VIDEO: Dallas Open Carry rules and restrictions outlined
Starting Jan. 1, 2016, Texans will be allowed to carry handguns in plain view, in accordance with House Bill 910. Individuals who obtain a License to Carry (LTC) or have a valid concealed handgun license (CHL) will be able to carry their weapon in plain view, when properly secured in a belt or shoulder holster.
- Removal of the gun from a secured holster
- When a gun holder seems intoxicated
- When the gun holder is obviously committing a crime or acting in a reckless or suspicious manner.
The City of Dallas is training 311 and 911 calltakers on the new laws and regulations to ensure they are able to answer concerned citizen’s questions. Dallas Police Department has trained all officers on the new laws so they are aware of what is legal and what is a violation under the new open carry law.
LTC holders are prohibited from carrying in certain locations such as worship centers, amusement parks, and governmental meetings subject to the Texas Open Meetings Act, in accordance with the Texas Penal Code.
Dallas City Hall will prohibit handguns during City Council or other governmental meetings (e.g. Park Board, City Planning Commission, Animal Shelter Commission, etc.). City Hall will also prohibit handguns during times when the building serves as an official polling place.
Handguns will not be allowed at high school, collegiate or professional sporting events or interscholastic events at the Dallas Convention Center and the Cotton Bowl.
