Washington State has a mix of permissive and restrictive gun laws. This guide provides an overview of key firearm regulations, including purchasing requirements, open and concealed carry laws, restricted areas, and self-defense rights.

Washington Gun Laws Overview

Purchasing Firearms in Washington

Washington has specific regulations for purchasing firearms, including background checks, waiting periods, and age restrictions.

Key Requirements:

Permit to Purchase: Not required, but enhanced background checks are required for all firearm purchases.
Background Check: Required for both dealer and private sales, including gun shows.
Waiting Period: A 10-day waiting period applies to all semi-automatic rifle purchases. Other firearms may have delays due to background checks.
Minimum Age: Buyers must be at least 21 to purchase semi-automatic rifles and handguns and at least 18 for shotguns and other long guns.

Firearm Licensing in Washington

Washington does not require a license to own firearms, but individuals must obtain a permit to carry a concealed pistol.

Private Sales and Background Checks

All firearm sales in Washington, including private sales, must be conducted through a licensed dealer who will perform a background check. This requirement helps ensure that individuals purchasing firearms are not prohibited from owning them.

Open Carry in Washington

Washington allows open carry of firearms without a permit for individuals 21 and older. However, carrying in certain areas is restricted, and brandishing a firearm is illegal.

Key Points on Open Carry:

Permitless Open Carry: Allowed without a permit, but some restrictions apply in “sensitive areas” like schools and government buildings.
Vehicle Carry: Firearms must be unloaded if carried openly in a vehicle without a permit. A concealed pistol license allows for loaded vehicle carry.

Concealed Carry in Washington

Washington requires a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) for residents who wish to carry a concealed handgun. Concealed carry is only permitted with a valid CPL.

Concealed Pistol License (CPL):

Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be at least 21 and pass a background check.
Application Process: CPL applications can be submitted at local law enforcement agencies, requiring fingerprints, identification, and applicable fees.
Permit Validity: CPLs are valid for five years.

Reciprocity with Other States

Washington has limited reciprocity for out-of-state concealed carry permits. Washington does not honor concealed carry permits from other states, except from those states that have a similar concealed carry background check requirement.

Restricted Locations for Carrying Firearms in Washington

Certain areas are restricted from firearm carry in Washington, even for those with a concealed carry license.

Schools and Educational Facilities: Firearms are prohibited on K-12 school property and certain parts of colleges and universities.
Government Buildings: Firearms are restricted in courthouses, law enforcement facilities, and certain state government buildings.
Private Property: Property owners may prohibit firearms on their premises, and individuals must comply with posted restrictions.
Public Transit: Seattle and other municipalities restrict firearms on public transit.
Bars and Taverns: Firearms are not permitted in areas of bars or restaurants that are designated for alcohol consumption.

Assault Weapons and Magazine Capacity in Washington

Washington has specific laws regarding semi-automatic assault rifles and magazine capacities.

Semi-Automatic Rifles: Purchasers must complete a firearm safety course within the last five years before purchasing a semi-automatic rifle.
Magazine Capacity: Washington limits magazine capacity to 10 rounds for rifles and handguns as of July 1, 2022.

Self-Defense Laws in Washington: Stand Your Ground and Duty to Retreat

Washington does not have a formal Stand Your Ground law, but state courts generally allow individuals to use reasonable force in self-defense without a duty to retreat in locations where they are legally present. Washington also follows the Castle Doctrine for self-defense within one’s home.

Stand Your Ground

While not codified, Washington does not impose a duty to retreat in cases of self-defense outside the home, allowing the use of force if the individual feels reasonably threatened.

Castle Doctrine

Washington’s Castle Doctrine permits residents to defend themselves with reasonable force in their own homes, including using deadly force if facing an immediate threat of serious harm.

Firearms Prohibited Persons in Washington

Certain individuals are prohibited from owning or possessing firearms under both Washington state law and federal law.

Felony Convictions: Convicted felons are prohibited from firearm ownership.
Domestic Violence Convictions: Those with domestic violence convictions or active protection orders are prohibited from possessing firearms.
Mental Health Restrictions: Individuals involuntarily committed for mental health treatment may be restricted from owning firearms.
Drug and Substance Abuse: Those with drug-related convictions or a known history of substance abuse may face firearm restrictions.

Penalties for Violating Gun Laws in Washington

Violations of Washington’s gun laws can result in criminal charges, including fines, jail time, and potential forfeiture of firearm rights.

Unlawful Possession: Possessing a firearm as a prohibited person or carrying in restricted areas can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges.
Failure to Comply with Magazine Capacity: Possession of magazines exceeding 10 rounds in Washington can lead to criminal charges.
Unlawful Carry: Carrying a concealed firearm without a valid CPL or brandishing a firearm in a threatening manner can result in legal penalties.

Conclusion: Understanding Washington’s Gun Laws

Washington’s gun laws combine both permissive carry laws and certain restrictions, such as magazine limits and required background checks for all sales. Residents and visitors should familiarize themselves with restricted areas and firearm regulations to ensure compliance with state law.

FAQs About Gun Laws in Washington

1. Do I need a permit to buy a gun in Washington?
No permit is required to purchase firearms in Washington, though background checks are mandatory.

2. Is open carry allowed in Washington?
Yes, open carry is allowed for those 21 and older without a permit, with some restrictions in sensitive areas.

3. Does Washington restrict magazine capacity?
Yes, magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for both handguns and rifles.

4. Does Washington recognize out-of-state concealed carry permits?
Washington has limited reciprocity and only recognizes permits from states with similar background check requirements.

5. What self-defense laws apply in Washington?
Washington follows a version of Stand Your Ground principles, allowing self-defense without a duty to retreat, and also follows the Castle Doctrine.