Utah Tech University (UT) complies with all applicable state and federal laws regarding weapons on campus. Under Utah law, the open carrying of any dangerous weapon on university premises is strictly prohibited, while concealed carry is permitted under specific legal frameworks.
Open Carry Restrictions
Under Utah Code § 76-11-205.5, it is a class C misdemeanor to openly carry a dangerous weapon, including firearms, on or about the premises of an institution of higher education. This restriction applies to all individuals, including concealed carry permit holders.
Exceptions to the open carry restriction include:
- On-duty local, state, or federal law enforcement officers.
- An individual lawfully responding to an active threat.
- Carrying a weapon at one’s own campus residence or real property.
- Transporting a weapon within a personally controlled (non-university) vehicle.
- Possessing a weapon with prior, explicit approval from the responsible school administrator for a lawful, school-sanctioned purpose.
Concealed Carry Guidelines
Concealed carry of a firearm is permitted on the Utah Tech University campus under the following conditions:
- Individuals 21 and Older: May carry a concealed firearm without a permit, provided they are not otherwise legally prohibited from possessing a firearm (Utah Code § 53-5a-102.2).
- Individuals 18 to 20: May carry a concealed firearm only if they possess a valid Utah provisional concealed carry permit (Utah Code § 53-5a-304) or a recognized permit from another state.