The Wolverine State has some specific regulations on carrying knives, especially when it comes to concealed carry and certain locations.
While pocketknives are generally unrestricted, there are rules about carrying double-edged fixed blade knives, and schools are considered off-limits for weapons.
Keep in mind that major cities like Detroit and Lansing have their own additional restrictions. But don’t worry, the prohibition on automatic knives was lifted in 2017.
It’s essential to understand the ins and outs of Michigan’s knife laws to ensure you’re on the right side of the regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Michigan does not have statewide preemption in knife laws, allowing local governments to regulate the carry and possession of knives.
- Blade length restrictions apply for concealed carry in Michigan, with varying limitations depending on location and circumstances.
- Proper procedure for obtaining a permit is necessary for concealed carry, with double-edged nonfolding stabbing instruments being prohibited, except for hunting knives adapted for field dressing game.
- Carrying concealed knives on school property is prohibited in Michigan, and Detroit and Lansing have specific knife ordinances regulating blade length and open carrying.
Statewide Preemption
You rarely encounter statewide preemption in Michigan’s knife laws since Governor Whitmer vetoed a preemption bill in 2021, despite it being passed by both bodies of the Michigan legislature.
This means that local governments in Michigan have the authority to regulate the carry and possession of knives within their jurisdictions.
While this may result in varying regulations across different areas, it also allows for potential flexibility and accommodation of local needs and preferences.
When it comes to carrying a knife in Michigan, it’s crucial to be aware of the specific laws in your area to ensure compliance.
Understanding the legalities surrounding concealed carry, blade length, and prohibited locations, such as schools, is essential for responsible and lawful knife ownership in Michigan.
Always exercise your right to carry a legal knife openly in accordance with Michigan state law.
Concealed Carry
When it comes to concealed carry of knives in Michigan, it’s important to be aware of the blade length restrictions and the permit application process.
Understanding the specific limitations on blade length for concealed carry is crucial, as it can vary depending on the location and circumstances.
Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the proper procedure for obtaining a permit to carry a concealed knife will help ensure compliance with state laws.
Blade Length Restrictions
If someone wants to carry a knife concealed in Michigan, they must be aware of the blade length restrictions.
Michigan Knife Laws specify that when carrying a concealed knife, the blade length mustn’t be considered a dangerous weapon per se.
The Michigan legislature allows the open carry of any knife, but when it comes to carrying a concealed knife, the following restrictions apply:
- The blade length of the concealed knife mustn’t be considered a dangerous weapon per se.
- It’s legal to conceal carry a hunting knife adapted for the purpose of field dressing game while hunting.
- Double-edged nonfolding stabbing instruments are prohibited from being carried concealed, subject to very limited exceptions.
Understanding these blade length restrictions is crucial for those wanting to carry a knife concealed in Michigan.
Permit Application Process
The permit application process for concealed carry of knives in Michigan requires submission of an application to the county gun board.
According to Michigan state law, individuals are required to obtain a concealed pistol license (CPL) for carrying certain types of knives in a concealed manner.
To apply, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being at least 21 years old, completing a firearms safety training course, and passing a background check.
It’s important to note that dangerous weapons per se, such as daggers and stilettos, are prohibited from concealed carry.
Additionally, individuals should be aware of weapon-free school zones, where carrying a concealed knife is strictly prohibited.
Understanding the permit application process is crucial for law-abiding citizens who wish to exercise their right to concealed carry while ensuring compliance with Michigan Knife Laws.
Schools
You can’t carry a concealed dagger, dirk, stiletto, or any other dangerous weapon on school property in Michigan, as it’s designated as a weapons-free zone.
Michigan law strictly prohibits carrying concealed knives, including automatic knives, at schools or on school buses.
However, you can legally transport a knife in your vehicle if it’s stored properly, such as in the trunk, and you aren’t entering a weapons-free zone.
It’s important to be aware of the specific carry laws in different locations, including schools, to avoid legal issues.
Keep in mind that colleges may have their own regulations regarding knives, so it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their policies.
Always prioritize safety and compliance with Michigan Knife Laws to uphold freedom while respecting the law.
Major Cities With Knife Ordinances
When it comes to major cities in Michigan, it’s important to be aware of specific knife ordinances.
Detroit and Lansing both have regulations on blade length and open carrying of knives.
Understanding these city-specific restrictions and concealed carry laws is crucial for staying compliant with Michigan’s knife regulations.
City-Specific Restrictions
Detroit and Lansing enforce knife restrictions in their respective municipalities.
In Detroit, it’s illegal to carry concealed weapons, including fixed-blade knives, spring-assisted knives, and gravity knives. Additionally, carrying a dagger or hunting knife concealed is prohibited.
Lansing also prohibits the concealed carry of fixed-blade knives, spring-assisted knives, gravity knives, daggers, and hunting knives.
It’s essential to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any legal repercussions. When in these cities, ensure that any knives you carry comply with local regulations to exercise your freedom responsibly.
Always stay informed about the specific ordinances in place, as they can differ from state laws. Understanding and respecting these regulations is crucial for a trouble-free experience in Detroit and Lansing.
