Louisiana’s knife laws have undergone significant changes in recent years, culminating in a major reform with the signing of Senate Bill 194 in 2024, which fully preempts local knife ordinances and establishes uniform rules for knife ownership and carry throughout the state. This sweeping legislation effectively removes all local restrictions on knives, ensuring that citizens enjoy consistent rights regardless of the city or parish within Louisiana. Before this reform, some municipalities had their own nuanced rules, which could confuse law-abiding knife owners. With SB 194, any local laws that were more restrictive than state law are now overridden, providing clarity and uniformity.
At present, Louisiana allows the open and concealed carry of almost all types of knives. This includes switchblades (automatic knives), which historically faced extensive restrictions. Previously, the concealed carry of switchblades was illegal, but this ban was repealed, allowing residents to carry switchblades openly or concealed without legal penalty. The only real restriction on concealed knives pertains to the “intentional concealment” of certain automatic knives, but the latest legal interpretations and amendments have eased these limitations considerably.
There are no statewide restrictions on the sale or transfer of knives, and no blade length limitations affect ownership or carry, unlike in some other states. That said, knives must not be carried on school property, including elementary, secondary, and vocational schools, as well as school buses and during school functions. This aligns with broader weapon restrictions to maintain safety in educational environments.
Louisiana law defines some knives as dangerous weapons under certain circumstances, particularly if carried with the intent to use unlawfully against another. Carrying a knife for criminal purposes remains illegal, and violations of this principle carry severe consequences. Law enforcement officers and military personnel are generally exempt from restrictions when using knives for official duties.
Despite the blanket statewide preemption, some major cities, such as Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport, still have specific ordinances regarding knives. For instance, Baton Rouge prohibits switchblades outright, New Orleans bans possession of weapons at demonstrations, and Shreveport restricts weapons in government facilities. These localized restrictions exist within the framework of state law but tend to regulate the use or presence of knives in sensitive areas rather than outright bans on possession or carry.
Louisiana’s knife laws are among the most permissive in the United States, marked by a clear policy supporting knife ownership, open carry, and, to a large extent, concealed carry of almost all knife types. The 2024 law preempting local restrictions simplifies the legal landscape significantly, providing residents with consistency and fewer legal risks related to knife ownership. However, knives cannot be carried on school grounds or school-related events, and unlawful use is prohibited with serious penalties. Individuals should be aware of specific local ordinances in cities where exceptions may apply. Overall, responsible knife ownership and adherence to these laws ensures compliance and the safe exercise of one’s knife rights across Louisiana.
Sources
[1] https://kniferights.org/legislative-update/louisiana-knife-law-preemption-bill-signed/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/louisiana/
[3] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/louisiana-knife-laws/
[4] https://ravencresttactical.com/louisiana-knife-laws/
[5] https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
