Pocket knives are useful tools that many people carry for work, hobbies, camping, or protection. But when it comes to carrying them in public, you might wonder — is it legal in Utah? Can teenagers carry them? Are some pocket knives considered illegal? This guide will help you understand Utah’s pocket knife laws in a simple and clear way, so you know what’s allowed and what’s not.
Are Pocket Knives Legal in Utah?
Yes, pocket knives are generally legal in Utah. The state has some of the most relaxed knife laws in the country. You can carry most types of pocket knives openly or concealed, whether for everyday use, outdoor activities, or personal protection.
Utah does not place many restrictions on the size of the blade or the type of knife — but there are still a few important rules to know, especially about intent and certain locations.
Open and Concealed Carry of Pocket Knives
In Utah, you are allowed to carry a pocket knife openly (where others can see it) or concealed (hidden in your pocket, bag, etc.). You do not need a special permit to carry a knife.
However, if a person is carrying a knife with the intent to harm someone, that’s illegal — even if the knife itself is legal. So it’s not the knife that gets you into trouble — it’s how you use it or why you’re carrying it.
Blade Size Rules in Utah
There is no statewide limit on blade length for pocket knives in Utah. Whether your knife is under 3 inches or over 5 inches, it is still legal to carry. However, some cities or schools may have their own rules about blade size.
For example, carrying a large knife on school property or into a government building may lead to legal problems, even if that same knife is legal to carry elsewhere.
Restricted Places Where Knives Are Not Allowed
Even though Utah law allows you to carry a pocket knife, some places have stricter rules. You cannot carry a knife into:
Schools (K-12 campuses)
Federal buildings
Courthouses or jails
Secure airport areas
Carrying a pocket knife in these locations can lead to criminal charges, especially if it is considered a weapon.
Are Automatic or Switchblade Knives Legal?
Yes, automatic knives, also called switchblades or spring-assisted knives, are legal in Utah. There are no restrictions on owning or carrying these types of knives, as long as you’re not using them to threaten or hurt someone.
This is good news for people who use these knives for work, farming, or everyday utility tasks.
Can Minors Carry Pocket Knives in Utah?
Minors (under 18) are allowed to carry pocket knives in Utah, but with caution. It depends on the type of knife and the situation. A simple folding knife used for fishing, camping, or school-approved activities is usually fine.
However, if a minor is caught with a knife on school property or uses it in a threatening way, it can lead to serious legal trouble, even if the knife seems small or harmless.
What If You Use a Knife as a Weapon?
If you use any knife — even a small pocket knife — to threaten, attack, or hurt someone, it becomes a dangerous weapon under Utah law. This can lead to serious criminal charges like assault with a weapon, even if the knife itself is normally legal to carry.
So while carrying a pocket knife is legal, misusing it can quickly lead to legal trouble.
Utah is a knife-friendly state where most types of pocket knives are legal to own and carry, both openly and concealed. You don’t need a permit, and there’s no blade length limit under state law. However, there are still some important rules — like not carrying knives in schools or federal buildings, and never using a knife to threaten or hurt someone.
As long as you carry your knife for the right reasons and avoid restricted areas, you’re on the safe side of the law. Whether you’re hiking, camping, working, or just staying prepared, Utah law respects your right to carry a pocket knife responsibly.
SOURCES
[1] https://utahcarrylaws.com/laws/utah/knives/
[2] https://nobliecustomknives.com/us-knife-laws/utah-knife-laws/
[3] https://www.carved.com/blogs/life-at-carved/pocket-knife-rules-laws-by-state
[4] https://www.egclegal.com/utah-knife-laws-a-detailed-exploration/
[5] https://www.shokuninusa.com/blogs/news/pocket-knife-laws-knife-length-laws-usa
