesson discusses where you are prohibited from carrying a concealed weapon even though you have a CWL. This is only a guide; always check with the places you are going before you carry your weapon if you are unsure if it is permitted.

Any business or private property posted with signs indicating no firearms or dangerous weapons allowed or a similar statement. Idaho Code 18-3302 (25)

A person shall not carry a concealed weapon in a courthouse, juvenile detention or jail facility, public or private school. Idaho Code 18-3302C

Governing boards of public colleges and universities may prescribe rules and regulations relating to firearms on school grounds. However, the rules cannot prohibit a retired peace officer or a person with an enhanced CWL from lawfully carrying a firearm, except within a student dormitory or residence hall, or within any arena, stadium, amphitheater, auditorium, theater or similar facility with a seating capacity of at least one thousand persons. Idaho Code 18-3309

A person cannot carry a firearm or dangerous weapon in a Federal facility. Federal facilities are defined as buildings, installations, structures, land, public works, equipment, aircraft, vessels, other vehicles, and property owned, constructed or manufactured for leasing to the Federal government. 18 U.S. Code 930

National Forests & Wilderness

Persons who have obtained a valid concealed handgun license may carry their weapon onto National Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management lands unless there is a specific order issued by the local administrator or forest ranger to the contrary. It is your responsibility to check on restrictions where you plan to visit by contacting the local ranger district or land management office. Restrictions are generally put into effect during festivals or large gatherings, or at popular recreation areas where there are safety concerns. Be aware that any Ranger Station or Visitors Center in any National Forest is a Federal Building and it is illegal to be in possession of a firearm while visiting that premise.

National Parks

The Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 provides that a person who legally possesses a firearm under the state law in which the national park is located is authorized to possess the firearm in the park. This includes the carrying of a concealed weapon with a CWL.

It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local and federal firearms laws before entering a park. For example, Yellowstone National Park encompasses parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Each state has different regulations that you need to be aware of, and follow, during your trip.

Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in parks (such as visitor centers, government offices, etc.). These Federal Buildings are marked with signs at all public entrances.

Firearms should not be considered a wildlife protection strategy. Bear spray and other safety precautions are the proven methods for preventing bear and other wildlife interactions.

State Parks and Recreation Lands

IDAPA 26.01.20-600 states it is prohibited to discharge a firearm within any lands administered by the Department of State Parks and Recreation, except in self-defense or during lawful hunting, or exhibitions authorized by the Director.

Indian Reservations

You may not carry concealed on Indian Reservation property, without permission from the tribal government. The firearms rules on Indian Reservations vary greatly. Generally, non-Indians are prohibited from carrying guns on reservations or tribal lands except with the explicit permission of the tribal council.

Airports

49 USC 46505 prohibits you from carrying a firearm or ammunition in or through a federal security checkpoint. Some airports are privately owned facilities and can prohibit the carry of firearms on the property. Be sure to be familiar with any prohibitions at the facility you are visiting.

Reciprocity

The State of Idaho recognizes concealed weapons or handgun licenses issued by other states. Several other states currently recognize Idaho CWL’s. CWL holders should familiarize themselves with the laws pertaining to the reciprocity and the carry of concealed firearms in states where they will be travelling. You can find reciprocity states on the Idaho State Police website at www.isp.idaho.gov.