Gun laws in Wisconsin

Gun Laws in Wisconsin
Enacted	Various
Related legislation
Second Amendment to the United States Constitution

Gun laws in Wisconsin regulate the sale, possession, and use of firearms and ammunition in the state of Wisconsin, United States. The state's laws are subject to the federal firearms regulations set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) as well as local county and city ordinances. Wisconsin is known for having laws that are relatively permissive compared to other states, reflecting the state's strong hunting culture and the Second Amendment rights.

Overview

Wisconsin allows residents and non-residents to purchase and possess firearms, provided they comply with federal background check requirements and state regulations. The state does not require a permit to purchase firearms, nor does it implement a waiting period for firearm purchases. However, a concealed carry license is required for carrying handguns either openly or concealed.

Concealed Carry

In 2011, Wisconsin passed a law allowing for the concealed carry of handguns. Individuals wishing to carry a concealed weapon must apply for a Wisconsin Concealed Carry Permit through the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Applicants must pass a background check and complete a firearms training course.

Open Carry

Wisconsin is an "open carry" state, meaning that it is legal for individuals to carry firearms openly without a permit. However, there are restrictions in certain places such as schools, government buildings, and establishments that serve alcohol.

Firearm Prohibitions

Certain individuals are prohibited from possessing firearms under Wisconsin law, including those convicted of felonies, individuals found to be mentally incompetent, and those subject to restraining orders related to domestic violence.

Castle Doctrine

Wisconsin has a "Castle Doctrine" law, which provides legal protection to individuals who use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves, their home, or others in situations where they feel threatened. This law presumes that the use of force is justified if it occurs in one's home, vehicle, or place of business.

Recent Changes and Legal Challenges

Gun laws in Wisconsin have been subject to changes and legal challenges over the years. Recent legislative efforts have focused on areas such as background checks for private sales and the regulation of "ghost guns" — firearms that are assembled from parts and lack serial numbers.

See Also

• Firearm laws in the United States by state
• Concealed carry in the United States
• Open carry in the United States
• Second Amendment to the United States Constitution