Regulations on Blade Length
In Michigan, major cities with knife ordinances, such as Detroit and Lansing, periodically enforce regulations on blade length for both open and concealed carrying.
While there are no statewide blade length restrictions for pocket knives, Detroit and Lansing have specific regulations on open carrying knives over three inches in length.
It’s generally lawful to open carry any knife with lawful intent in Michigan, except for double-edged fixed-blade knives, which are disfavored and carrying them concealed is a felony.
The case of People v Payne established that carrying a hunting knife isn’t unlawful if it’s not concealed and there’s no intent to harm.
However, it’s important to be aware of the city-specific restrictions in Detroit and Lansing, as they impact the possession of knives and the lawful carrying of deadly weapons in those areas.
Concealed Carry Laws?
Concealed carry of double-edged fixed blade knives is prohibited in major cities with knife ordinances in Michigan, subject to limited exceptions.
Here’s what you need to know about concealed carry laws for knives in major Michigan cities:
- Intent to Use: If there’s intent to use the knife unlawfully against another person, it’s prohibited.
- Vehicle Operated or Occupied: Carrying a hunting knife or any other knife having a blade over three inches in a vehicle operated or occupied is also restricted.
- Deadly Weapon or Instrument: The Michigan Supreme Court, in People v. Carines, declared that a knife can be considered a deadly weapon or instrument depending on its usage and circumstances.
It’s important to stay informed about these laws to ensure that your rights and freedoms are upheld under Michigan Knife Laws.
At a Glance
To understand Michigan knife laws at a glance, familiarize yourself with the regulations on double-edged fixed blade knives, school weapon-free zones, and local ordinances.
Michigan Knife Laws prohibit the carrying of double-edged fixed blade knives, and doing so concealed is punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 years and a fine not to exceed $2,500.
It’s illegal to carry any dangerous or deadly weapon, including knives, on school property, as schools are designated as weapon-free zones.
Moreover, certain municipalities in Michigan, such as Detroit and Lansing, have specific knife restrictive ordinances.
However, pocket knives aren’t restricted under state law, and the prohibition on automatic knives was removed in October 2017.
Exceptions to the prohibition on concealed carry include knives, tools, and implements made from stone by means of conchoidal fracturing, as well as hunting knives while in the field hunting.
Discussion
You should understand the importance of familiarizing yourself with local knife ordinances in Michigan, as they can vary by city and have specific restrictions on the open carry of knives.
It’s crucial to be aware of the following points when considering Michigan knife laws:
- Michigan case law defines a ‘dagger’ as any knife with a blade over 3 inches that’s designed to be used as a weapon for bodily assault. Carrying a dagger concealed on your person is considered a felony, punishable by imprisonment.
- Possession of stabbing knives, such as dirks and stilettos, is illegal in Michigan. A person carrying such a weapon unlawfully can be guilty of a felony.
- While the open carry of knives is generally allowed in Michigan, certain cities have restrictions on the length of knives that can be openly carried.
Understanding these legal nuances is crucial for ensuring compliance with Michigan knife laws and avoiding legal repercussions.
This discussion leads to the subsequent section about ‘what knives are legal to own, possess, and carry in Michigan?’.
What Knives Are Legal to Own, Possess, and Carry in Michigan?
When considering what knives are legal to own, possess, and carry in Michigan, it’s important to be aware of the specific regulations governing different types of knives in the state.
Michigan knife laws allow the ownership and open carry of various types of knives, such as pocket knives, folding knives with blades under a certain length, swords, bayonets, axes, hatchets, throwing knives, and throwing stars.
However, it is unlawful to conceal carry double-edged fixed blade knives, daggers, dirks, stilettos, and double-edged nonfolding stabbing instruments.
It’s crucial to understand these regulations to ensure compliance with the law and to exercise your right to bear arms for self-defense.
Below is a table summarizing the legal status of different types of knives in Michigan.
| Legal to Own and Possess | Legal to Carry Openly | Legal to Carry Concealed |
|---|---|---|
| Pocket knives | Swords | Certain folding knives |
| Butterfly knives | Bayonets | – |
| Dirks | Axes | – |
| Daggers | Hatchets | – |
| Stilettos | Throwing knives | – |
| Throwing stars | – |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Legal Size Knife to Carry in Michigan?
In Michigan, you can legally carry a knife with a blade under 3 inches. This is allowed as long as it’s openly carried with lawful intent and doesn’t violate any specific local regulations or restrictions.
Can You Conceal Carry at Work in Michigan?
You can’t conceal carry at work in Michigan, but there are exceptions. Make sure you’re aware of the specific regulations in your area. It’s important to stay informed and understand your rights.
Is CCW a Felony in Michigan?
Yes, CCW is a felony in Michigan. It carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $2,500. It’s crucial to be aware of the laws to avoid serious consequences.
Are Switchblade Knives Illegal in Indiana?
Yes, switchblade knives are illegal in Indiana. It’s important to be aware of local knife laws when traveling.
Always check the specific regulations of the area you’re in to avoid any legal issues.
Conclusion
So, before you carry a knife in Michigan, make sure you know the laws.
In 2017, the prohibition on automatic knives was lifted, making them legal to carry.
However, schools and certain cities have their own restrictions, so be sure to check local ordinances.