Yes, carrying a sword in public in Georgia is generally legal under state law, provided the blade is not concealed and does not meet the definition of a weapon under O.C.G.A. § 16-11-121. Local ordinances, such as those enforced by the Atlanta Police Department, may impose additional restrictions in designated areas. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to clarify blade length thresholds, potentially limiting swords exceeding 12 inches in urban zones.
Key Regulations for Carrying a Sword in Public in Georgia
- Blade Length Restrictions: Swords under 12 inches are typically unregulated, but blades exceeding this length may require justification (e.g., historical reenactment) under proposed 2026 amendments to O.C.G.A. § 16-11-127.1.
- Concealment Prohibitions: Open carry is permitted, but swords must be visible and not obscured by clothing or sheaths designed to hide the blade, per Atlanta Municipal Code § 106-82.
- Prohibited Locations: Carrying a sword is banned in government buildings, schools (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1180), and courthouses, with enforcement by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s Special Investigations Section.