Louisiana Gun Control Laws
By John Mascolo, Esq. | Legally reviewed by FindLaw Staff | Last reviewed December 31, 2024
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Louisiana gun control laws are among the least restrictive in the United States. Louisiana does not require a license or permit to own a firearm. It does not place state restrictions on the possession or ownership of assault weapons or large-capacity magazines.
Louisiana also does not require universal background checks before gun purchases. Under federal law, all purchases and transfers made through federally licensed gun dealers must include a background check. Purchases and transfers made through private sales are not covered.
Efforts at gun control at the state level must take into account the concerns of gun owners. Louisiana is a destination for hunting, fishing, and many other outdoor activities. The Louisiana Constitution states:
“The right of each citizen to keep and bear arms is fundamental and shall not be infringed. Any restriction on this right shall be subject to strict scrutiny."
Louisiana does not have a waiting period for gun purchases. As of July 4, 2024, Louisiana law no longer requires a permit for individuals aged 18 and older to carry a concealed firearm, provided they are not otherwise prohibited from possessing a gun (See L.R.S. 14:95 M)
Louisiana places restrictions on the carrying of firearms, whether concealed or open, in certain locations. These include:
- A law enforcement office, station, or building
- A prison, jail, or detention facility
- A courthouse or courtroom
- A public building used for meetings of the governing authority of a locality, such as a city council or school board
- The state capitol building
- Prohibited locations within an airport facility
- A place of worship, unless authorized by the administrator/leader
- A school, school campus, or school bus
- A polling place
- A parade or demonstration that was issued a permit by the government
- An establishment with a permit to sell alcoholic beverages
- Private residences, unless authorized by the resident
Louisiana also has a preemption statute. In most circumstances, this law prevents cities such as Baton Rouge and New Orleans from enacting local laws that provide greater gun restrictions than the state.
Learn more about Louisiana gun control laws in the table below. See Details on State Gun Control Laws for more general information.
Relevant Statutes (Laws) |
Louisiana Revised Statutes:
|
---|---|
Illegal Arms |
The following firearms are illegal to possess:
|
Waiting Period |
There is no waiting period to purchase a firearm in Louisiana. |
Who May Not Own |
People are prohibited from owning a firearm if they have been convicted of, or have been found not guilty by reason of insanity for, a crime of violence that is:
Additionally, people who have been convicted of an attempt to commit the above-listed crimes may not own a firearm. Others prohibited from owning a firearm include:
|
License Required?
|
No. You do not need a license to purchase a gun in Louisiana. |
Conceal Carry License Required? |
No. If you are eighteen years of ago or older, and can lawfully carry a firearm, you don't need a license to carry a concealed handgun in Louisiana. |
Open Carried Allowed? |
Yes. Louisiana permits open carry. However, there may be limitations on certain locations. |
Eligibility for a Concealed Carry Permit |
Under state law, you must meet the following qualifications to get a concealed handgun permit:
|
Machine Gun Laws |
It is unlawful to manufacture, transfer, or possess a machine gun in Louisiana except in the following circumstances:
|
Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession |
The penalties for illegally carrying a firearm are:
|
Penalties for Illegal Possession on or Near School Grounds |
Illegal possession of a firearm on school grounds is punishable by up to five years in prison. If the offense involves the firearm being used in a crime of violence, then the penalties adjust to one to five years in prison; a fine of up to $2,000; or both. |
Red Flag Law? |
No. |
Universal Background Checks? |
No. |
Stand Your Ground Law? |
Yes. Louisiana enacted a Stand Your Ground law in 2014, allowing the use of force in self-defense without the duty to retreat. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts including federal decisions, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Louisiana Criminal Laws: Related Resources
- Gun Laws
- Can A Business Prohibit Guns?
- Official State Codes - Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and DC
- Louisiana Law
- Second Amendment
Learn More About Louisiana Gun Control Laws From an Attorney
If you would like to know more about Louisiana gun laws, there are many attorneys throughout the state with criminal defense experience who may be able to help. An attorney can provide advice regarding criminal charges. They may also assist you in efforts to reclaim unlawfully confiscated firearms or to restore an improperly revoked concealed handgun permit.
Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?
- Complex criminal defense situations usually require a lawyer
- Defense attorneys can help protect your rights
- A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many Louisiana attorneys offer free consultations.
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