Nevada Gun Laws and How They Differ From Neighboring States

Nevada, like most western states, has some of most lenient gun laws in the nation. Here’s a look at what gun laws look like in neighboring states based on information gathered by the National Rifle Association of America's Institute for Legislative Action.

Arizona: Nevada’s neighbor to the southeast is arguably the most tolerant state in the U.S. for gun owners. Its citizens can carry concealed or open handguns in most places without a license or permit. Nevada differs in that it does require a permit to conceal-carry a handgun.

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California: Nevada’s western neighbor has such strict gun laws that some residents visit Nevada to buy firearms. California requires many weapons to be registered, and gun sales — whether private or at gun shows — have to go through a licensed gun dealer. Open carry is banned in this state. Gun owners may legally carry handguns at home or at their places of business. It is legal for gun owners to keep their handguns at home or at their own business. Unlike many other states, including Nevada, California does not have a constitutional provision to protect the right to bear arms.

Utah: Utah's firearm laws are considered some of the more permissive in the country. The state’s gun laws are intended to protect citizen’s Second Amendment rights. Like Nevada, buyers do not have to be submitted to background checks when they purchase a handgun from a private seller.

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Oregon: Residents of Oregon may purchase or obtain a rifle or shotgun in a contiguous state like Nevada. They may also receive or transport into Idaho, weapons such as a rifle or shotgun, unless the purchase or transfer violates Idaho law or laws of the state in which the purchase or transfer is made. It is unlawful to carry concealed firearms unless you have a license.

Idaho: There is no state permit required for the purchase of any rifle, shotgun, or handgun. No state permit is required to possess a rifle, shotgun, or handgun. Idaho is an open carry state that has full pre-emption of state laws. Residents may carry a firearm in their vehicle inside the city limits or confines of a city, as long as it is in plain view, loaded or unloaded. However, concealed weapons must be disassembled or unloaded.

Arizona, Idaho, and Utah have all passed legislation to attempt to nullify the firearms regulation and, or, enforcement by the federal government.

This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.

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Related Stories:

• Pennsylvania Gun Laws and How They Compare Nationally
• Arizona Gun Laws and How They Differ From Neighboring States