Firearms and Weapons on Campus
Utah Code Ann. § 53-5a-102.2 allows an individual who is 21 years of age or older to carry a concealed dangerous weapon at an institution of higher education without a concealed firearm permit. Individuals between the ages of 18 and 20 must possess a Utah-issued provisional concealed firearm permit or a valid concealed firearm permit issued by another state.
Individuals who possess a provisional, temporary, or regular concealed firearm permit issued by Utah or another state may also lawfully carry a concealed firearm on campus.
Please note that Utah law prohibits carrying a firearm, in any manner, on or about the premises of a public or private elementary school. This includes WSU’s Charter Academy, preschool and daycare programs.
Individuals who are 21 years of age or older and who do not possess a concealed firearm permit may not open carry a firearm in any manner on the campus of an institution of higher education unless they are lawfully responding to an active threat, as provided in Utah Code Ann. § 76-11-205.5. On-duty, local, state, and federal law enforcement officers are permitted to open carry when performing their official duties.
Utah law also allows institutions of higher education to adopt housing policies that permit students living in on-campus housing to request roommates who do not possess firearms in the residence.
If you have concerns regarding public safety or firearms on campus, please contact the WSU Department of Public Safety at 801-626-6460.
Frequently Asked Questions About Firearms on Campus
Who may carry a concealed firearm on University property?
Individuals who are 21 years of age or older, and who are not otherwise prohibited by law from possessing a firearm, may carry a concealed firearm on campus with or without a concealed firearm permit, as authorized by Utah Code Ann. § 53-5a-102.2.
Individuals who are between the ages of 18 and 20, and who are not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm, may carry a concealed firearm on campus if they possess a Utah-issued provisional concealed firearm permit or a valid concealed firearm permit issued by another state. Utah Code Ann. §§ 53-5a-102.2 and 76-11-202.
May an individual openly carry a firearm on campus?
Generally, no. Most individuals may openly carry a firearm on campus only when lawfully responding to an active threat, as provided in Utah Code Ann. § 76-11-205.5.
On-duty local, state, and federal law enforcement officers may openly carry firearms while performing their official duties.
Are there locations on campus where firearms are prohibited?
Yes. Firearms are prohibited in designated secure areas established in accordance with Utah Code Ann. §§ 53H-3-902(5) and 76-8-311.1(2)(b).
May a student possess a firearm in their residence hall room?
Yes. Utah law permits a resident who is 18 years of age or older to possess a firearm in their residence hall room. Utah Code Ann. § 53-5a-102.3.
Students who do not wish to share a room with another student who possesses a firearm may request a room change through University Housing.
May an individual possess a firearm in their personal vehicle while on campus?
Yes. Utah law allows an individual to possess a firearm inside their personal vehicle while the vehicle is lawfully under their control. Utah Code Ann. § 76-11-205.5.
May I openly carry a firearm on campus if I have a concealed firearm permit?
No. Open carry is generally prohibited on campus.
However, an individual who may lawfully carry a concealed firearm does not violate the open carry restrictions under the following circumstances:
- The individual is lawfully responding to an active threat;
- The individual is at their residence;
- The open carry has been approved by the appropriate University administrator as permitted by law; or
- The individual is openly carrying the firearm inside their personal vehicle while the vehicle is lawfully under their control.
What should I do if I have concerns about firearms on campus?
Community members who have concerns regarding Utah's firearms laws are encouraged to contact their elected legislators to raise their concerns and express opinions.
If your concern involves an immediate safety issue or suspicious behavior on campus, contact the WSU Police Department (emergency: 911, non-emergency 801-626-6460).
What should I do if someone is openly carrying a firearm in my classroom or workplace?
If you observe someone openly carrying a firearm on campus and believe they may be violating the law or if you have safety concerns, contact WSU Police Department at 801-626-6460. If there is an immediate threat to life or safety, call 911.
How are firearms laws enforced on Campus?
The University takes an education approach to the enforcement of Utah firearms laws on campus. Individuals who are observed violating applicable firearms laws or University policies will be contacted by University police and provided an opportunity to comply with the law when appropriate.
Individuals who refuse to comply or who are otherwise violating Utah law may be subject to criminal enforcement and/or University disciplinary action.
Questions regarding firearms laws or campus safety may be directed to the Weber State University Department of Public Safety at 801-626-6460.
Last Updated: July 2026