Concealed Carry Expanded: Wyoming Officially Ends Most Gun-Free Zones

CHEYENNE, WY — House Bill 0172, known as the Wyoming Repeal Gun-Free Zones Act, officially went into effect on July 1, 2025, removing most location-based restrictions on concealed carry across the state. Here’s what gun owners and the public need to know now that the law is active:

Where You Can Carry

Under this law, individuals lawfully carrying concealed weapons in Wyoming may now carry in:

• Government meetings (city councils, county commissions, legislative sessions)  
• Public state buildings (including Capitol and state offices) unless specifically exempted  
• Public airports, in areas not barred by federal regulations  
• Public K–12 schools, colleges, universities, and athletic events on public property — but only for individuals with a valid Wyoming concealed carry permit  

Additionally, Wyoming’s permitless carry law allows residents to carry concealed without a permit—and they too may carry into most government buildings as specified.

Where Carry Remains Prohibited

Despite widespread expansion, several sensitive locations remain off-limits:

• Courthouses, jails, and law enforcement facilities  
• Health and human services facilities, including treatment centers  
• Facilities with explosive or volatile materials  
• Federal restrictions, such as secure airport zones and federally managed spaces  
• Private property, where the owner has posted a lawful gun prohibition  

Courthouses and law enforcement buildings are explicitly exempt. Public school employees and volunteers must adhere to school district rules and training if carrying on school grounds.

Enforcement and Penalties

• A misdemeanor offense awaits anyone who knowingly denies entry to a lawful concealed carrier into an authorized location, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a $2,000 fine .
• The State Building Commission enacted emergency rules on June 17; permanent rules were adopted by July 9 to usher the expanded access into effect.

School District Rules

• Districts may allow staff and volunteers to carry in schools and on campuses, but must establish training:
  • Minimum 16 hours live-fire and 8 hours scenario training, plus annual 12-hour recertification.
• If a district takes no action, permit-holders may still carry per state law. Rural schools may receive exemptions from training requirements  .
• Local boards must update signage and policies by the start of the school year.

In Practice: Early Rollout

• As of July 1, most state government buildings have removed “no guns” signs, replacing them only where restrictions remain.
• Some districts, such as Teton County, have implemented new door decals and safety protocols for school carry; others are still finalizing training and signage.

Final Take

With HB 0172 now law, Wyoming has largely eliminated gun-free zones in public spheres, giving law-abiding citizens carrying concealed weapons increased freedom and responsibility. Exceptions remain for highly sensitive and federally regulated spaces. A misdemeanor penalty ensures compliance from institutions, and structured training—especially for school personnel—adds checks and balances.

HB 0172 is fully active, with clear rules, exceptions, and enforcement mechanisms. Law enforcement and local officials are now implementing the practical aspects of the law.

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