Understanding the legal landscape for pocket knives in North Dakota involves both state regulations and local ordinances. While the state is generally permissive, there are important restrictions and nuances to be aware of.
Statewide Regulations
Legal Ownership
It is legal to own any type of knife in North Dakota, including folding knives, pocket knives, hunting knives, and kitchen knives.
There are no statewide laws specifically prohibiting the possession of pocket knives.
Open Carry
Open carry of knives, including pocket knives, is generally legal throughout the state with no specific blade length restrictions at the state level.
Using a knife to threaten or harm someone is illegal, regardless of the type or blade length.
Concealed Carry
Concealed carry of knives is regulated:
Any knife with a blade of five inches or more is classified as a “dangerous weapon” and cannot be carried concealed without a valid North Dakota concealed weapon license or a permit from a state with reciprocity.
Folding pocket knives with blades less than five inches are generally permitted for concealed carry without a license.
Concealing knives like switchblades, gravity knives, daggers, or stilettos may be subject to additional restrictions, especially if the blade exceeds five inches.
Age Restrictions
The minimum age to own or carry a pocket knife is generally 18 years old, except for certain outdoor activities like hunting, where minors may carry knives under supervision.
Local Ordinances
North Dakota does not have a preemption law for knives, meaning cities and counties can enact their own knife regulations.
Some cities, such as Fargo and Grand Forks, may have stricter blade length limits (often 3-4 inches) or additional restrictions on automatic knives and concealed carry.
Always check local ordinances before carrying a pocket knife, as what is legal in one city may not be in another.
Prohibited Areas
Carrying any knife, including pocket knives, is typically prohibited in:
Schools and school zones
Government buildings
Courthouses
Airports and secure facilities
Certain businesses with posted restrictions
Penalties
Violating knife laws in North Dakota can result in a misdemeanor, with penalties ranging from fines up to $3,000 and/or up to 360 days in jail, depending on the severity and circumstances.
Table: Pocket Knife Laws in North Dakota
| Category | State Law Status | Local Variation Possible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal to Own | Yes | Yes | Most types allowed |
| Open Carry | Yes | Yes | No state blade length limit |
| Concealed Carry | Blade < 5″: Yes; Blade ≥ 5″: License | Yes | License needed for ≥ 5″ blade |
| Age Restriction | 18+ (exceptions for hunting, etc.) | Yes | Local rules may vary |
| Restricted Locations | Yes | Yes | Schools, government buildings, etc. |
| Local Ordinances Allowed | Yes | N/A | Check city/county rules |
Sources:
1. https://knifeup.com/north-dakota-knife-laws/
2. https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/19/understanding-your-knife-rights-in-north-dakota-a-legal-guide/
3. https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
