Simone Lawson
Wisconsin's gun laws are relatively relaxed compared to other US states. The Wisconsin Constitution protects the right to bear arms, and residents can openly carry firearms without a permit, provided they are over 18 and not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law. However, there are some restrictions on open carry, and certain places, such as schools and government buildings, are off-limits. Wisconsin also permits concealed carry, but a license is required. The Wisconsin Department of Justice issues concealed carry licenses to residents and military personnel stationed in the state, provided they meet the criteria. The state also has reciprocity agreements with other states, allowing their residents to carry concealed weapons in Wisconsin if they have a valid permit. While Wisconsin's gun laws are permissive, there are still regulations in place to ensure the safe and responsible use of firearms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Constitutional right to bear arms | The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms in Wisconsin. |
| State constitution | Wisconsin's state constitution affirms the right to bear arms for self-defence, hunting, sport shooting, and state defence. |
| Age requirement | Individuals must be at least 18 years old to own a firearm in Wisconsin. |
| Background checks | Background checks are required for firearm purchases from licensed dealers but not for private sales or transfers. |
| Prohibited individuals | Convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence restraining orders or convictions, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution are prohibited from possessing firearms in Wisconsin. |
| Open carry | Wisconsin allows open carry of firearms without a permit, except in certain places such as schools, police stations, and government buildings. |
| Concealed carry | A permit or license is required for concealed carry in Wisconsin, except for qualified law enforcement officers who can carry under the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA). |
| Reciprocity | Wisconsin has reciprocity agreements with other states for concealed carry permits and will honor permits from states with comparable background check requirements. |
| Training requirements | Proof of training is required for a concealed carry license and can be met through various firearms safety or training courses, military training, or hunter education programs. |
| License validity | A Wisconsin license to carry a concealed weapon is valid for 5 years, and a background check is conducted upon renewal. |
| Vehicle transportation | As of November 1, 2011, it is legal to load and transport a handgun in a vehicle without a license, but the firearm must not be hidden from ordinary observation. |
| School zones | It is a forfeiture (fine) to possess a usable firearm within 1000 feet of a school unless the carrier has a license. |
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What You'll Learn
Wisconsin's state constitution and the Second Amendment
Wisconsin's gun laws are relatively permissive compared to some other states in the US. The Second Amendment to the US Constitution guarantees the right of individuals to keep and bear arms, and Wisconsin's state constitution also affirms the right to bear arms for the defence of oneself and the state. Wisconsin residents have the right to own firearms for lawful purposes, such as self-defence, hunting, and sport shooting.
Wisconsin allows individuals to openly carry firearms without a permit, as long as the person is not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law. Individuals must be at least 18 years old to carry a firearm in Wisconsin, and open carry is permitted in most public places, including parks, streets, and non-restricted areas of buildings. However, there are some restrictions on open carry; for example, it is illegal to openly carry a firearm in police stations, schools, and government buildings. Private property owners can also prohibit open carry on their property, and local governments can restrict it in certain areas. While open carry is legal, it may still draw attention from law enforcement or other individuals, potentially resulting in uncomfortable or dangerous situations.
Carrying a concealed firearm in Wisconsin requires a permit, such as a Wisconsin Concealed Weapons License (CWL). To obtain a CWL, applicants must be 21 or older, have completed a firearms training course, and meet other criteria. Wisconsin will honour permits from states with which it has reciprocity agreements, as well as states that require a background check comparable to the check conducted under Wisconsin law. The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) establishes a list of these states. In addition, the DOJ is authorised to enter into reciprocity agreements with other states regarding licenses or other authorisations to carry concealed weapons.
The Wisconsin Constitution, which has been amended 151 times, outlines the state's framework for governance, including the powers, structure, and limitations of the state government, individual and civil rights, and other matters. A legislatively referred constitutional amendment may be proposed to the voters if approved by a simple majority of both chambers of the Wisconsin State Legislature in two legislative sessions. If an amendment is approved by a majority in one session, it must then be considered by the state legislature chosen at the next general election. Before the second legislative session, the proposed amendment must be published for three months prior to the election. If it is then approved by a simple majority in the second session, it is placed on a statewide ballot, and if approved by a simple majority of the state's electorate, it becomes part of the constitution. Constitutional conventions can also be used to propose amendments to the state's constitution.
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Concealed carry laws
Wisconsin is a
Wisconsin gun laws are relatively permissive compared to some other states in the US. The state allows individuals who are 18 years of age or older to own a firearm, as long as they are not prohibited from possessing one under state or federal law. Minors may also possess firearms with the consent of a parent or guardian and while under their supervision.
To obtain a CCW license in Wisconsin, applicants must be 21 or older, have completed a firearms training course, and meet other criteria. The Wisconsin DOJ is required to maintain a computerized record listing the names and other information about licensees. Law enforcement officers may not request or be provided with this information except for specified purposes. A person who is a law enforcement officer in a state other than Wisconsin may request and be provided with information about a licensee only to confirm that the person is licensed.
Wisconsin has reciprocity agreements with other states regarding concealed carry permits. This means that Wisconsin will honor permits from states with which it has reciprocity agreements, as well as states that require background checks comparable to those conducted under Wisconsin law. Individuals with a valid CCW permit from one of these states may carry a concealed firearm in Wisconsin, provided they are at least 21 years old and not a Wisconsin resident.
