Utah boasts one of the most permissive knife laws in the USA, allowing unrestricted ownership and carry of pocket knives for most adults. No blade length limits or bans on types like switchblades apply statewide, provided no criminal intent exists. Understanding nuances around “dangerous weapons” and restricted persons ensures compliance amid Utah’s emphasis on responsible use.
Definition of Pocket Knives and Dangerous Weapons
Utah Code §76-10-501 defines knives broadly, with pocket knives as folding instruments designed for everyday utility. “Dangerous weapon” status depends on context—primary purpose, wound potential, use manner, and public threat—per §76-1-601, not inherent design. A pocket knife like a Swiss Army tool stays legal for camping, fishing, or work; brandishing it threateningly elevates it to misdemeanor under §76-10-506.
No restricted knives exist—no switchblade, balisong, or automatic bans—making Utah friendly for folders, fixed blades, and multi-tools.
Open and Concealed Carry Permissions
Utah permits open and concealed carry of any knife without permits for non-restricted persons, per constitutional carry extensions to blades. Pocket knives clip visibly or slip pocket-deep legally, aligning with gun holster freedoms. Uniformity via §76-10-500 preempts local rules, ensuring statewide consistency—no municipal blade limits.
Age 18+ generally suffices, though minors face scrutiny under §76-10-509.7 for parental knowledge of possession. Military/law enforcement exemptions broaden via §76-10-523.
Prohibited Locations and Exemptions
Schools K-12 and higher education ban knives under §76-10-505.5, with felonies for armed threats. Airports, courthouses, and secure zones follow federal overlays, but public parks and trails allow carry. Businesses post notices enforceable as trespass; alcohol venues permit unless revoked.
Hunting/fishing exemptions deem knives tools, not weapons (§76-10-504). Vehicles store openly or console-hidden without issue.
Criminal Intent and Penalties
Possession with intent (§76-10-507) or threatening use (§76-10-506) constitutes Class A misdemeanor: up to 364 days jail, $2,500 fine. Felons prohibited under restricted person rules (§76-10-503), with violations compounding sentences. Sales to felons illegal, but private transfers lack checks.
Courts assess totality—EDC pocket knives rarely trigger, but gang-related displays do.
Practical Tips for Utah Knife Carriers
Carry quality folders like Benchmade or Spyderco for daily tasks, sheathed fixed blades for outdoors. Train in legal self-defense per §76-2-402 castle doctrine, proportional to threats. If stopped, disclose calmly; footage aids defenses. Join Utah Firearm Forum for updates—no 2026 changes noted.
SOURCES:
- https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/utah/
- https://www.egclegal.com/utah-knife-laws-a-detailed-exploration/
