Missouri protects the right to bear arms under Article I, Section 23 of the state constitution, but this does not mean that everyone may carry a gun, or that you may always carry a gun wherever you like. Missouri requires a license to carry a concealed weapon on (or near) you body, unless you are on your own property. (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.030.4.)
For more information on permitting laws, see Gun Permit Laws in Missouri.
The following sections explain who may not have a gun, and the circumstances or situations when carrying a gun is illegal.
People Who May Not Carry a Gun in Missouri
The following individuals are prohibited from carrying a weapon in Missouri.
- those younger than 21 years old
- non-United States citizens
- non-Missouri residents (unless you are an armed forces member or dependent stationed in Missouri)
- convicted felons
- fugitives from justice
- those convicted of certain specified misdemeanors (including certain convictions having to do with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within the last five years)
- people who have been dishonorably discharged from the armed services
- those who have been involved in documented patterns of behavior that leads the licensing authority to believe that you would be a danger to yourself or others if you were to possess a firearm
- those adjudicated as mentally incompetent in the last five years, or committed to a mental health facility
- people with a protection or restraining order against them
(Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.101.2.)
Situations or Circumstances Where Carrying a Gun is Illegal
It is illegal to carry a concealed firearm without a permit. But even with a permit, it is illegal to carry loaded, concealed weapons in some locations. These include:
- school facilities (including daycares), on school busses, or at school-sponsored events
- places of worship
- polling places on polling days
- establishments that serve alcohol where at least half of the establishment’s revenue is from such sales (like bars and nightclubs, but not most restaurants)
- airports
- riverboats and gambling establishments
- amusement parks and certain large sports stadiums
- public hospitals
- jails, prisons, or other correctional institutes
- police stations or offices
- state or federal government buildings (including courthouses) , and
- private property on which the owner has posted a conspicuous sign prohibiting weapons.
(Mo. Rev. Stat. § 571.107.)
Getting Legal Help
If you have any questions about whether you are allowed to carry a gun in Missouri, or if you are facing charges for a gun violation, consult a qualified criminal defense lawyer.
