Effective 7/1/2025
Please see below for Frequently Asked Questions regarding concealed carry at the University of Wyoming. This is provided for information purposes only. Please contact UW General Counsel or the University of Wyoming Police Department for any additional questions.
Generally, yes. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104(a)(iv) allows for “permit-less carry” or “constitutional carry,” meaning a person without a valid permit may still carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming as long as they would otherwise qualify for a permit or they possess a concealed carry permit issued by a state with reciprocity for concealed carry permits. However, pursuant to Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-105, in most instances you must have a permit to concealed carry a handgun in University facilities.
No. The law allows only Wyoming-issued permit holders to carry a concealed handgun in University facilities, and only on some parts of campus (see below for exclusions).
Yes, but not in University facilities. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-401 states that “the right to keep and bear arms is a fundamental right. The Wyoming legislature affirms this right as a constitutionally protected right in every part of Wyoming.” Additionally, the statute clarifies that only the “state legislature” can regulate the “sale, transfer, purchase, delivery, taxation, manufacture, ownership, transportation, storage, use and possession of firearms, weapons, and ammunition.”
No. During the 2025 Wyoming legislative session, the Repeal Gun Free Zones and Preemption Amendments, HB 0172, House Enrolled Act No. 24, was passed by both houses. This new law allows concealed carry on the University campus but authorizes the University to prohibit the open carry of firearms in its facilities or on its campus. See Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-105(d)(iii) effective July 1, 2025. UW Regulation 6-4 prohibits the open carry of firearms specifically in its facilities.
"Campus Carry" is the common name for the law that authorizes a permit holder to carry a concealed handgun at institutions of higher education in Wyoming. Campus carry was authorized by the Repeal Gun Free Zones and Preemption Amendments, HB 0172, House Enrolled Act No. 24 (2025), which is codified as Wyo. Stat. §6-8-105.
"Campus Carry" is the common name for the law that authorizes a permit holder to carry a concealed handgun at institutions of higher education in Wyoming. Campus carry was authorized by the Repeal Gun Free Zones and Preemption Amendments, HB 0172, House Enrolled Act No. 24 (2025), which is codified as Wyo. Stat. §6-8-105.
No. The law does not grant a universal right to carry a concealed weapon on campus. The law allows only Wyoming-issued permit holders to carry a concealed handgun, and only on some parts of campus (see below for exclusions).
Generally, an applicant must meet nine distinct standards to receive a concealed carry permit in Wyoming: (1) has been a legal resident of Wyoming for six months prior to application; (2) is at least 21 years of age; (3) does not suffer from a physical infirmity which prevents the safe handling of a firearm; (4) is not ineligible to possess a firearm pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 922(g) (prohibits the possession of a firearm by convicted felons, fugitives, users of controlled substances, those adjudicated mentally defective, illegal aliens, dishonorably discharged veterans, those who have renounced their U.S. citizenship, and those under a court order relating to, or having been convicted of domestic violence) or Wyo. Stat. 6-8-102 (criminalizes the use or possession of a firearm by convicted felons in Wyoming); (5) has not been committed to a state of federal facility for the abuse of a controlled substance within one year prior to application, or has not have been convicted of certain felonies or misdemeanors under the Wyoming Controlled Substances act or similar laws or other states or the United States; (6) does not chronically or habitually use alcoholic liquor and malt beverages to the extent that normal faculties are impaired; (7) demonstrates familiarity with a firearm; (8) is not currently adjudicated to be legally incompetent; and (9) has not been committed to a mental institution.
Applicants for a concealed carry permit in Wyoming must demonstrate familiarity with a handgun by taking and satisfactorily completing a handgun use and safety course taught by a qualified instructor. (Exemptions from parts of this requirement exist for certain applicants, such as those with applicable military service.)
Please refer to Wyo. Stat. §6-8-104 for exact eligibility requirements.
Wyoming state law permits eligible persons to apply for and receive a permit to carry a concealed handgun on their person.
The statute covers only handguns. A handgun is any pistol, revolver or derringer, designed to be fired by the use of a single hand. Other weapons — rifles or shotguns — are not permitted in University facilities but can be stored at the University of Wyoming Police Department (UWPD).
