We get a lot of questions from people about your right to carry a gun in a bank in North Carolina, so this month we wanted to address that particular issue.

WHAT THE LAW SAYS

There is no law in North Carolina that prevents you from possessing a firearm in a bank. However, the owners or managers of the bank have the right to prohibit possession of a gun on their premises. This prohibition may be stated orally or by the bank posting a clearly visible sign.

If the bank does not prohibit possession of a gun, then you are within your rights to possess a firearm on bank property. If you have a valid Concealed Handgun Permit (“CHP”) you may possess a concealed gun on your person while you are conducting bank business.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

There are additional considerations before you openly carry a gun in a bank. Even if there is not a specific prohibition, openly carrying a gun into a bank may subject you to be stopped or to being detained and questioned by police. If your intentions are misunderstood, you may even be arrested.

Further, because it may alarm customers or employees, the bank manager may deny you permission to conduct your business in the bank while openly carrying your gun. Because of the nature of bank business, the best practice is not to openly carry for your safety and convenience.

For more information about carrying into a bank, or any other facility, call U.S. LawShield and ask to speak to your Independent Program Attorney.