Utah lawmakers updated state law governing concealed weapons during the 2025 General Session.
Under the changes in HB 128, which went into effect on May 7, individuals who are 18 years old or older and have a current Utah concealed weapon permit (CWP) may carry a weapon on campus, including in an “open” fashion
“Our highest priority is preserving public safety on campus,” said Keith Squires, chief safety officer. “As a subdivision of the state, the University of Utah enforces state law, including concealed weapon rules. Equally important is our role in educating members of our campus community about how to responsibly carry a concealed weapon on campus and how to engage with roommates, professors and others to avoid conflicts and misunderstandings.”
Utah has been an open or “constitutional carry” state since 2021. Prior to the passage of HB 128 during the 2025 Utah Legislature, those who wanted to carry a firearm on campus were required to keep it concealed. The new law makes it clear that Utahns 18 years or older, who have a concealed weapon permit, may carry a firearm concealed or openly on campus. University of Utah Police will confirm that those carrying openly on campus have a concealed weapon permit.
Here are some frequently asked questions about firearms on campus:
Firearms on campus FAQ
The State of Utah grants exclusive authority to the legislature to make laws governing firearms. Title 76-10-500 through Title 76-10-531 of the Utah Code covers gun ownership.
No weapons are allowed in secure hearing rooms or in mental health facilities.
In order to carry a firearm on campus, a person must obtain a Concealed Carry Permit (CCP) from the State of Utah. On-campus residents in Housing and Dining Programs (formerly Housing and Residential Education or HRE) may keep a firearm in their room for protection and are not required to have a CCP for this purpose. A firearm that is unloaded in a locked case is not considered concealed and can be transported on campus in the case without the owner needing to have a concealed carry permit.
Residents who wish to keep a firearm for personal protection are encouraged to store their weapon in a locked safe for their own safety and the safety of others. Through College Products, U of U Housing offers safe purchasing or rental options for residents. Students can rent wide, strong box safes for their belongings, including firearms.
Anyone observing a person with a weapon on campus should report this information to University Police (585-COPS or 911 if an emergency). Police will respond and verify that the person in question is authorized to carry the weapon and otherwise complying with the law.
Residents have the right to request not to room with someone having a firearm. If you become aware that your roommate has a firearm in their room for personal protection, and you do not want to live with a person who has a gun, reach out to U of U Housing to discuss options.
UUPD works closely with U of U Housing to investigate and address any suspicious activity, including incidents related to firearms. Please visit the University of Utah Department of Public Safety website for more information about their service.
Simulated weapons, disabled weapons and toy weapons of any type are prohibited from being used for decoration or for amusement in campus housing. In addition, the following items are prohibited in housing: paintball guns, Nerf guns, bows, arrows, crossbows, bolts, pressurized water guns (e.g., water bead blasters), swords, knives with blades over 5 inches and throwing stars.
Note: Knives intended for kitchen use only (not to be stored in a common kitchen area) with blades exceeding 5 inches may be permitted on campus housing facilities if used and stored properly.
Community members concerned about the legislation can reach out to their legislator to raise their concerns and express their opinions.
Find official detailed information regarding what is legal or illegal in possession of a firearm in Utah here.