No, nunchucks are illegal in Utah under Utah Code § 76-10-506, which prohibits the carrying or possession of “nunchaku” without a valid concealed carry permit. The law treats them as dangerous weapons, aligning with Utah’s strict stance on bladed or impact weapons. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Salt Lake City Police Department, enforce this ban rigorously, particularly in public spaces.
Key Regulations for Nunchucks in Utah
- Prohibition Status: Utah Code § 76-10-506 explicitly bans nunchucks, classifying them as “dangerous weapons” akin to brass knuckles or switchblades.
- Penalties: Possession without a concealed carry permit (CCW) for weapons is a class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and $1,000 in fines.
- Local Enforcement: Municipalities like Provo and Ogden have reinforced compliance through targeted patrols, especially near schools or public events, per 2024 Utah Attorney General guidance.
The Utah Legislature has not amended this statute since 2018, despite advocacy from martial arts groups. The Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) maintains a watchlist for prohibited weapons, including nunchucks, during background checks for CCW permits. Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 930) does not preempt this state restriction, as nunchucks are not federally regulated.