North Dakota has relatively lenient laws when it comes to owning and carrying knives. However, there are still some important rules you should know, especially about concealed carry, blade length, and where you can carry knives. This guide will explain what’s legal and what’s not.
What Knives Are Legal to Own in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, most types of knives are legal to own. This includes:
Folding knives
Pocket knives
Hunting knives
Kitchen knives
Switchblades
Gravity knives
There is no statewide ban on any specific type of knife. As long as you own a knife for lawful purposes, it’s legal.
Carrying Knives: Open vs. Concealed
Open Carry
Open carry of knives is allowed, meaning you can carry a knife in plain sight without any legal problems.
No blade length limit exists for open carry, so you can carry knives with long blades if you wish.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry means hiding the knife from view. Carrying certain knives in this way is more restricted.
Dangerous weapons include knives with blades of 5 inches or more, switchblades, gravity knives, machetes, scimitars, stilettos, swords, and daggers.
To carry a dangerous weapon concealed, you need a valid concealed weapons permit. You must be at least 18 years old and have a permit from North Dakota or another state with reciprocity.
Blade Length Restrictions
Blade Length and Carry Type
| Carry Type | Blade Length Restriction | Permit Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Open Carry | No restriction | No |
| Concealed Carry | 5 inches or more (dangerous) | Yes, for dangerous knives |
Where You Cannot Carry Knives
There are some places where knives are prohibited, including:
Schools
Government buildings
Courthouses
Airports
Prisons
Private businesses that don’t allow weapons
Public gatherings (when dangerous weapons are involved)
Age Restrictions
The general age for carrying a knife is 18. However, there might be exceptions if you’re hunting or taking part in outdoor activities. For concealed carry of dangerous knives, you must be 18 and have the right permit.
Knife Use and Intent
It’s illegal to carry a knife with the intention of using it to harm someone, unless you’re acting in self-defense. Using a knife in an unlawful way can lead to criminal charges, even if you’re carrying it for self-defense.
Local Knife Laws
While North Dakota has state laws, some cities have stricter local laws about carrying knives. Cities like Bismarck, Fargo, and Grand Forks might have their own rules, so it’s important to check local laws before carrying a knife in these areas.
Penalties for Breaking Knife Laws
If you break knife laws, like carrying a dangerous weapon concealed without a permit, you could face a Class B misdemeanor. This can result in:
Up to 30 days in jail
A fine of up to $1,500
Worse penalties could apply if the knife is used in a crime.
Special Considerations
Minors
Minors can own knives, but they may not be allowed to carry them in public without an adult or for certain types of knives.
Professional Use
If you’re a professional, such as a chef, you might be able to carry larger knives for work purposes. Exceptions exist for people who need knives for their job.
Sources:
1. https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/19/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-north-dakota-a-legal-guide/
2. https://knifeade.com/north-dakota-knife-law/
3. https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/north-dakota-knife-laws/
