In Utah in 2025, knife laws are generally very permissive compared to other states. It is legal to own, carry, and openly carry any type or length of knife, including butterfly knives, daggers, bowie knives, switchblades, and disguised knives. There are no specific blade length restrictions or outright bans on particular kinds of knives under Utah state law. Concealed carry of knives is also broadly allowed, with no statute explicitly prohibiting it regardless of blade size.
However, the legality of carrying a knife does not protect unlawful use. A knife used or intended to be used in a criminal manner may be classified as a “dangerous weapon,” which carries legal penalties. Utah law defines a “dangerous weapon” as any object that, by how it is used or intended to be used, is capable of causing death or serious bodily injury. Whether a knife qualifies as a dangerous weapon depends on factors such as the location and circumstance of its possession, primary purpose, manner of use, and any injury caused.
Certain public places restrict the possession or carrying of knives. For example, possession on school premises is prohibited and carries penalties. Other restricted locations typically include courthouses, state or federal buildings, or secured government facilities. Local municipalities in Utah generally cannot enact more restrictive knife laws than the state due to preemption, meaning state law uniformly governs knife regulations statewide.
Individuals prohibited from carrying knives under Utah law mainly include convicted felons and persons with certain mental health issues or illegal drug use, as defined under the state’s restricted person statutes. Law enforcement officers and military personnel often have exceptions within their official duties.
Notably, federal legislation known as the Knife Owners’ Protection Act of 2025, introduced by Utah Senator Mike Lee and others, aims to protect the interstate transportation of knives in compliance with lawful storage and accessibility requirements, although this is pending further legislative progress.
Utah knife law in 2025 permits possession and carry of all types of knives openly or concealed without blade length restrictions, except in restricted areas or by legally restricted persons. Unlawful use or possession with criminal intent, carrying on school premises, or violating other localized rules can result in penalties. Travelers should also be aware of evolving federal bills concerning knife transport.
If you need advice about carrying knives in specific places or situations in Utah, consulting a local attorney or official current sources is recommended to ensure full compliance.
Would you like a detailed explanation of the allowed knife types or specific restricted locations in Utah?
Sources
[1] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/utah-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.akti.org/state-knife-laws/utah/
[3] https://handgunlaw.us/documents/USKnife2.pdf
[4] https://utahcarrylaws.com/laws/utah/knives/
[5] https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
