Yes, Montana permits concealed carry without a permit for residents and non-residents aged 18+, provided they are not prohibited from possessing firearms under federal or state law. Since the 2021 repeal of permit requirements, the Montana Department of Justice no longer issues concealed carry permits, though reciprocity agreements with other states remain in effect for permit holders. Local sheriffs retain discretion to restrict carry in certain sensitive areas, such as government buildings or schools, under Montana Code Annotated § 45-8-317.
Key Regulations for Concealed Carry Without a Permit in Montana
- Age and Eligibility: Individuals must be at least 18 years old and not subject to federal prohibitions (e.g., felony convictions, domestic violence restraining orders, or adjudicated mental incompetence).
- Restricted Locations: Firearms are prohibited in federal facilities, courthouses, schools (K-12 and postsecondary), and establishments serving alcohol if posted under § 45-8-321. Private property owners may also prohibit carry via signage.
- Open Carry vs. Concealed: While open carry is unrestricted, concealed carry without a permit requires the firearm to be “on or about the person” in a manner not discernible to the public, per § 45-8-316.