Yes. Under Wyoming’s current law, if you are a permit holder from another state, your permit is valid statewide, and your state recognizes (or honors) Wyoming permits, you can generally carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming. However, for purposes of Campus Carry, this would not permit that individual to carry in University facilities since it is not a Wyoming-issued permit.
During the 2024 Wyoming legislative session, the Repeal Gun Free Zones and Preemption Amendments, HB 0125, House Enrolled Act No. 49 (HB 0125), was passed by both houses but vetoed by Governor Gordon on March 22, 2024. The Bill would have specifically permitted that anyone lawfully carrying a concealed weapon to do so at “[a]ny public school, public college or university athletic event taking place on public property that does not sell alcoholic beverages” and “[a]ny public college or university facility.” The Bill would have given the legislature preemption of state entities, including the University, to regulate the storage, use, and possession of firearms.
Although the Governor vetoed the bill, his veto memo reinforced his support for the Second Amendment and advocated for “firearm freedom.” His veto was not based on an opposition to repealing gun-free zones, but rather that he viewed the legislation as the erosion of local control norms, and “giving sole authority to the legislature to micromanage a constitutionally protected right.” He also stated that were the bill enacted, it “would augment the Legislature's reach into local firearms regulation” and extend the separation of powers of the Wyoming Constitution. The Governor called on “school districts, community colleges, and the University [of Wyoming] to take up these difficult conversations again and establish policies that allow for the safe carry of concealed weapons within their facilities.”
To comply with the Governor’s directive, the University’s Board of Trustees reviewed a proposed rule at its November 2024 meeting that would have allowed for concealed carry in University facilities, with certain exclusions. After hearing extensive open comments from the public and University community through a survey, town halls, Q&A sessions, and presentations, the Board voted (6-5) to not modify the total ban of firearms on campus.
However, with the new Campus Carry law passed in February 2025, the University is required to update its policies to come into compliance by July 1, 2025.
Yes, the University will monitor its impact on faculty, staff, students, and visitors.
No. The University may only adopt policies consistent with the law.
Yes. Wyoming state law prohibits handguns and other weapons in certain places, including the following:
See below for the list of University facilities and premises where a concealed carry permit holder cannot carry a concealed handgun.
No. The concealed carry of handguns is prohibited in health service settings, including those areas in which professional mental health services are provided. See below for the list of University facilities where a concealed carry permit holder cannot carry a concealed handgun. It is advised that you check in advance regarding the status of the area you will be visiting to make sure that handguns are not excluded from the location.
In an emergency, health service staff may call UWPD to hold the handgun for safekeeping.
Yes, if you are at least 21 years of age (or 18 with consent from the appropriate sheriff) and have a Wyoming-issued concealed carry permit; however, the handgun must be secured in a biometric firearms storage container or a lock box within your direct control if it cannot be secured on your person (for example, while you are sleeping, changing, taking a shower, etc.). Firearms storage container or lock box is defined as a locked, hard-sided safe, gun case, or similar secure device designed specifically for storing firearms when not in use. Direct control of a firearm storage container or a lock box refers to the authority and ability to access it, even if it is not in the individual's immediate physical possession at all times. This means the individual must retain control over the key, combination, or other access mechanisms to ensure that only authorized individuals can open or use the lock box. Additionally, the firearm storage container or a lock box must be securely placed and protected to prevent unauthorized access, theft, or misuse, allowing the individual to maintain control and oversight. Firearm storage containers may be bought locally at sporting goods stores or through online retailers.
Yes. The University does not regulate the lawful carrying or storage of firearms in University apartments.
Yes, but only in certain areas. The concealed carry of handguns is prohibited in athletic training service areas and the Wellness Center at Half Acre. Concealed handguns are allowed in the remaining areas (with a Wyoming-issued permit) but must be secured in a biometric firearms storage container or a lock box within your direct control if it cannot be secured on your person (for example, while you are climbing, swimming, dancing, working out, changing, taking a shower, etc.). Firearms storage container or lock box is defined as a locked, hard-sided safe, gun case, or similar secure device designed specifically for storing firearms when not in use. Direct control of a firearm storage container or a lock box refers to the authority and ability to access it, even if it is not in the individual's immediate physical possession at all times. This means the individual must retain control over the key, combination, or other access mechanisms to ensure that only authorized individuals can open or use the lock box. Additionally, the firearm storage container or a lock box must be securely placed and protected to prevent unauthorized access, theft, or misuse, allowing the individual to maintain control and oversight. Firearm storage containers may be bought locally at sporting goods stores or through online retailers.
