Most states and localities have laws that say where you can and cannot carry a handgun legally, including whether or not the handgun must be concealed. Be sure you know the laws for your area.

Some places where you may be allowed to have a handgun and fire it legally include:

• Your residence or other private property
• Your place of business
• A campsite

Some locations where you may be prohibited from carrying a gun include:

• Vehicles
• School grounds
• Courthouses and/or other government buildings, including libraries, post offices, and law enforcement offices
• Military bases
• City, county, or state parks
• Places that sell or serve alcohol
• Sporting events
• Hospitals or nursing homes
• Churches or other places of religious worship
• Areas posted with signs that prohibit concealed weapons

In addition, some areas have different laws for public places and publicly owned places.

• Public places include places where people are invited to do business. These are usually owned by a company. Examples are automobile repair shops, convenience stores, and department stores.
• Publicly owned places include places that are paid for by tax dollars. Examples are city parks, libraries, municipal buildings, recreation centers, and schools.