Texas Gun Laws

Texas law specifies locations where carrying a firearm is prohibited or restricted. Prohibited locations: Schools, polling places during voting, government courts, racetracks, secured airport areas, and businesses deriving 51% or more of income from alcohol sales (51% signs). Private property: Businesses and private property owners can prohibit firearms through proper signage. 30.05 (trespass notice), 30.06 (concealed carry prohibition), and 30.07 (open carry prohibition) signs carry the force of law. Workplace rules: Employers may have policies restricting firearms on premises. These policies may not always carry criminal penalties but can result in termination. Vehicle carry: Without an LTC, a handgun must be concealed in a vehicle. With an LTC, open or concealed carry in a vehicle is permitted.

Texas law allows the use of force — and in some cases deadly force — to protect yourself, others, and property. Understanding the boundaries is essential. Self-defense: You may use force when you reasonably believe it is immediately necessary to protect against unlawful force. Deadly force is only justified when you reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death, serious bodily injury, or certain violent crimes. Castle Doctrine: In your home, you are presumed to have a reasonable fear of harm if someone unlawfully enters. This provides strong legal protection for defensive actions inside your residence. Duty to retreat: Texas does not impose a duty to retreat before using force if you have a right to be where you are, did not provoke the person, and are not engaged in criminal activity. Property protection: Deadly force to protect property is extremely limited. Force against force is generally allowed; deadly force is only permitted in specific circumstances involving arson, burglary, or robbery at night. Warning: This is educational context, not legal advice. Consult a Texas attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

Transporting firearms in Texas requires understanding both state and federal rules. Vehicle transport: A handgun may be carried in a vehicle without a license if concealed. With an LTC, open or concealed carry is permitted. Long guns (rifles, shotguns) do not require a license for vehicle transport. Air travel: Firearms must be declared, unloaded, and stored in a locked hard-sided container in checked baggage. Ammunition must be in original packaging or a secure container. Across state lines: When traveling through other states, you are subject to their laws. The Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA) provides safe passage protection if the firearm is legal at both origin and destination and is stored in a locked container in the trunk. Hotels and temporary lodging: Texas law treats your temporary lodging as your residence for Castle Doctrine purposes. Always check current laws before traveling, as regulations change.

Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school zone. Texas law provides additional restrictions. School property: Firearms are prohibited on school grounds, school buses, and at school-sponsored activities. This applies to public and private K-12 schools. College campuses: Texas allows concealed carry on public university campuses with an LTC, subject to reasonable rules and exclusion zones. Private universities may opt out entirely. Open carry is prohibited on all campuses. Government buildings: Courts, correctional facilities, and certain government offices prohibit firearms. Look for proper 30.06/30.07 signage. Hospitals and nursing homes: If properly posted with 30.06/30.07, firearms are prohibited. Polling places: Firearms are prohibited while voting is being conducted. Racetracks: Horse and dog racing tracks prohibit firearms. When in doubt, disarm and secure your firearm before entering any government or educational facility.