Likely, yes. The Campus Carry law only applies to University-owned facilities, not University grounds or activities. If the event, trip, or fieldwork is not in a University-facility or is off campus, then Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104 allows any person with a valid permit or without a valid permit to carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming as long as they would otherwise qualify for a permit or they possess a concealed carry permit issued by a state with reciprocity for concealed carry permits. It is the responsibility of the concealed carry permit holder to know and understand the concealed carry laws of the location or facility where the event, trip, or fieldwork is taking place.
Likely, yes. The Campus Carry law only applies to University-owned facilities, not University vehicles. Wyo. Stat. § 6-8-104 allows any person with a valid permit or without a valid permit to carry a concealed firearm in Wyoming as long as they would otherwise qualify for a permit or they possess a concealed carry permit issued by a state with reciprocity for concealed carry permits. It is the responsibility of the concealed carry permit holder to know and understand the concealed carry laws of the location where a University vehicle is parked, traveling, or positioned.
Likely, yes. The University leases space from Casper College to provide opportunities for students to earn University baccalaureate and master’s degrees, certificates, and professional development credit. The new Campus Carry law applies broadly to any public college or University facility. It is the responsibility of the concealed carry permit holder to know and understand the concealed carry rules of any Casper College facility.
Maybe. If the University owns the facility, then the Campus Carry law applies and Wyoming-issued permit holders may carry a concealed handgun (see below for exclusions). If the University does not own the facility, then the facility’s concealed carry rules shall apply. It is the responsibility of the concealed carry permit holder to know and understand the concealed carry rules of the facility.
It is advised that you check in advance regarding the status of the area you will be visiting to make sure that handguns are not excluded from the location. You may use your normal work breaks, including lunch, if necessary, to store your gun at the UW Police Department (UWPD), in your car, at a location off campus, or within a concealed biometric firearms storage container or a lock box within your direct control. Firearms storage container or lock box is defined as a locked, hard-sided safe, gun case, or similar secure device designed specifically for storing firearms when not in use. Direct control of a firearm storage container or a lock box refers to the authority and ability to access it, even if it is not in the individual's immediate physical possession at all times. This means the individual must retain control over the key, combination, or other access mechanisms to ensure that only authorized individuals can open or use the lock box. Additionally, the firearm storage container or a lock box must be securely placed and protected to prevent unauthorized access, theft, or misuse, allowing the individual to maintain control and oversight. Firearm storage containers may be bought locally at sporting goods stores or through online retailers.
Call the UW Police Department (UWPD) (307-766-5179) or 911. A concealed carry permit holder is required to keep the handgun out of sight. While brief, inadvertent exposure of a concealed handgun, including transfer of a handgun from a permit holder’s person to a firearm storage container and the imprint of a handgun under a permit holder’s clothes, may not rise to a violation of the law or University policy, if you see a person on campus with a weapon, you can help with campus safety by alerting police about suspicious activity.
Yes, as long as it is properly concealed.
The UW Police Department (UWPD) encourages all faculty, staff, and students to view the “Run, Hide, Fight” active shooter training video. UWPD will provide additional training specific to the University of Wyoming and a module in HCM/WyoLearn for new employee onboarding, annual refresher, and on-demand training.
If you see a gun, call the UW Police Department (UWPD) (307-766-5179) or 911.
Campus carry requires that handguns remain concealed at all times with no exceptions. While brief, inadvertent exposure of a concealed handgun, including transfer of a handgun from a permit holder’s person to a firearm storage container and the imprint of a handgun under a permit holder’s clothes, may not rise to a violation of the law or University policy, if you see a person on campus with a weapon, you can help with campus safety by alerting police about suspicious activity.
