In general, it is a violation of the law to conceal a dangerous weapon on one’s person while in public spaces. Virginia lists an assortment of weapons, ranging from daggers and firearms to nunchucks that people cannot carry in a concealed manner in public.
Weapons that other people cannot easily see are potentially concealed weapons, and their presence on someone’s person could be grounds for their arrest and prosecution. However, there are statutory exceptions to this rule. When is it theoretically legal to carry concealed weapons in public locations in Virginia?
When traveling to a show
There are trade shows and similar events where people with interests in different niche hobbies, including martial arts and weaponry, share information and conduct private sales. Those on their way to or from such events may have protection from prosecution for carrying a weapon in public. People may need to prove their membership in relevant clubs or organizations for this rule to apply.
When on the way to a class or range
The law allows individuals on their way to practice with a firearm or receive instruction to carry it in a properly secured manner. Typically, this means carrying a firearm in an unloaded and secured manner and having other weapons in proper holsters or containers.
When at their own place of business
Business owners in Virginia have the right to protect their property. Virginia law allows people to carry their personal weapons however they want while in their own homes or on the curtilage of their property. Similar protections apply to a business owner carrying a concealed weapon at their place of business.
Learning more about the unique rules in Virginia’s weapons laws may benefit those facing prosecution for an alleged violation, as well as those who are hoping to avoid a violation in the first place.
