Utah has some of the most permissive knife laws in the United States, and pocket knives are no exception. Here’s what you need to know about owning, carrying, and using pocket knives in Utah:
Ownership and Carry Laws
- Legal to Own and Carry:
It is legal for most people to own and carry any type of knife in Utah, including pocket knives, folding knives, fixed blades, switchblades, and more. There are no statewide restrictions on blade length or knife type for either open or concealed carry. - Open and Concealed Carry:
Both open and concealed carry of pocket knives are legal in Utah, with no specific limitations on blade length or mechanism. This means you can carry a pocket knife in your pocket, bag, or openly on your person without violating state law.
Key Restrictions and Exceptions
- Restricted Persons:
Individuals classified as “restricted persons” (such as convicted felons) are prohibited from possessing or carrying knives, as outlined in Utah Code 76-10-503. - Intent Matters:
The legality of carrying a pocket knife can change if the knife is carried or used with unlawful intent. If a knife is used or intended to be used as a weapon in the commission of a crime, it may be classified as a “dangerous weapon,” leading to serious criminal charges. - Dangerous Weapon Definition:
Under Utah law, a knife becomes a “dangerous weapon” based on its intended use. If you simply carry a pocket knife for utility or recreational purposes, it is not considered a dangerous weapon. However, if you threaten someone or use it in a threatening manner, it can be prosecuted as such. - Restricted Locations:
Knives are not allowed in certain locations, including schools, courthouses, and some government buildings. Possession of a knife on or near school premises is specifically prohibited and can result in criminal penalties. - Minors:
There are no explicit statewide age restrictions for carrying pocket knives, but schools and some local ordinances may impose their own rules for minors.
Table: Pocket Knife Laws in Utah
| Aspect | Utah Law Summary |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Legal for all except restricted persons |
| Open carry | Legal, no blade length or type restrictions |
| Concealed carry | Legal, no blade length or type restrictions |
| Blade length limit | None statewide |
| Restricted locations | Prohibited in schools, courthouses, some government buildings |
| Intent to use as weapon | Illegal; can be prosecuted as dangerous weapon |
| Age restrictions | None statewide; schools may have their own policies |
Important Case: Salt Lake City v. Miles
The Utah Supreme Court clarified that a pocket knife is not automatically a “dangerous weapon.” Its legal status depends on the context and intent of the person carrying it. If the knife is not used or intended to be used as a weapon, it is generally treated as a tool, not a weapon.
Best Practices
- Use Responsibly: Carry your pocket knife for lawful purposes such as work, recreation, or daily utility.
- Avoid Restricted Areas: Never bring a knife onto school property or into government buildings.
- Be Mindful of Intent: Do not brandish or use a pocket knife in a threatening manner.
- Check Local Rules: While state law is permissive, some cities or institutions may have additional restrictions.
Utah law allows for broad ownership and carry of pocket knives, both openly and concealed, for most individuals. The main exceptions involve restricted persons, intent to use as a weapon, and possession in certain prohibited locations. Always use pocket knives responsibly and be aware of your surroundings and local regulations to avoid legal issues.
Sources
[1] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/utah/
[2] https://utahcarrylaws.com/laws/utah/knives/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/utah-knife-laws/
[4] https://www.egclegal.com/utah-knife-laws-a-detailed-exploration/
[5] https://www.howarddefense.com/posts-archive/knife-tool-weapon-utah-criminal-law/
