- Open and Concealed Carry: Vermont law allows adults (16 and older) to openly or concealed carry most types of knives without restriction on blade length, except for certain automatic knives.
- Automatic Knives (Switchblades): The only specific statewide restriction is on automatic (switchblade) knives with a blade longer than 3 inches. Possession, sale, or transfer of such knives is illegal.
- No Statewide Blade Length Limit: For non-automatic knives, there is no blade length restriction for either open or concealed carry.
Age and Sales Restrictions
- Minors: It is unlawful for anyone other than a parent or guardian to sell or furnish a dangerous weapon, including knives, to anyone under.
Intent and Use
- Dangerous or Deadly Weapon: Any knife can be classified as a “dangerous” or “deadly” weapon if used or intended to be used to cause harm. Carrying a knife with intent to harm is a crime.
- Lawful Possession: Simply carrying a knife without criminal intent is not restricted for law-abiding individuals aged 16 or older.
Location-Based Restrictions
- Schools: Carrying a knife (openly or concealed) on school property, school buses, or in school buildings is strictly prohibited, regardless of intent. Violation can result in up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000.
- Courthouses: Possession of knives in court facilities is also prohibited and carries similar penalties.
- Other Government Buildings: Carrying a concealed knife onto the grounds of a state institution, such as a government building, is illegal and punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine up to $500.
Statewide Preemption
- Uniform State Law: Vermont does not allow local governments to regulate knife possession independently. This means knife laws are the same statewide, and municipalities cannot enact their own restrictions.
Recent and Pending Legislation
- Repeal Efforts: There have been ongoing efforts to repeal the restriction on automatic knives with blades over 3 inches, but as of early 2025, this restriction remains in place.
- Stay Informed: Knife laws can change, so it’s wise to monitor legislative updates if you own or carry automatic knives.
Practical Guidance
- Carry Responsibly: While Vermont’s knife laws are permissive, always carry knives responsibly and be mindful of intent and location.
- Informing Law Enforcement: There is no legal requirement to inform police that you are carrying a knife, but doing so during official encounters is considered polite and may help avoid misunderstandings.
- Consequences for Violations: Violating location-based restrictions or selling to minors can result in fines and jail time.
Table: Vermont Knife Laws (2025)
| Knife Type | Legal to Own/Carry? | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Non-automatic knives | Yes (open/concealed) | None, except in restricted locations |
| Automatic knives ≤ 3″ | Yes (open/concealed) | None, except in restricted locations |
| Automatic knives > 3″ | No | Illegal to possess, sell, or transfer |
| Any knife in schools/courts | No | Illegal regardless of type or intent |
| Sale to minors (<16) | No (unless by parent/guardian) | Illegal to sell/furnish |
Vermont allows broad knife rights for adults, with the main exceptions being automatic knives over 3 inches and possession in schools or courts. Always carry knives responsibly, know the law, and avoid restricted locations to stay within your rights.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/vermont/
[2] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/vermont-switchblade-ban-repeal-passed-by-senate/
[3] https://www.akti.org/news/vermont-repeal-filed/
[4] https://ravencresttactical.com/vermont-knife-laws/
[5] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/vermont-knife-laws/