North Dakota Gun Laws and How They Differ From Neighboring States

While all 50 states must adhere to certain federal laws concerning the possession and sale of firearms, individual states often differ on laws ranging from concealed carry permits to assault weapon ownership. North Dakota gun laws differ from surrounding states, including Montana, Minnesota, and South Dakota in several areas.

1. North Dakota is one of 17 states with a law that says employers are not allowed to prohibit employees from keeping weapons in their vehicles during work hours, but North Dakota goes one step further by permitting those employees to sue for damages if they are even asked about gun possession on company property.

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2. North Dakota has no laws regulating assault weapons, which varies from Minnesota, a state that doesn’t ban them, but has a number of statutes in place regulating the sale and possession of some semiautomatic military-style assault weapons.

3. Armor-piercing and other dangerous ammunition, permitting it isn’t federally prohibited, is permitted to own, transfer or use in North Dakota, but not in Montana.

4. In Minnesota, anyone who recklessly allows a child under 14 access to a loaded firearm in a situation that could prove dangerous or life-threatening is criminally liable for child endangerment. In North Dakota there is no such law, however, a guardian may be charged with a Class B misdemeanor if they allow anyone under 15 to carry or use a loaded firearm in public. South Dakota, in contrast, only prohibits anyone from selling or giving a firearm or ammunition to a minor if they believe the minor intends to use it for violence.

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5. North Dakota, like surrounding states, requires a permit to conceal and carry a firearm, but unlike Montana and South Dakota, applicants must complete a test with a certified weapons instructor prior to approval for the permit. The states also differ in permitting processes in regard to permit duration. North Dakota’s permits are valid for five years, whereas the other two must be renewed in four.

While it is permissible to carry a concealed weapon in North Dakota and all surrounding states, certain off-limits locations vary by state. While most states include schools on the list, North Dakota is unique in prohibiting concealed firearms from any public gathering and casinos.

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

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