Utah has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States. Residents and visitors can generally own, carry, and use a wide variety of knives with minimal restrictions. However, there are important nuances and exceptions to be aware of to stay within the law.
What Types of Knives Are Legal in Utah?
- All knife types are legal: Utah law does not prohibit the ownership or possession of any specific type of knife. This includes pocket knives, fixed blades, switchblades, gravity knives, balisongs (butterfly knives), dirks, daggers, stilettos, bowie knives, swords, machetes, and disguised knives (such as those in belt buckles or necklaces).
- No blade length limits: There are no state-imposed restrictions on blade length for either open or concealed carry.
Carrying Knives: Open and Concealed Carry
- Open Carry: You may openly carry any knife, of any length or type, anywhere in Utah except in certain restricted locations.
- Concealed Carry: Utah does not restrict the concealed carry of knives. Any knife can be carried concealed, regardless of blade length or style, unless you are a restricted person or in a restricted location.
- Intent matters: It is illegal to carry a knife (or any dangerous weapon) with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person.
Who Cannot Carry Knives?
- Restricted persons: Individuals prohibited from possessing dangerous weapons under Utah Code § 76-10-503 (such as certain felons or those with restraining orders) cannot legally possess or carry knives.
- Minors: While there is no explicit statewide age limit, minors may face additional scrutiny. Schools and other institutions often have their own policies prohibiting knives on their premises.
Where Are Knives Prohibited?
- Schools: It is illegal to possess a dangerous weapon, including knives, on or about school premises (K-12), with very limited exceptions.
- Other restricted locations: Certain government buildings, courthouses, and private properties may have their own rules against knives.
Definition of a Dangerous Weapon
- Dangerous weapon: Under Utah law, a knife is considered a dangerous weapon if it is capable of causing death or serious bodily injury. Any knife can be classified as such, depending on how it is used or intended to be used.
Key Legal References
- Utah Code § 76-10-501: Defines dangerous weapons, including knives.
- Utah Code § 76-10-504: Addresses carrying concealed dangerous weapons.
- Utah Code § 76-10-505.5: Prohibits weapons on school premises.
Table: Utah Knife Laws
| Topic | Utah Law Summary |
|---|---|
| Legal Knife Types | All types legal (no statewide bans) |
| Blade Length Limits | None |
| Open Carry | Legal for all knives except in restricted locations |
| Concealed Carry | Legal for all knives except in restricted locations |
| Restricted Persons | Cannot possess knives |
| Schools | Knives prohibited on K-12 premises |
| Intent | Illegal to carry with unlawful intent |
Utah’s knife laws are highly permissive: you can own, open carry, and conceal carry virtually any knife, with no blade length restrictions. The main exceptions are for restricted persons, school zones, and when carrying with unlawful intent. Always check for local rules in sensitive locations and use knives responsibly to avoid serious legal consequences.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/utah/
[2] https://www.utahcriminallaw.net/utah-laws-for-swords-and-machetes/
[3] https://dailycarryco.com/blogs/everydaycarry/understanding-and-legalities-of-gravity-knives-in-utah
[4] https://www.shokuninusa.com/it-eu/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
[5] https://utahcarrylaws.com/laws/utah/knives/
