Kentucky Firearm Laws :: American Gun Owners Alliance

The Administrative Office of the Courts shall support the responsibilities of the Department of Kentucky State Police in the administration of KRS 237.110 by providing information:
1. Possessed by the courts with regard to the suitability of an applicant for a license under KRS 237.110; and
2. Possessed by the courts which may result in the revocation or suspension of a license issued pursuant to KRS 237.110.
The Administrative Office of the Courts shall transmit information regarding a licensee which may result in the revocation or suspension of a license issued pursuant to KRS 237.110 as soon as practicable.
The Administrative Office of the Courts shall not conduct a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check for the Department of Kentucky State Police.
For purposes of conducting the continual background check on licensees pursuant to KRS 237.110, the Department of Kentucky State Police may provide a list of licensees to the Administrative Office of the Courts. The list of persons holding a license pursuant to KRS 237.110 shall be held confidential by the Administrative Office of the Courts and shall be used only for purposes specified in this section and KRS 237.110. Information regarding licensees or applicants for a license shall be transmitted only to the Department of Kentucky State Police and shall not be distributed to any other person or organization within or without the Administrative Office of the Courts or the Court of Justice. The provisions of this section shall not be construed to prohibit or limit the distribution of information to or about any person which is authorized to be distributed by law, but the fact that the person is an applicant for or holds a license pursuant to KRS 237.110 shall not be distributed.

Effective:June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 112, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 12, effective July 12, 2006.

Except as provided for in subsections (5), (6), and (7) of this section, notwithstanding any other provision of law, a license, permit, or certification held by a member of the United States Armed Forces, including a member of the Kentucky National Guard or Reserve on federal active duty, that expires while that member is deployed overseas shall be extended until ninety (90) days after the end of the deployment.
The hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying authority shall renew a license, permit, or certification extended under subsection (1) of this section until the next date that the license, permit, or certification expires or for the period that the license, permit, or certification is normally issued, at no cost to the member, if that member:
1. Requests renewal of the license, permit, or certification within ninety (90) days after the end of overseas deployment;
2. Provides the hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying authority with a copy of the member's official orders ending the overseas deployment; and
3. Meets all the requirements necessary for the renewal of the license, permit, or certification, except that the member need not meet the requirements, if any, that relate to continuing education or training.
1. The possession by a member specified in subsection (1) of this section of a license, permit, or certification, together with orders for overseas deployment, shall constitute a de facto extension of the license, permit, or certification until its expiration pursuant to subsection (1) of this section or until the license, permit, or certificate is renewed by the hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying authority, whichever occurs later.
2. The possession of a license, permit, or certification, together with orders for overseas deployment, shall constitute, during the period specified in paragraph (a) of this subsection, a defense to any charge for possession of an expired license, permit, or certification by the member specified in subsection (1) of this section.
In order to avoid confusion regarding the status of a license, permit, or certification, a service member specified in subsection (1) of this section may provide the hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying authority a copy of the service member's overseas deployment orders. Upon receipt of the service member's overseas deployment orders, the receiving agency shall indicate the license as extended as provided in this section in the agency's records. Failure of a service member to provide overseas deployment information to the hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying authority shall have no effect on the automatic extension of the license, permit, or certification or its renewal as provided in this section. No hiring, licensing, permitting, or certifying agency shall take any adverse action with regard to the renewal of the license, permit, or certification of a service member who has been the subject of an overseas deployment and who has not notified the agency of the overseas deployment.
This section shall not apply to a motor vehicle or motorcycle operator's license issued under KRS Chapter 186, a motor vehicle registration issued under KRS Chapter 186, or a commercial driver's license issued under KRS Chapter 281A.
A license to carry a concealed deadly weapon issued pursuant to KRS 237.110 shall not be extended beyond its expiration date. However, a service member specified in subsection (1) of this section may:
1. Renew a license issued pursuant to KRS 237.110 by requesting an application form from the Department of Kentucky State Police by mail or facsimile, and returning the completed application, photograph, and license fee to the sheriff prior to the expiration date of the license. The request for the application may be submitted not more than six (6) months prior to the expiration date of the license. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall, if the applicant meets the requirements of KRS 237.110, mail the new license directly to the applicant at the active duty military address specified by the applicant and shall send notification to the sheriff who sent in the application that the license has been sent directly to the applicant. No extra charges shall be made for this service; or
2. Permit the license to expire and, upon return to the county of residence, apply for renewal of the license in the same manner as if the license had been renewed in a timely manner prior to its expiration without any extra fees or penalty charges if the renewal is accomplished within one (1) year after the end of the deployment.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall promulgate administrative regulations to implement the provisions of subsection (6) of this section.

Effective:July 15, 2010

History: Amended 2010 Ky. Acts ch. 12, sec. 1, effective July 15, 2010. -- Amended 2008 Ky. Acts ch. 2, sec. 2, effective July 15, 2008. -- Created 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 49, sec. 1, effective June 20, 2005.

No existing or future city, county, urban-county government, charter county, consolidated local government, unified local government, special district, local or regional public or quasi-public agency, board, commission, department, public corporation, or any person acting under the authority of any of these organizations may occupy any part of the field of regulation of the manufacture, sale, purchase, taxation, transfer, ownership, possession, carrying, storage, or transportation of firearms, ammunition, components of firearms, components of ammunition, firearms accessories, or combination thereof.
Any existing or future ordinance, executive order, administrative regulation, policy, procedure, rule, or any other form of executive or legislative action in violation of this section or the spirit thereof is hereby declared null, void, and unenforceable.
Any person or organization specified in subsection (1) of this section shall repeal, rescind, or amend to conform, any ordinance, administrative regulation, executive order, policy, procedure, rule, or other form of executive or legislative action in violation of this section or the spirit thereof within six (6) months after July 12, 2012.
Pursuant to Section 231 of the Constitution of Kentucky, insofar as any person or organization specified in subsection (1) of this section is considered an agent of the Commonwealth, it is the intent of the General Assembly to exempt them from any immunity provided in Section 231 of the Constitution of Kentucky to the extent provided in this section. A person or an organization whose membership is adversely affected by any ordinance, administrative regulation, executive order, policy, procedure, rule, or any other form of executive or legislative action promulgated or caused to be enforced in violation of this section or the spirit thereof may file suit against any person or organization specified in subsection (1) of this section in any court of this state having jurisdiction over any defendant to the suit for declaratory and injunctive relief. A court shall award the prevailing party in any such suit:
1. Reasonable attorney's fees and costs in accordance with the laws of this state; and
2. Expert witness fees and expenses.
If any person or organization specified in subsection (1) of this section violates this section or the spirit thereof, the court shall declare the improper ordinance, administrative regulation, executive order, policy, procedure, rule, or other form of executive or legislative action specified in subsection (1) of this section null, void, and unenforceable, and issue a permanent injunction against the person or organization specified in subsection (1) of this section prohibiting the enforcement of such ordinance, administrative regulation, executive order, policy, procedure, rule, or any other form of executive or legislative action specified in subsection (1) of this section.
A violation of this section by a public servant shall be a violation of either KRS 522.020 or 522.030, depending on the circumstances of the violation.
The provisions of this section shall not apply where a statute specifically authorizes or directs an agency or person specified in subsection (1) of this section to regulate a subject specified in subsection (1) of this section.