Notify law enforcement via 911 or UWPD (307-766-517), and UWPD will arrive and assess the situation. Persons who violate these laws and policies are subject to penalties and fines in addition to disciplinary action imposed by the University.
If your class is in a location where your cell phone does not get reception, identify the nearest location you can make a call at the beginning of the semester so you know where to go, if needed. If you have a teaching assistant, have them leave and find the best place to call UWPD (307-766-5179) or 911.
No. Even if a faculty member were to ask, the concealed carry permit holder is not required to respond. Under Wyoming law, only law enforcement can verify whether a person is carrying and has a concealed carry permit.
The concealed carry of handguns is prohibited in the following University facilities and premises:
Event includes competition, contest, game, practice, or pre-event activities. For the avoidance of doubt, this exclusion does not include athletic areas at times when alcohol is not being served (e.g., if there is no event or activity taking place where alcohol is being served, then handguns are allowed if the holder has a Wyoming-issued concealed carry permit).
This exclusion does not include materials that are either an insufficient amount or in a form such that the material could not reasonably cause bodily injury due to the material’s explosive or volatile nature. In general, any laboratory, room, or storage area that contains chemical(s) with a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 704 label that lists a particular chemical(s) as a 3 or higher in any category of flammability, instability, or health hazard or is listed as radioactive, water reactive, oxidizer, or simple asphyxiant in the special hazard or has biohazardous agents or toxins will likely meet this exception. Please contact the University Safety Office to determine if your laboratory, room, or storage area meets the exclusion.
Explosives are defined as any chemical compound, mixture, or device, the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion, i.e., with substantially instantaneous release of gas and heat.
Volatile substances are characterized by their high vapor pressure and low boiling points, allowing them to exist as gases or vapors at room temperature. Examples include but not limited to:
Alcohols: Ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol.
Explosive Precursors: Nitroglycerin and triacetone triperoxide (TATP).
Hydrocarbons: Benzene, toluene, and xylene.
Ketones: Acetone and methyl ethyl ketone.
Organic Solvents: Chloroform, ether, and trichloroethylene.
Toxins: Carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and volatile organophosphates.
Yes, but any signs must be approved by the applicable Vice President, Dean, or Director and be approved and installed through UW Operations. The cost of these signs will be covered centrally by UW Operations.
Criminal penalties for those who violate the law and University polices can vary depending on the violation. Those punishments can include loss of license by the permit holder, significant fines and penalties, or even time in jail. UWPD will investigate all reported cases and make the appropriate decision based on the facts provided. The University will also investigate the violation and may impose a sanction, up to and including termination for employees and expulsion for students.
No. Academic personnel cannot ban the concealed carry of handguns in their classrooms. Language in Wyo. Stat. §6-8-105(e) specifically forbids the prohibition of lawfully carrying of a concealed weapon into a place authorized by statute.
If the inherent nature or requirements of the class would make the concealed carry of a handgun difficult, clearly communicate to your students the requirements of the class. For example, some active dance classes require the free movement and physical interaction that could inadvertently reveal someone who is trying to carry a concealed handgun. Encourage your students who are licensed to carry and choose to carry a handgun to think through their day and plan accordingly, which may mean leaving their handgun at home, secured in a private vehicle, or secured in a biometric lock box within the person’s direct control. It is the responsibility of the concealed carry permit holder to know and understand the University polices regarding campus carry.
Yes, but only the open carry of firearms. Concealed carry permit holders with a valid Wyoming permit may conceal carry in offices.
Yes, but only the open carry of firearms. You are not allowed to prohibit concealed carry holders with valid Wyoming permits from entering your office with a concealed handgun. If an individual comes to your office visibly displaying a firearm, please call UWPD (307-766-5179) or 911.
You may. However, please remember that you may not restrict the rights of an individual with a valid Wyoming concealed carry permit to conceal carry within the classroom. Any language used on syllabi must have prior written approval by the Provost’s Office.
Yes, but only if your class requires a health services setting, is in the ECEC, or is in an area where explosive or volatile materials are present as designated by the UW Safety Office. Any classrooms that request to be excluded for the above reasons must receive prior written approval from the Provost’s Office.
