Spring Break is here, and everyone is thawing out after a long winter. Watch Independent Program Attorney Ed Riley instruct you on the law before walking into a restaurant or bar with your firearm.
What is the Law in Virginia for Bars and Guns?
Generally, alcohol and Firearms do not mix. In Virginia, there are a few key laws that you need to be aware of concerning alcohol and the carrying and possession of firearms in Virginia.
Under Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.012, you cannot conceal carry a handgun on the premises of a restaurant or bar that is controlled by the Virginia ABC Board and consume an alcoholic beverage. This statute also makes it illegal for any person licensed to conceal and carry a handgun to be under the influence and carry that handgun in a public place.
If convicted under this statute, your concealed carry permit will be revoked and you will not be eligible to reapply for that permit for five years.
It’s important to note that most establishments that sell alcohol are licensed by the Virginia ABC Board, or privately owned. That means they are private property and the owner of such property has the right to ban firearms from their establishment.
It says you may not consume alcohol. But if your not drinking you can still carry right?
Hi Tony and thank you for your question. As long as you are not drinking, as a concealed carry permit holder, you can still conceal carry in the restaurant or bar. Of course, as the video says, many of the bars and restaurants are private establishments and can ban firearms, so if you are asked to leave please do to prevent any risk of trespassing charges.
I assume this applies to open carry as well? Are you allowed to open carry at a restaurant or bar without drinking?
In the stateof Virginia do I have to answer a police officer that is asking if I have my hand gun on me. I do have a conceled permit.
You’re an idiot. Or, rather the program that allowed you to gain a concealed carry permit has conned you.
In VA, if you have a concealed permit that means you’ve gone through a VERY basic training of gun ownership and usage training. In that training, it should have been laid out very clearly that if you have any interactions with the police, the first thing to tell them is that you are carrying and are permitted to concealed carry. You shouldn’t even give them the opportunity to ask, it’s your duty to announce it right away while providing your CC permit.
Your question really points to the systemic failure of firearm legislation.. You should absolutely not have a concealed carry permit.
The question asked is “do I have to” (as in legally required). Virginia does not have a law that requires it. That said, to avoid startling an officer it’s a very good idea. We are required to carry our permits along with a government issued photo ID.
Bashing people with an honest question doesn’t help anyone.
You do not have to provide that information unless asked. If asked please comply with whatever they request regarding your ID and weapon check. They cannot search your vehicle or person if you do not consent to a search of your vehicle even if you admit to having a weapon and prove you are in good standing to carry it.
Since the code states “premises” I imagine you can’t just leave your handgun in your vehicle prior to going inside said establishment unless it’s locked? I am moving from PA to Virginia so I’m just trying to make sure I understand the law clearly as we do not have this restriction in PA. Thank you in advance.