Can a Washington Business Really Prohibit You From Possessing a Firearm on Their Premise?

Published on October 13, 2021
Duration: 7:52

William Kirk of Washington Gun Law explains that private businesses in Washington State can legally prohibit firearms on their premises, distinguishing this from state-mandated gun-free zones. While businesses have the right to set their own policies, consumers retain the freedom to choose where they spend their money. Violating a private business's firearm policy typically results in being asked to leave or facing trespass charges, not criminal charges related to firearm possession.

Quick Summary

Private businesses in Washington State can legally prohibit firearms on their premises. This right stems from their ability to set terms for conducting business, distinct from state-mandated gun-free zones. Violating such a policy typically results in being asked to leave or facing trespass charges, not criminal firearm possession charges.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction: Business Firearm Prohibition
  2. 00:27Understanding Gun-Free Zones vs. Private Policies
  3. 01:40Specific Washington Gun-Free Zone Laws (RCW)
  4. 02:37Private Business Right to Prohibit Firearms
  5. 03:09Constitutional Rights and Private Entities
  6. 04:22Consumer Rights and Choices
  7. 04:56Examples of Businesses with Firearm Policies
  8. 06:03Consequences of Violating Business Policies
  9. 07:11Contact Washington Gun Law

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a private business in Washington State legally ban firearms on their property?

Yes, private businesses in Washington State have the legal right to prohibit firearms on their premises. This is a policy they can set for conducting business, separate from state-mandated gun-free zones.

What is the difference between a gun-free zone and a private business's firearm policy?

Gun-free zones are areas designated by state law where firearms are prohibited under all circumstances. A private business's policy is a rule set by the owner for their establishment, and violating it typically leads to being asked to leave, not criminal charges.

What are the consequences if I carry a firearm into a business that prohibits it in Washington?

If you carry a firearm into a Washington business that has a prohibition policy, you will likely be asked to leave. If you refuse, you could be charged with criminal trespass, but not for the firearm possession itself under criminal law.

Do my Second Amendment rights apply to private businesses in Washington?

The Second Amendment protects you from government actions, not from the rules set by private businesses. While you have a constitutional right to bear arms against government intrusion, private entities can set their own terms for entry and commerce.

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