Effective: July 12, 2012

History: Amended 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 117, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2012. -- Created 1984 Ky. Acts ch. 42, sec. 1, effective July 13, 1984.

Any person who is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm may carry a firearm and ammunition for that firearm for purposes of self-defense and defense of others while hunting, fishing, trapping, or engaging in any other activity not constituting a crime under KRS Chapter 218A or Chapters 500 to 534, and may do so on any public lands under the control of the department and on any private land under the control of the department, unless the owner of the private land has posted notice that concealed deadly weapons are not allowed in a building where they may be prohibited pursuant to KRS 237.110 or 237.115.
1. A person may use a firearm, if he or she is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm, or may use any other deadly weapon, at any time and during any season to:
  1. Kill or attempt to kill an animal, whether protected or unprotected, in self-defense or defense of another person; or
  2. Kill or attempt to kill an injured animal for humane purposes.
2. An arrest shall not be made, except upon a warrant issued by a judge of a court of competent jurisdiction, and a citation shall not be issued by a peace officer if an animal is killed under circumstances described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.
3. A citation may be issued by a peace officer who witnesses the killing of an animal in violation of a statute or federal regulation under circumstances different from those described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.
4. An arrest warrant or a summons may be issued by a judge of a court of competent jurisdiction, upon application of the appropriate county attorney, if the court believes that there is sufficient cause to doubt the claim that the animal was killed under circumstances described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.
In cases where an animal is killed and there is a claim that the animal was killed under circumstances described in paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section, the department shall provide forensic evidence or other competent evidence as to how the animal was killed and the circumstances surrounding the event.
The department shall not promulgate administrative regulations restricting any right provided by this section or the spirit thereof.
This section shall not apply to the killing, wounding, or other prohibited act relating to specific wildlife which are protected by the federal Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C. secs. 1531 to 1544; federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, 16 U.S.C. secs. 703 to 712; or federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, 16 U.S.C. secs. 668 to 668d.
The principles contained in KRS Chapter 503 relating to the use of force and deadly force against human beings shall apply to acts where wildlife is involved.

Effective: July 15, 2010

History: Created 2010 Ky. Acts ch.b 158, sec.b 3, effective July 15, 2010.

No person shall take any wildlife, whether protected by this chapter or not, except by trapping, snaring, gig, crossbow, bow and arrow, hook and line, nets, gun, gun and dog, dog, falconry, or as expressly prescribed by regulation.
Shotguns used in the taking of wildlife, protected or unprotected, shall not be larger than 10-gauge and shall be fired from the shoulder. No wildlife, except deer, protected or unprotected, shall be taken with or by means of any automatic loading or hand-operated repeating shotgun capable of holding more than three (3) shells, the magazine of which has not been cut off or plugged with a one (1) piece filler incapable of removal through the loading end, in such manner as to reduce the capacity of the gun to not more than three (3) shells at one (1) time in the magazine and chamber combined.
No person shall take or attempt to take any wildlife, protected or unprotected, from an automobile, or other vehicle, unless prescribed by regulation. Boats may be used except as prohibited by state or federal regulation.
No person shall discharge any firearm, bow and arrow, crossbow or other similar device, upon, over, or across any public roadway.
No person shall take wildlife, except opossum, raccoon, fishes and frogs, with lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night.
Coyotes may be taken at night with or without the use of lights or other means designed to make wildlife visible at night, as established by administrative regulation.

Effective: June 25, 2013

History: Amended 2013 Ky. Acts ch. 29, sec. 1, effective June 25, 2013. -- Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 474, sec. 6, effective July 13, 1990. -- Amended 1986 Ky. Acts ch. 265, sec. 15, effective July 15, 1986. -- Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 178, sec. 13, effective June 17, 1978. -- Amended 1968 Ky. Acts ch. 38, sec. 18. -- Amended 1952 Ky. Acts ch. 200, sec. 48. -- Amended 1946 Ky. Acts ch. 84, sec. 14. -- Amended 1944 Ky. Acts ch. 124, sec. 9. -- Amended 1942 Ky. Acts ch. 68, sec. 37. -- Recodified 1942 Ky. Acts ch. 208, sec. 1, effective October 1, 1942, from Ky. Stat. secs. 1954d-56, 1954d-60.

Residents of the Commonwealth of Kentucky who are citizens of the United States shall have the right to purchase or otherwise acquire rifles, shotguns, handguns, and any other firearms which they are permitted to purchase or otherwise acquire under federal law and the Kentucky Revised Statutes from properly licensed dealers, manufacturers, importers, or collectors, and unlicensed individual persons in Kentucky or in any other state or nation outside of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Residents of states other than the Commonwealth of Kentucky who are citizens of the United States shall have the right to purchase or otherwise acquire rifles, shotguns, handguns, and any other firearms which they are permitted to purchase or otherwise acquire under federal law and the Kentucky Revised Statutes from properly licensed dealers, manufacturers, importers, or collectors, and from unlicensed individual persons in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Citizens of countries other than the United States shall have the right to purchase or otherwise acquire rifles, shotguns, handguns, and any other firearms which they are permitted to purchase or otherwise acquire under federal law and the Kentucky Revised Statutes from properly licensed dealers, manufacturers, importers, or collectors, and from unlicensed individual persons in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
All such sales shall conform to the requirements of federal law, the Kentucky Revised Statutes, applicable local ordinances, and the law of the purchaser's state.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 1, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 1970 Ky. Acts ch. 27, sec. 2.

