← Massachusetts firearms laws›Open Carry
Massachusetts Open Carry Laws (2026)
Restricted: A Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC) is required to carry a handgun in public, whether openly or concealed.
A Massachusetts License to Carry (LTC) is required to carry a handgun in public, whether openly or concealed. Without one, carrying is punishable by 2.5 to 5 years in state prison, or 18 months to 2.5 years in jail, unless an exemption applies.
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Open Carry in states bordering Massachusetts
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- ConnecticutRestricted
Open carry is illegal. Since October 1, 2023, it is a crime to knowingly carry any firearm with intent to display it, and a permit does not exempt you. Taking reasonable steps to keep it concealed means you are not treated as displaying it. Exceptions include your home, your land, your business, hunting and firearm training. A first offense is a class B misdemeanor.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: portal.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
- New HampshirePermitted
Open carry of a handgun is legal in New Hampshire without a license for anyone 18 or older who can lawfully possess one.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: nhsp.dos.nh.gov · Full New Hampshire rule →
- New YorkRestricted
New York has no license for openly carrying a handgun. The carry license covers concealed carry only. Without a license, possessing a handgun is a crime, and possessing a loaded handgun outside your home or business is a felony.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: troopers.ny.gov · Full New York rule →
- Rhode IslandRestricted
Open carry in Rhode Island requires a carry permit. Without a permit you may possess a handgun only in your home, your business, or on land you own.
Verified May 31, 2026 · Source: riag.ri.gov · Full Rhode Island rule →
- VermontPermitted
Open carry of a handgun is legal in Vermont without a permit for anyone who may lawfully possess one. Firearms are barred in some places, including school buildings, courthouses without court authorization, hospital buildings, and polling places on election day.
Verified Oct 12, 2026 · Source: dps.vermont.gov · Full Vermont rule →
We watch the official sources behind Massachusetts firearms rules. If a tracked rule changes, you get one short email — never more than one a week. Free, unsubscribe anytime.