Understanding knife rights in North Dakota requires familiarity with state laws regulating ownership, carry, and use of knives. While generally permissive, North Dakota distinguishes certain knives as “dangerous weapons” and imposes restrictions particularly on concealed carry.
Ownership and Types of Legal Knives
In North Dakota, it is legal to own virtually any type of knife. There are no statewide prohibitions on possession of switchblades, bowie knives, daggers, or other fixed or folding blades. The state law defines “dangerous weapons” to include knives with blades five inches or longer, switchblades, stilettos, swords, and daggers. However, possession alone is not illegal; it is the manner and intent of carrying or using the knife that matters.
Open Carry and Concealed Carry Regulations
North Dakota permits open carry of any knife without restriction. However, concealed carry rules are stricter. Concealing a knife classified as a dangerous weapon—such as those with blades longer than five inches, switchblades, or daggers—is prohibited unless the person holds a valid concealed firearms and dangerous weapons permit. This permit allows concealment of otherwise restricted knives legally.
Concealed carry of folding pocket knives with blades shorter than or equal to four inches is generally allowed without a license. Concealing larger or dangerous knives without the proper permit is considered a Class A misdemeanor, with possible penalties including fines and jail time.
Restricted Places and Exceptions
Carrying knives, particularly dangerous weapons, is prohibited in certain locations. These include schools, churches, publicly owned or operated buildings, and public gatherings such as sporting events. There are exceptions for law enforcement, military personnel, designated first responders, and licensed security personnel.
The state views the context and intent behind carrying knives seriously. Carrying a knife with the goal of committing a crime or causing harm can lead to aggravated charges beyond simple possession violations.
Sales and Transfers
North Dakota does not have specific statewide laws restricting the sale or transfer of knives. However, local ordinances might impose age restrictions or limit sales in certain contexts. Generally, knife sales to minors without parental consent are discouraged to prevent misuse.
Legal Risks and Penalties
Violating knife laws in North Dakota, such as carrying a concealed dangerous knife without a license or carrying knives in restricted zones, can result in criminal charges. These are classified as Class A misdemeanors, potentially punishable by up to 360 days in jail and fines up to $3,000.
Additionally, using knives unlawfully in violent crimes escalates penalties significantly. Courts assess knife-related offenses based on intent, type of knife, and location of carry or use.
North Dakota’s knife laws offer broad rights to own and openly carry knives of virtually any type. Restrictions primarily target concealed carry of dangerous knives and possession in sensitive locations. Holding a concealed firearms and dangerous weapons permit generally authorizes lawful concealed carry of otherwise restricted knives. Understanding these nuances helps residents and visitors comply with state law, ensuring their knife rights are protected while minimizing legal risks.
Sources
(https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/north-dakota/)
(https://knifeup.com/north-dakota-knife-laws/)
(https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/north-dakota-knife-laws/)
(https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state)
(https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/knife-laws-by-state)