Each law enforcement agency of state, county, urban-county, charter county, or city government or any other law enforcement agency that participates in a "gun buyback program" or other program in which firearms or ammunition are purchased or surrendered for the purpose of destruction shall assure that:
1. The serial number of each firearm that is purchased or surrendered to the program is checked against local, state, and federal records of stolen firearms and, if it is found that the firearm is a stolen firearm, that the firearm is not destroyed without the written permission of the lawful owner thereof and that if the lawful owner of the firearm does not give written permission for the firearm to be destroyed, that the firearm is returned to its lawful owner;
2. If it is determined that a firearm that is purchased by, or surrendered to the "gun buy-back program" is stolen, that the law enforcement makes an effort to arrest the thief or any person who possessed the firearm knowing it was stolen; and
3. Prior to the destruction of any firearm that is purchased or surrendered, that a written determination is made as to whether the firearm may have been used in a crime, and that if it is determined that the firearm probably was used in a crime, that it is retained for evidence, and if it is determined that the firearm probably was not used in a crime, if the firearm is a rifled firearm, that a fired bullet and fired cartridge case is retained for possible use as evidence and that if the firearm is a smooth bore firearm, that a fired cartridge case is retained for possible use as evidence.
Prior to returning a stolen firearm to a lawful owner, the law enforcement agency shall determine whether or not the lawful owner is eligible to possess a firearm under federal law. If the lawful owner of the firearm is ineligible to possess a firearm under federal law, the law enforcement agency may destroy the firearm after compliance with subsection (1)(c) of this section.

Effective: June 21, 2001

History: Created 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 77, sec. 1, effective June 21, 2001.

"Destructive device" means any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, mine, rocket, missile, or similar device and includes the unassembled components from which such a device can be made.
"Booby trap device" includes any device, or substance designed to surreptitiously or covertly take life, endanger life or destroy or damage property and shall not include firearms.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 33, sec. 1.

A person is guilty of criminal possession of a destructive device or a booby trap device when he possesses, manufactures, or transports such substance or device with:

Intent to use that device to commit an offense against the laws of this state, a political subdivision thereof, or of the United States; or
Knowledge that some other person intends to use that device to commit an offense against the laws of this state, a political subdivision thereof, or of the United States.
Mere possession without substantial evidence of the requisite intent is insufficient to bring action under KRS 237.030 to 237.050.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 33, sec. 2.

KRS 237.030 to 237.050 shall not apply to:

Destructive devices or booby trap devices which are possessed by the government of the United States, this state, or a political subdivision thereof;
Any device which is lawfully possessed under the Gun Control Act of 1968, the Organized Crime Control Act of 1971, or any other law of the United States or this state, unless a crime is committed therewith;
Nonlethal devices placed on the premises of the owner or the lawful occupant thereof for his own self-protection or the protection of the said property;
The setting of traps suitable and legal for the taking of game by persons licensed or permitted to do so by the game laws of the Commonwealth;
Inert devices which cannot readily be restored to operating condition; or
The acquisition, possession, use, or control of firearms.

History: Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 33, sec. 3.

The following definitions apply in KRS 237.060 to 237.090 and KRS 197.170, 218A.992, 244.125, 244.990, and 514.110, unless the context otherwise requires:

"Handgun" means any pistol or revolver originally designed to be fired by the use of a single hand, or any other firearm originally designed to be fired by the use of a single hand.
"Firearm" means any weapon which will expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.
"Licensed gun dealer" means a person who has a federal firearms license and any business license required by a state or local government entity.
"Loaded" with respect to a firearm means:
1. There is ammunition in the chamber of the firearm; or
2. There is ammunition in the cylinder of the firearm; or
3. There is ammunition in the magazine of a firearm, if the magazine is attached to the firearm.
"Juvenile" means a person who has not attained his eighteenth birthday.
"Ammunition" means loaded ammunition designed for use in any firearm.
"Armor-piercing ammunition" means a projectile or projectile core which may be used in a handgun and which is constructed entirely (excluding the presence of traces of other substances) from one (1) or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, bronze, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium. "Armor piercing ammunition" does not include shotgun shot required by federal or state environmental or game regulations for hunting purposes, a frangible projectile designed for target shooting, a projectile which the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States finds is primarily intended to be used for sporting purposes, or any other projectile or projectile core which the Secretary of the Treasury of the United States finds is intended to be used for industrial purposes, including a charge used in an oil and gas well perforating device.
"Flanged ammunition" means ammunition with a soft lead core and having sharp flanges which are designed to expand on impact.

Effective: July 15, 1996

History: Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 191, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1996. -- Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1994.

No person shall knowingly sell or transfer a firearm to any person prohibited from possessing it by KRS 527.040.
Any person who violates the provisions of subsection (1) of this section is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor.
Any firearm transferred in violation of this section shall be subject to forfeiture and shall be disposed of pursuant to KRS 237.090.

Effective: July 15, 1994

History: Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1994.

For purposes of this section:
1. "Certification" means the participation and assent of the chief law-enforcement officer necessary under federal law for the approval of the application to transfer or make a firearm;
2. "Chief law-enforcement officer" means the sheriff of the county of the applicant's residence, notwithstanding the provisions of 27 C.F.R. secs. 479.63 and 479.85; and
3. "Firearm" has the same meaning as provided in the National Firearms Act, 26 U.S.C. § 5845 (a).
1. When a chief law enforcement officer's certification is required by federal law or regulation for the transfer or making of a firearm, the chief law-enforcement officer shall, within fifteen (15) days of receipt of a request for certification, provide this certification if the applicant is not prohibited by law from receiving or possessing the firearm and is not the subject of a proceeding that could result in the applicant being prohibited by law from receiving or possessing the firearm. If the chief law enforcement officer is unable to make a certification as required by this section, he or she shall provide the applicant a written notification of the denial and the reason for this determination.
2. A chief law enforcement officer is not required to make any certification under this subsection he or she knows to be untrue, but he or she may not refuse to provide certification based on a generalized objection to private persons or entities making, possessing, or receiving firearms or any certain type of firearm the possession of which is not prohibited by law.
Chief law-enforcement officers and their employees who act in good faith are immune from liability arising from any act or omission in making a certification as required by this section.
An applicant whose request for certification is denied may appeal the chief law-enforcement officer’s decision to the Circuit Court that is located in the county in which the applicant resides. The court shall review the chief law-enforcement officer’s decision to deny the certification de novo. If the court finds that the applicant is not prohibited by law from receiving or possessing the firearm, is not the subject of a proceeding that could result in such prohibition, and that no substantial evidence supports the chief law enforcement officer’s determination that he or she cannot truthfully make the certification, the court shall order the chief law-enforcement officer to issue the certification and award court costs and reasonable attorney’s fees to the applicant.

