Frequently Asked Questions

Is it a crime in North Carolina to...

• Carry a concealed weapon without a permit? Yes
• Carry a concealed weapon in an unauthorized building? Yes
• Possess a firearm as a convicted felon? Yes
• Possess a weapon of mass destruction? Yes
• Fail to secure weapons from falling into a minor's hands? Yes
• Possess any unlawful weapon if you are a minor? Yes

What can I do to help my community?

• Support programs that help people steer a new, law abiding course. For example: Participate in partnerships that bring police and parole officers together to enforce terms of parolees release or probation.
• Encourage young people to get involved in teen and youth courts in which peers help decide what should happen to youth who have broken the law.
• Participate in Neighborhood Watch initiatives that involve residents in reporting suspicious behavior and working to improve their skills, and mentoring programs.
• Support programs focus on children and young people, such as youth-serving facilities, like teen centers and Boys & Girls Club, classes to help parents improve their skills, and mentoring programs.
• Harness the energies of the faith community, schools, hospitals and clinics, businesses, community centers, youth serving organizations, and youth membership groups to help.

What can I do as an individual?

• If you suspect someone is in possession of an illegal gun (for example, a stolen weapon), report it to your local police or the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).
• If you suspect someone has a gun but is barred by law from having one (for example, someone who has been convicted of a crime), report it to those same authorities.
• Support your police and prosecutors.
• Store weapons in your home securely, separating ammunition from weapons.
• Keep weapons secure against theft. More than 300,000 guns are stolen in home burglaries annually.