Is Minneapolis Open Carry? Permit Requirements and What You Must Know
Minneapolis requires a permit to carry for both open carry and concealed carry of pistols in public. Unlike constitutional carry states, you cannot legally carry a handgun openly or concealed in Minneapolis without a valid Minnesota permit to carry or recognized out-of-state permit.
Minnesota currently has over 340,000 active carry permits statewide. Understanding these requirements protects you from serious criminal charges.
How Minnesota’s Carry Laws Work in Minneapolis
The Permit Requirement
Both open carry and concealed carry are legal with a Minnesota Permit to Carry a Pistol, as there is no stipulation in the law regarding whether the weapon must be concealed. Under Minnesota Statutes Section 624.714, you must have a permit to carry pistols in public whether openly or concealed.
A “pistol” under Minnesota Statutes Section 624.712 means any firearm designed to be fired with one hand. “Carry” means having a pistol on your person or in your vehicle in a public place.
Getting Your Minnesota Permit
Minnesota gun laws operate on a shall-issue policy—a sheriff has limited discretion to deny a permit only if there is substantial likelihood the applicant would be a danger. Minneapolis residents apply through the Hennepin County Sheriff’s office.
Requirements include:
- Be at least 21 years old (federal court ruling in 2024 struck down age restriction for 18-20 year olds)
- Complete approved firearms training within one year of application
- Pass criminal background check
- Not be prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law
- Demonstrate competence with a pistol
The sheriff must process applications within 30 days under Minnesota law.
Where You Cannot Carry in Minneapolis
Even with a valid permit, Minnesota Statutes Section 609.66 and other laws prohibit carrying in:
- Schools and school grounds
- Courthouses and judicial facilities
- Minneapolis city-owned buildings
- State capitol and legislative buildings
- Private property with proper posting under Minnesota Statutes Section 624.7131
- Federal buildings (18 U.S.C. § 930)
- Establishments serving alcohol (with certain exceptions)
Violating these restrictions leads to criminal charges even with a permit.
What People Get Wrong About Minneapolis Carry Laws
“You Don’t Need a Permit for Open Carry”
This is false. Minnesota’s Permit to Carry law does not require concealment of a firearm—therefore, open carry of a handgun is perfectly legal as long as a person has a valid Permit to Carry and is not in a prohibited place. Both methods require the same permit.
“Minnesota is Constitutional Carry”
Minnesota is not a constitutional carry state. You cannot carry pistols in public without a permit except in very limited situations like on your own property or business premises.
If You Want to Carry in Minneapolis
Steps to Take
First, understand that both open and concealed carry require a valid permit with very limited exceptions. Complete an approved firearms training course that meets Minnesota Department of Public Safety standards before applying.
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements including age, background check clearance, and not being prohibited from possessing firearms. Apply through the Hennepin County Sheriff’s office and provide required documentation.
Know the Restrictions
There are specified locations where carrying a firearm is prohibited, regardless of whether it’s open or concealed, including schools, government buildings, private properties that prohibit weapons, and establishments that serve alcohol.
Respect posted property. Under Minnesota Statutes Section 624.7131, property owners can prohibit firearms with proper signage. Ignoring posted signs can result in trespass charges.
Out-of-State Permits
Check Minnesota Department of Public Safety reciprocity agreements. Minnesota recognizes some out-of-state permits, but not all. Carrying with an unrecognized permit is the same as carrying without any permit—a criminal offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minneapolis an open carry city?
Yes, but only with a valid permit. Minneapolis follows Minnesota state law requiring a permit to carry for both open and concealed carry of pistols in public places.
Do you need a permit to open carry in Minneapolis?
Yes. You need a valid Minnesota permit to carry or recognized out-of-state permit for both open carry and concealed carry in Minneapolis.
What’s the difference between open carry and concealed carry in Minneapolis?
The difference is visibility—open carry means the firearm is visible while concealed carry means it’s hidden. Minnesota law treats both identically and requires the same permit for either method.
Can I carry a gun in my car in Minneapolis without a permit?
No. A loaded handgun in your vehicle’s center console or on your person while driving meets the definition of “carrying” under Minnesota law and requires a permit.
Where can’t you carry a gun in Minneapolis even with a permit?
You cannot carry in schools, courthouses, city-owned buildings, state capitol, posted private property, federal facilities, and other locations specified in Minnesota Statutes Section 609.66.
What happens if I carry without a permit in Minneapolis?
Carrying without a valid permit is a gross misdemeanor or felony depending on circumstances and criminal history, with penalties including jail time and fines.
Last Updated: January 25, 2026
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Minneapolis firearm carry laws and is not legal advice for individual situations.
Need help understanding permit requirements? Contact the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Hennepin County Sheriff’s office, or consult a firearms attorney for guidance on permit applications and carry laws in Minneapolis.
Stay informed, stay protected. — AllAboutLawyer.com
Sources Cited:
- Minnesota Statutes Section 624.714 (Permit to Carry)
- Minnesota Statutes Section 624.712 (Definitions)
- Minnesota Statutes Section 609.66 (Dangerous Weapons)
- Minnesota Statutes Section 624.7131 (Property Owner Posting Rights)
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety [INSERT OFFICIAL SOURCE LINK]
- Hennepin County Sheriff Permit Requirements [INSERT OFFICIAL SOURCE LINK]
- 18 U.S.C. § 930 (Federal Facilities)
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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