History: Created 2014 Ky. Acts ch. 120, sec. 3, effective July 15, 2014

It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly manufacture, sell, deliver, transfer, or import armor-piercing ammunition.
Subsection (1) of this section shall not apply to members of the Armed Forces of the United States or law enforcement officers within the scope of their duties, nor shall it prohibit licensed gun dealers from possessing armor-piercing ammunition for the purpose of receiving and transferring it to members of the Armed Forces of the United States, or law enforcement officers for use within the scope of their duties.
A violation of subsection (1) of this section shall be a Class D felony for the first offense and a Class C felony for each subsequent offense.
Any armor-piercing ammunition transferred, sold, or offered for sale, in violation of this section is contraband and shall be seized and summarily forfeited to the state and shall be disposed of pursuant to KRS 237.090.

Effective: July 15, 1994

History: Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1994.

Any firearm or ammunition forfeited pursuant to KRS 237.060 to 237.090 shall, upon order of a court of competent jurisdiction, be disposed of or retained as provided in KRS 500.090.

Effective: July 15, 1998

History: Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 606, sec. 126, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created

1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 4, effective July 15, 1994.

Upon receiving notice that a person barred from purchasing a firearm under 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(g)(8) has purchased or attempted to purchase a firearm, any agency with the responsibility of entering domestic violence records into the Law Information Network of Kentucky shall notify:
1. The court in the jurisdiction where the domestic violence order was issued under KRS 403.750; and
2. The law enforcement agencies, as designated by the Department of Kentucky State Police, that have jurisdiction in the county where the domestic violence order was issued and in the county of the victim's residence if different from the county where the domestic violence order was issued.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall develop a protocol for providing notice to the required court and law enforcement agencies under subsection (1) of this section. Within the protocol, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall designate which local law enforcement agencies are to receive notice in each county. A minimum of one (1) law enforcement agency shall be designated in each county.
When a designated law enforcement agency for the county where the domestic violence order was issued or where the victim resides receives notice under subsection (1)(b) of this section, that agency shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that the petitioner who obtained the domestic violence order is notified that the respondent has purchased or attempted to purchase a firearm.
Any person carrying out responsibilities under this section shall be immune from civil liability for good faith conduct in carrying out those responsibilities.
This section shall apply only to domestic violence orders issued, or reissued, on or after July 14, 2000, through July 15, 2002.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 264, effective June 26, 2007. -- Amended 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 70, sec. 3, effective July 15, 2002. -- Created 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 401, sec. 11, effective July 14, 2000.

Upon receipt of notice that a person barred from purchasing a firearm under 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(g)(8) has purchased or attempted to purchase a firearm, the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet shall make a reasonable effort to provide notice to the petitioner who obtained the domestic violence order issued under KRS 403.750 or interpersonal protective order issued under KRS Chapter 456 that the respondent to the order has attempted to purchase a firearm. The Justice and Public Safety Cabinet may contract with a private entity in order to provide notification.
The notification shall be limited to a petitioner who has:
1. Received a domestic violence protective order issued or reissued under KRS 403.750 or an interpersonal protective order issued under KRS Chapter 456 on or after July 15, 2002;
2. Received a domestic violence protective order that involves a respondent who is prohibited by 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(g)(8) from possessing a firearm; and(c) Provided the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet or the entity with a request for notification.
Any person carrying out responsibilities under this section shall be immune from civil liability for good faith conduct in carrying out those responsibilities. Nothing in this subsection shall limit liability for negligence.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2015 Ky. Acts HB8, sec. 25, effective January 1, 2016. --Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 265, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 70, sec. 2, effective July 15, 2002.

No person, unit of government, or governmental organization shall have the authority to suspend, revoke, limit the use of, or impair the validity of a concealed deadly weapon license issued pursuant to KRS 237.110, or a foreign license which is recognized as valid pursuant to KRS 237.110, unless the license is revoked for the reasons specified in KRS 237.110 and the revocation is done in the manner specified in KRS 237.110.
No person, unit of government, or governmental organization shall have the authority to suspend, revoke, limit the use of, or impair the validity of a concealed deadly weapon license which is issued pursuant to KRS 237.138 to 237.142 unless the license is revoked for the reasons specified in KRS 237.110 or 237.138 to 237.142.
No action which may be taken pursuant to KRS Chapter 39A shall apply with regard to a license specified in this section or to a person who is the holder of a license specified in this section.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 6, effective July 12, 2006.

No person, unit of government, or governmental organization shall, during a period of disaster or emergency as specified in KRS Chapter 39A or at any other time, have the right to revoke, suspend, limit the use of, or otherwise impair the validity of the right of any person to purchase, transfer, loan, own, possess, carry, or use a firearm, firearm part, ammunition, ammunition component, or any deadly weapon or dangerous instrument.
No person, unit of government, or governmental organization shall, during a period of disaster or emergency as specified in KRS Chapter 39A or at any other time, take, seize, confiscate, or impound a firearm, firearm part, ammunition, ammunition component, or any deadly weapon or dangerous instrument from any person.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to the taking of an item specified in subsection (1) or (2) of this section from a person who is:
1. Forbidden to possess a firearm pursuant to KRS 527.040;
2. Forbidden to possess a firearm pursuant to federal law;
3. Violating KRS 527.020;
4. In possession of a stolen firearm;
5. Using a firearm in the commission of a separate criminal offense; or
6. Using a firearm or other weapon in the commission of an offense under KRS Chapter 150.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 7, effective July 12, 2006.

No person, including but not limited to an employer, who is the owner, lessee, or occupant of real property shall prohibit any person who is legally entitled to possess a firearm from possessing a firearm, part of a firearm, ammunition, or ammunition component in a vehicle on the property.
A person, including but not limited to an employer, who owns, leases, or otherwise occupies real property may prevent a person who is prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition from possessing a firearm or ammunition on the property.
A firearm may be removed from the vehicle or handled in the case of self-defense, defense of another, defense of property, or as authorized by the owner, lessee, or occupant of the property.
An employer that fires, disciplines, demotes, or otherwise punishes an employee who is lawfully exercising a right guaranteed by this section and who is engaging in conduct in compliance with this statute shall be liable in civil damages. An employee may seek and the court shall grant an injunction against an employer who is violating the provisions of this section when it is found that the employee is in compliance with the provisions of this section.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to any real property:
1. Owned, leased, or occupied by the United States government, upon which the possession or carrying of firearms is prohibited or controlled;
2. Of a detention facility as defined in KRS 520.010; or
3. Where a section of the Kentucky Revised Statutes specifically prohibits possession or carrying of firearms on the property.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 8, effective July 12, 2006.