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Open carry laws
While Wisconsin allows open carry in most public places, including parks, streets, and non-restricted areas of buildings, there are some restrictions. It is illegal to openly carry a firearm in certain places, such as police stations, schools, and government buildings. Private property owners and local governments also have the right to prohibit or restrict open carry on their property or in certain areas.
It is important to note that while open carry is legal in Wisconsin, it may still attract attention from law enforcement or other individuals, potentially leading to uncomfortable or dangerous situations. Carrying a firearm in a vehicle is also challenging, as the gun must be visible from outside the vehicle. If the gun is not clearly visible, it is considered concealed, which is illegal without a permit.
Wisconsin also has laws in place to ensure the safe and responsible use of firearms. For example, it is illegal to discharge a weapon from a vehicle on a road or in a parking lot towards any person or vehicle. Setting a trap with a firearm is also illegal. Wisconsin law prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence restraining orders, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent or committed to a mental institution.
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Gun laws on public transport
In Wisconsin, individuals are allowed to own and carry firearms for lawful purposes such as self-defence, hunting, and sport shooting. The state's gun laws are relatively permissive compared to other states in the US. Wisconsin is a shall-issue state, meaning that the Department of Justice (DOJ) issues concealed carry weapons (CCW) licenses. While Wisconsin residents have the right to own firearms, there are specific laws and restrictions in place regarding the possession and transportation of firearms on public transport.
Firstly, it is important to note that open carry is generally allowed in Wisconsin for individuals 18 years of age or older, as long as they are not prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal laws. However, open carry is restricted in certain places, such as police stations, schools, and government buildings. Additionally, local governments and private property owners can prohibit open carry in specific areas.
When it comes to public transport, Wisconsin has laws in place that govern the transportation of firearms. The state generally prohibits the transportation of long guns in or on automobiles, all-terrain vehicles, aircraft, and motorboats with the motor running. Long guns must be unloaded and, in some cases, enclosed in a carrying case. Handguns, on the other hand, can be transported in a vehicle without being unloaded or encased, according to recent changes in the law. However, they must not be within reach and cannot be hidden or concealed. This applies to both residents and non-residents of Wisconsin.
It is important to mention that while Wisconsin's gun laws are relatively permissive, they are subject to change and evolution. Additionally, local ordinances and regulations may impose further restrictions on the possession and transportation of firearms on public transport. Therefore, individuals carrying firearms on public transport in Wisconsin should stay informed about the latest laws and regulations to ensure they are in compliance.
In conclusion, while Wisconsin allows the possession and transportation of firearms on public transport under certain conditions, individuals must be aware of the specific restrictions and requirements to avoid legal consequences. It is crucial to stay updated with the latest laws and to adhere to any additional local ordinances that may be in place.
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Gun laws on public property
Wisconsin's gun laws are relatively permissive compared to other states in the US. The state's constitution affirms the right to bear arms for self-defence, hunting, and sport shooting. Wisconsin is a shall-issue state, meaning that concealed carry weapons (CCW) licenses are issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ). While a permit, background check, or firearms registration is not required when buying a handgun from a private individual, licensed dealers must perform a background check.
Open carry is legal for anyone over the age of 18, provided they are not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal laws. Minors may possess firearms with parental consent and under parental supervision. However, it is almost impossible to open carry in a vehicle, as the gun must be visible from outside the vehicle. Carrying a concealed firearm requires a permit, and applicants must be 21 or older, have completed a firearms training course, and meet other criteria. Wisconsin will honour permits from states with which it has reciprocity agreements, as well as states that require comparable background checks.
There are some restrictions on open carry in Wisconsin. For example, it is illegal to openly carry a firearm in police stations, schools, and government buildings. Private property owners and local governments can also prohibit or restrict open carry on their property. Additionally, Wisconsin statute prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence restraining orders or convictions, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent or committed to a mental health institution.
Wisconsin has also enacted a "stand your ground" law, which provides criminal immunity and protection from civil suits for homeowners or business owners who use a gun in self-defence while on their property. This law does not apply if force is used against law enforcement or other public safety workers.
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Frequently asked questions
Wisconsin's state constitution affirms the right to bear arms for the defense of oneself and the state. The Wisconsin Department of Justice issues concealed carry weapons licenses to residents and military personnel stationed in Wisconsin. The state has relatively permissive gun laws compared to others in the U.S. and allows open carry of firearms without a permit for those over 18 years of age. However, there are restrictions on open carry in certain places, and local governments can also impose restrictions.
To obtain a Wisconsin constitutional carry petition, applicants must be 21 or older, have completed a firearms training course, and meet other criteria. The Wisconsin Department of Justice conducts background checks upon renewal of a concealed carry license, but not for private sales and transfers of firearms.
In Wisconsin, it is illegal to possess a firearm within 1000 feet of a school unless the carrier has a license. It is also illegal to discharge a firearm in a school zone. Wisconsin law prohibits certain individuals from possessing firearms, including convicted felons, individuals with domestic violence restraining orders or convictions, and those adjudicated as mentally incompetent.