A court that orders a commitment or makes a finding or adjudication under which a person becomes subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) shall order the circuit clerk to forward the person's name and nonclinical identifying information, including the person's Social Security number and date of birth, along with a copy of the order of commitment to the Department of Kentucky State Police, which in turn shall forward the information to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, its successor agency, or agency designated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, for inclusion in the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database. The court shall also notify the person of the prohibitions of 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(4) and (g)(4).
A person who is subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(4) and (g)(4) because of a commitment, finding, or adjudication that occurred in this state may petition the court in which such commitment, finding, or adjudication occurred to remove, pursuant to Section 105(a) of Pub. L. No. 110-180, the disabilities imposed under 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(4) and (g)(4). A copy of the petition for relief shall also be served on the director of the Division of Behavioral Health and the county attorney of the county in which the original commitment, finding, or adjudication occurred. The director of the Division of Behavioral Health and the county attorney may, as each deems appropriate, appear, support, object to, or present evidence relevant to the relief sought by the petitioner. The court shall receive and consider evidence in a closed proceeding, including evidence offered by the petitioner concerning:
1. The circumstances of the original commitment, finding, or adjudication;
2. The petitioner's mental health and criminal history records, if any;
3. The petitioner's reputation;
4. The petitioner's date of birth and Social Security number; and
5. Changes in the petitioner's condition or circumstances relevant to the relief sought.
The court shall grant the petition for relief if it finds by a preponderance of the evidence that the petitioner will not be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety and that granting of the relief would not be contrary to the public interest. A record shall be kept of the proceedings, but it shall remain confidential and be disclosed only to a court in the event of an appeal. The petitioner may appeal a denial of the requested relief, and review on appeal shall be de novo. A person may file a petition for relief under this section no more than once every two (2) years.
When the court issues an order granting a petition for relief under subsection (2) of this section, the circuit clerk shall immediately forward a copy of the order to the Department of Kentucky State Police, which in turn shall immediately forward a copy to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, or its successor agency, for updating of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System database and shall remove all information in any database over which the department exercises control relating to the person whose relief from disability is granted and shall immediately destroy all paper copies of the order of commitment and other documents relating to the matter.
If a petition is granted under this section, the order, finding, or adjudication for which relief is granted shall, pursuant to Section 105(a) of Pub. L. No. 110-180, be deemed not to have occurred for purposes of 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(4) and (g)(4).
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall not use or permit the use of the records or information obtained or retained pursuant to this section for any purpose not specified in this section.
The provisions of this section shall supersede any other statute to the contrary for the purposes set forth in this section but otherwise shall be held and construed as ancillary and supplemental to any other statute.

Effective: June 8, 2011

History: Created 2011 Ky. Acts ch. 60, sec. 1, effective June 8, 2011.

Persons age twenty-one (21) or older, and otherwise able to lawfully possess a firearm, may carry concealed firearms or other concealed deadly weapons without a license in the same locations as persons with valid licenses issued under KRS 237.110.
Nothing in this section shall be construed to allow the carrying or possession of any deadly weapon where it is prohibited by federal law.

History: Enacted 2019 KY Acts ch. 010

The Department of Kentucky State Police is authorized to issue and renew licenses to carry concealed firearms or other deadly weapons, or a combination thereof, to persons qualified as provided in this section.
An original or renewal license issued pursuant to this section shall:
1. Be valid throughout the Commonwealth and, except as provided in this section or other specific section of the Kentucky Revised Statutes or federal law, permit the holder of the license to carry firearms, ammunition, or other deadly weapons, or a combination thereof, at any location in the Commonwealth;
2. Unless revoked or suspended as provided by law, be valid for a period of five (5) years from the date of issuance;
3. Authorize the holder of the license to carry a concealed firearm or other deadly weapon, or a combination thereof, on or about his or her person; and
4. Authorize the holder of the license to carry ammunition for a firearm on or about his or her person.
Prior to the issuance of an original or renewal license to carry a concealed deadly weapon, the Department of Kentucky State Police, upon receipt of a completed application, applicable fees, and any documentation required by this section or administrative regulation promulgated by the Department of Kentucky State Police, shall conduct a background checkto ascertain whether the applicant is eligible under 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(g) and (n), any other applicable federal law, and state law to purchase, receive, or possess a firearm or ammunition, or both. The background check shall include:
1. A state records check covering the items specified in this subsection, together with any other requirements of this section;
2. A federal records check, which shall include a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) check;
3. A federal Immigration Alien Query if the person is an alien who has been lawfully admitted to the United States by the United States government or an agency thereof; and
4. In addition to the Immigration Alien Query, if the applicant has not been lawfully admitted to the United States under permanent resident status, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall, if a doubt exists relating to an alien's eligibility to purchase a firearm, consult with the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Department of Justice, United States Department of State, or other federal agency to confirm whether the alien is eligible to purchase a firearm in the United States, bring a firearm into the United States, or possess a firearm in the United States under federal law.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall issue an original or renewal license if the applicant:
1. Is not prohibited from the purchase, receipt, or possession of firearms, ammunition, or both pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 922(g), 18 U.S.C. 922(n), or applicable federal or state law;
2. 1. Is a citizen of the United States who is a resident of this Commonwealth;
  2. Is a citizen of the United States who is a member of the Armed Forces of the United States who is on active duty, who is at the time of application assigned to a military posting in Kentucky;
  3. Is lawfully admitted to the United States by the United States government or an agency thereof, is permitted by federal law to purchase a firearm, and is a resident of this Commonwealth; or
  4. Is lawfully admitted to the United States by the United States government or an agency thereof, is permitted by federal law to purchase a firearm, is, at the time of the application, assigned to a military posting in Kentucky, and has been assigned to a posting in the Commonwealth;
3. Is twenty-one (21) years of age or older;
4. Has not been committed to a state or federal facility for the abuse of a controlled substance or been convicted of a misdemeanor violation of KRS Chapter 218A or similar laws of any other state relating to controlled substances, within a three (3) year period immediately preceding the date on which the application is submitted;
5. Does not chronically and habitually use alcoholic beverages as evidenced by the applicant having two (2) or more convictions for violating KRS 189A.010 within the three (3) years immediately preceding the date on which the application is submitted, or having been committed as an alcoholic pursuant to KRS Chapter 222 or similar laws of another state within the three (3) year period immediately preceding the date on which the application is submitted;
6. Does not owe a child support arrearage which equals or exceeds the cumulative amount which would be owed after one (1) year of nonpayment, if the Department of Kentucky State Police has been notified of the arrearage by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services;
7. Has complied with any subpoena or warrant relating to child support or paternity proceedings. If the Department of Kentucky State Police has not been notified by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services that the applicant has failed to meet this requirement, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall assume that paternity and child support proceedings are not an issue;
8. Has not been convicted of a violation of KRS 508.030 or 508.080 within the three (3) years immediately preceding the date on which the application is submitted. The commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police may waive this requirement upon good cause shown and a determination that the applicant is not a danger and that a waiver would not violate federal law; and
9. Demonstrates competence with a firearm by successful completion of any National Rifle Association firearms safety or training course that includes a component of live-fire training or a firearms safety course offered or approved by the Department of Criminal Justice Training. The firearms safety course offered or approved by the Department of Criminal Justice Training shall:
  1. Be not more than eight (8) hours in length;
  2. Include instruction on handguns, the safe use of handguns, the care and cleaning of handguns, and handgun marksmanship principles;
  3. Include actual range firing of a handgun in a safe manner, and the firing of not more than twenty (20) rounds at a full-size silhouette target, during which firing, not less than eleven (11) rounds must hit the silhouette portion of the target; and
  4. Include information on and a copy of laws relating to possession and carrying of firearms, as set forth in KRS Chapters 237 and 527, and the laws relating to the use of force, as set forth in KRS Chapter 503.
1. A legible photocopy or electronic copy of a certificate of completion issued by a National Rifle Association certified instructor or the Department of Criminal Justice Training shall constitute evidence of qualification under subsection (4)(i) of this section.
2. Persons qualifying under subsection (6)(d) of this section may submit with their application;
  1. At least one (1) of the following paper or electronic forms or their successor forms showing evidence of handgun training or handgun qualifications:
    1. Department of Defense Form DD 2586;
    2. Department of Defense Form DD 214;
    3. Coast Guard Form CG 3029;
    4. Department of the Army Form DA 88-R;
    5. Department of the Army Form DA 5704-R;
    6. Department of the Navy Form OPNAV 3591-1; or
    7. Department of the Air Force Form AF 522.
  2. 1. Documentary evidence of an honorable discharge; and
    2. A notarized affidavit on a form provided by the Department of Kentucky State Police, signed under penalty of perjury, stating the person has met the training requirements of subsection (6)(c) of this section
1. Peace officers who are currently certified as peace officers by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council pursuant to KRS 15.380 to 15.404 and peace officers who are retired and are members of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System, State Police Retirement System, or County EmployeesRetirement System or other retirement system operated by or for a city, county, or urban-county in Kentucky shall be deemed to have met the training requirement.
2. Current and retired peace officers of the following federal agencies shall be deemed to have met the training requirement:
  1. Any peace officer employed by a federal agency specified in KRS 61.365;
  2. Any peace officer employed by a federal civilian law enforcement agency not specified above who has successfully completed the basic law enforcement training course required by that agency;
  3. Any military peace officer of the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, or Air Force, or a reserve component thereof, or of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard who has successfully completed the military law enforcement training course required by that branch of the military; and
  4. Any member of the United States Coast Guard serving in a peace officer role who has successfully completed the law enforcement training course specified by the United States Coast Guard.
3. Corrections officers who are currently employed by a consolidated local government, an urban-county government, or the Department of Corrections who have successfully completed a basic firearms training course required for their employment, and corrections officers who were formerly employed by a consolidated local government, an urban-county government, or the Department of Corrections who are retired, and who successfully completed a basic firearms training course required for their employment, and are members of a state-administered retirement system or other retirement system operated by or for a city, county, or urban-county government in Kentucky shall be deemed to have met the training requirement.
4. Active or honorably discharged service members in the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard, or a reserve component thereof, or of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard shall be deemed to have met the training requirement if these persons:
  1. Successfully completed handgun training which was conducted by the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard, or a reserve component thereof, or of the Army National Guard or Air National Guard; or
  2. Successfully completed handgun qualification within the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, or Coast Guard, or a reserve component thereof, or of the Army Guard or Air Force National Guard.
1. 1. A paper application for a license, or renewal of a license, to carry a concealed deadly weapon shall be obtained from and submitted to the office of the sheriff in the county in which the person resides.
  2. An applicant, in lieu of a paper application, may submit an electronic application for a license, or renewal of a license, to carry a concealed deadly weapon to the Department of Kentucky State Police.
  3. Persons qualifying under subsection (6)(d) of this section shall be supplied the information in subsection (4)(i)4. of this section upon obtaining an application.
2. 1. The completed paper application and any documentation required by this section plus an application fee or renewal fee, as appropriate, of sixty dollars ($60) shall be presented to the office of the sheriff of the county in which the applicant resides.
  2. The sheriff shall transmit the paper application and accompanying material to the Department of Kentucky State Police within five (5) working days.
  3. Twenty dollars ($20) of the paper application fee shall be retained by the office of the sheriff for official expenses of the office. Twenty dollars ($20) shall be sent to the Department of Kentucky State Police with the application. Ten dollars ($10) shall be transmitted by the sheriff to the Administrative Office of the Courts to fund background checks for youth leaders, and ten dollars ($10) shall be transmitted to the Administrative Office of the Courts to fund background checks for applicants for concealed weapons.
3. 1. A completed electronic application submitted in lieu of a paper application, any documentation required by this section, and an application fee or renewal fee, as appropriate, of seventy dollars ($70) shall be presented to the Department of Kentucky State Police.
  2. If an electronic application is submitted in lieu of a paper application, thirty dollars ($30) of the electronic application fee shall be retained by the Department of Kentucky State Police. Twenty dollars ($20) shall be sent to the office of the sheriff of the applicant's county of residence for official expenses of the office. Ten dollars ($10) shall be transmitted to the Administrative Office of the Courts to fund background checks for youth leaders, and ten dollars ($10) shall be transmitted to the Administrative Office of the Courts to fund background checks for applicants for concealed weapon carry permit.
4. A full-time or part-time peace officer who is currently certified as a peace officer by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council and who is authorized by his or her employer or government authority to carry a concealed deadly weapon at all times and all locations within the Commonwealth pursuant to KRS 527.020, or a retired peace officer who is a member of the Kentucky Employees Retirement System, State Police Retirement System, County Employees Retirement System, or other retirement system operated by or for a city, county, or urban-county government in Kentucky, shall be exempt from paying the paper or electronic application or renewal fees.
5. The application whether paper or electronic, shall be completed, under oath, on a form or in a manner promulgated by the Department of Kentucky State Police by administrative regulation which shall include:
  1. 1. The name, address, place and date of birth, citizenship, gender, Social Security number of the applicant; and
    2. If not a citizen of the United States, alien registration number if applicable, passport number, visa number, mother's maiden name, and other information necessary to determine the immigration status and eligibility to purchase a firearm under federal law of a person who is not a citizen of the United States;
  2. A statement that, to the best of his or her knowledge, the applicant is in compliance with criteria contained within subsections (3) and (4) of this section;
  3. A statement that the applicant, if qualifying under subsection (6)(c) of this section, has provided:
    1. At least one (1) of the forms listed in subsection (5) of this section; or
    2. 1. Documentary evidence of an honorable discharge; and
      2. A notarized affidavit on a form provided by the Department of Kentucky State Police stating the person has met the training requirements of subsection (6)(c) of this section;
  4. A statement that the applicant has been furnished a copy of this section and is knowledgeable about its provisions;
  5. A statement that the applicant has been furnished a copy of, has read, and understands KRS Chapter 503 as it pertains to the use of deadly force for selfdefense in Kentucky; and
  6. A conspicuous warning that the application is executed under oath and that a materially false answer to any question, or the submission of any materially false document by the applicant, subjects the applicant to criminal prosecution under KRS 523.030.
The applicant shall submit to the sheriff of the applicant's county of residence or county of military posting if submitting a paper application, or to the Department of Kentucky State Police if submitting an electronic application:
1. A completed application as described in subsection (7) of this section;
2. A recent color photograph of the applicant, as prescribed by administrative regulation;
3. A paper or electronic certificate or an affidavit or document as described in subsection (5) of this section;
4. A paper or electronic document establishing the training exemption as described in subsection (6) of this section; and
5. For an applicant who is not a citizen of the United States and has been lawfully admitted to the United States by the United States government or an agency thereof, an affidavit as prescribed by administrative regulation concerning his or her immigration status and his or her United States government issued:
  1. Permanent Resident Card I-551 or its equivalent successor identification;
  2. Other United States government issued evidence of lawful admission to the United States which includes the category of admission, if admission has not been granted as a permanent resident; and
  3. Evidence of compliance with the provisions of 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(g)(5), 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(d)(5), or 18 U.S.C. sec. 922(y)(2), and 27 C.F.R. Part 178, including, as appropriate, but not limited to evidence of ninety (90) day residence in the Commonwealth, a valid current Kentucky hunting license if claiming exemption as a hunter, or other evidence of eligibility to purchase a firearm by an alien which is required by federal law or regulation.
  If an applicant presents identification specified in this paragraph, the sheriff shall examine the identification, may record information from the identification presented, and shall return the identification to the applicant.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall, within thirty (30) days after the date of receipt of the items listed in subsection (8) of this section if the applicant submitted a paper application, or within fifteen (15) business days after the date of receipt of the items listed in subsection (8) of this section if the applicant applied electronically, either:
1. Issue the license; or
2. Deny the application based solely on the grounds that the applicant fails to qualify under the criteria listed in subsection (3) or (4) of this section. If the Department of Kentucky State Police denies the application, it shall notify the applicant in writing, stating the grounds for denial and informing the applicant of a right to submit, within thirty (30) days, any additional documentation relating to the grounds of denial. Upon receiving any additional documentation, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall reconsider its decision and inform the applicant within twenty (20) days of the result of the reconsideration. The applicant shall further be informed of the right to seek de novo review of the denial in the District Court of his or her place of residence within ninety (90) days from the date of the letter advising the applicant of the denial.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall maintain an automated listing of license holders and pertinent information, and this information shall be available upon request, at all times to all Kentucky, federal, and other states' law enforcement agencies. A request for the entire list of licensees, or for all licensees in a geographic area, shall be denied. Only requests relating to a named licensee shall be honored or available to law enforcement agencies. Information on applications for licenses, names and addresses, or other identifying information relating to license holders shall be confidential and shall not be made available except to law enforcement agencies. No request for lists of local or statewide permit holders shall be made to any state or local law enforcement agency, peace officer, or other agency of government other than the Department of Kentucky State Police, and no state or local law enforcement agency, peace officer, or agency of government, other than the Department of Kentucky State Police, shall provide any information to any requester not entitled to it by law.
Within thirty (30) days after the changing of a permanent address, or within thirty (30) days after the loss, theft, or destruction of a license, the licensee shall notify the Department of Kentucky State Police of the loss, theft, or destruction. Failure to notify the Department of Kentucky State Police shall constitute a noncriminal violation with a penalty of twenty-five dollars ($25) payable to the clerk of the District Court. No court costs shall be assessed for a violation of this subsection. When a licensee makes application to change his or her residence address or other information on the license, neither the sheriff nor the Department of Kentucky State Police shall require a surrender of the license until a new license is in the office of the applicable sheriff and available for issuance. Upon the issuance of a new license, the old license shall be destroyed by the sheriff.
If a license is lost, stolen, or destroyed, the license shall be automatically invalid, and the person to whom the same was issued may, upon payment of fifteen dollars ($15) for a paper request, or twenty-five dollars ($25) for an electronic request submitted in lieu of a paper request, to the Department of Kentucky State Police, obtain a duplicate, upon furnishing a notarized statement to the Department of Kentucky State Police that the license has been lost, stolen, or destroyed.
1. The commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police, or his or herdesignee in writing, shall revoke the license of any person who becomes permanently ineligible to be issued a license or have a license renewed under the criteria set forth in this section.
2. The commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police, or his or her designee in writing, shall suspend the license of any person who becomes temporarily ineligible to be issued a license or have a license renewed under the criteria set forth in this section. The license shall remain suspended until the person is again eligible for the issuance or renewal of a license.
3. Upon the suspension or revocation of a license, the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police, or his or her designee in writing, shall:
  1. Order any peace officer to seize the license from the person whose license was suspended or revoked; or
  2. Direct the person whose license was suspended or revoked to surrender the license to the sheriff of the person's county of residence within two (2) business days of the receipt of the notice.
4. If the person whose license was suspended or revoked desires a hearing on the matter, the person shall surrender the license as provided in paragraph (c)2. of this subsection and petition the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police to hold a hearing on the issue of suspension or revocation of the license.
5. Upon receipt of the petition, the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police shall cause a hearing to be held in accordance with KRS Chapter 13B on the suspension or revocation of the license. If the license has not been surrendered, no hearing shall be scheduled or held.
6. If the hearing officer determines that the licensee's license was wrongly suspended or revoked, the hearing officer shall order the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police to return the license and abrogate the suspension or revocation of the license.
7. Any party may appeal a decision pursuant to this subsection to the District Court in the licensee's county of residence in the same manner as for the denial of a license.
8. If the license is not surrendered as ordered, the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police shall order a peace officer to seize the license and deliver it to the commissioner.
9. Failure to surrender a suspended or revoked license as ordered is a Class A misdemeanor.
10. The provisions of this subsection relating to surrender of a license shall not apply if a court of competent jurisdiction has enjoined its surrender.
11. When a domestic violence order or emergency protective order is issued pursuant to the provisions of KRS Chapter 403 against a person holding a license issued under this section, the holder of the permit shall surrender the license to the court or to the officer serving the order. The officer to whom the license is surrendered shall forthwith transmit the license to the court issuing the order. The license shall be suspended until the order is terminated, or until the judge who issued the order terminates the suspension prior to the termination of the underlying domestic violence order or emergency protectiveorder, in writing and by return of the license, upon proper motion by the license holder. Subject to the same conditions as above, a peace officer against whom an emergency protective order or domestic violence order has been issued shall not be permitted to carry a concealed deadly weapon when not on duty, the provisions of KRS 527.020 to the contrary notwithstanding.
1. Not less than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the expiration date of the license, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall mail to each licensee a written notice of the expiration and a renewal form prescribed by the Department of Kentucky State Police. The outside of the envelope containing the license renewal notice shall bear only the name and address of the applicant. No other information relating to the applicant shall appear on the outside of the envelope sent to the applicant. The licensee may renew his or her license on or before the expiration date by filing with the sheriff of his or her county of residence the paper renewal form, or by filing with the Department of Kentucky State Police an electronic renewal form in lieu of a paper renewal form stating that the licensee remains qualified pursuant to the criteria specified in subsections (3) and (4) of this section, and the required renewal fee set forth in subsection (7) of this section. The sheriff shall issue to the applicant a receipt for the paper application for renewal of the license and shall date the receipt. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall issue to the applicant a receipt for an electronic application for renewal of the license submitted in lieu of a paper application for renewal and shall date the receipt.
2. A license which has expired shall be void and shall not be valid for any purpose other than surrender to the sheriff in exchange for a renewal license.
3. The license shall be renewed to a qualified applicant upon receipt of the completed renewal application, records check as specified in subsection (3) of this section, determination that the renewal applicant is not ineligible for a license as specified in subsection (4), and appropriate payment of fees. Upon the issuance of a new license, the old license shall be destroyed by the sheriff. A licensee who fails to file a renewal application on or before its expiration date may renew his or her license by paying, in addition to the license fees, a late fee of fifteen dollars ($15). No license shall be renewed six (6) months or more after its expiration date, and the license shall be deemed to be permanently expired six (6) months after its expiration date. A person whose license has permanently expired may reapply for licensure pursuant to subsections (7), (8), and (9) of this section.
The licensee shall carry the license at all times the licensee is carrying a concealed firearm or other deadly weapon and shall display the license upon request of a law enforcement officer. Violation of the provisions of this subsection shall constitute a noncriminal violation with a penalty of twenty-five dollars ($25), payable to the clerk of the District Court, but no court costs shall be assessed.
Except as provided in KRS 527.020, no license issued pursuant to this section shall authorize any person to carry a concealed firearm into:
1. Any police station or sheriff's office;
2. Any detention facility, prison, or jail;
3. Any courthouse, solely occupied by the Court of Justice courtroom, or court proceeding;
4. Any meeting of the governing body of a county, municipality, or special district; or any meeting of the General Assembly or a committee of the General Assembly, except that nothing in this section shall preclude a member of the body, holding a concealed deadly weapon license, from carrying a concealed deadly weapon at a meeting of the body of which he or she is a member;
5. Any portion of an establishment licensed to dispense beer or alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, which portion of the establishment is primarily devoted to that purpose;
6. Any elementary or secondary school facility without the consent of school authorities as provided in KRS 527.070, any child-caring facility as defined in KRS 199.011, any day-care center as defined in KRS 199.894, or any certified family child-care home as defined in KRS 199.8982, except however, any owner of a certified child-care home may carry a concealed firearm into the owner's residence used as a certified child-care home;
7. An area of an airport to which access is controlled by the inspection of persons and property; or
8. Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law.
The owner, business or commercial lessee, or manager of a private business enterprise, day-care center as defined in KRS 199.894 or certified or licensed family child-care home as defined in KRS 199.8982, or a health-care facility licensed under KRS Chapter 216B, except facilities renting or leasing housing, may prohibit persons holding concealed deadly weapon licenses from carrying concealed deadly weapons on the premises and may prohibit employees, not authorized by the employer, holding concealed deadly weapons licenses from carrying concealed deadly weapons on the property of the employer. If the building or the premises are open to the public, the employer or business enterprise shall post signs on or about the premises if carrying concealed weapons is prohibited. Possession of weapons, or ammunition, or both in a vehicle on the premises shall not be a criminal offense so long as the weapons, or ammunition, or both are not removed from the vehicle or brandished while the vehicle is on the premises. A private but not a public employer may prohibit employees or other persons holding a concealed deadly weapons license from carrying concealed deadly weapons, or ammunition, or both in vehicles owned by the employer, but may not prohibit employees or other persons holding a concealed deadly weapons license from carrying concealed deadly weapons, or ammunition, or both in vehicles owned by the employee, except that the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet may prohibit an employee from carrying any weapons, or ammunition, or both other than the weapons, or ammunition, or both issued or authorized to be used by the employee of the cabinet, in a vehicle while transporting persons under the employee's supervision or jurisdiction. Carrying of a concealed weapon, or ammunition, or both in a location specified in this subsection by a license holder shall not be a criminal act but may subject the person to denial from the premises or removal from the premises, and, if an employee of an employer, disciplinary measures by the employer.
All moneys collected by the Department of Kentucky State Police pursuant to this section shall be used to administer the provisions of this section and KRS 237.138 to 237.142. By March 1 of each year, the Department of Kentucky State Police and the Administrative Office of the Courts shall submit reports to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, indicating the amounts of money collected and the expenditures related to this section, KRS 237.138 to 237.142, and KRS 237.115, 244.125, 527.020, and 527.070, and the administration of the provisions of this section, KRS 237.138 to 237.142, and KRS 237.115, 244.125, 527.020, and 527.070.
The General Assembly finds as a matter of public policy that it is necessary to provide statewide uniform standards for issuing licenses to carry concealed firearms and to occupy the field of regulation of the bearing of concealed firearms to ensure that no person who qualifies under the provisions of this section is denied his rights. The General Assembly does not delegate to the Department of Kentucky State Police the authority to regulate or restrict the issuing of licenses provided for in this section beyond those provisions contained in this section. This section shall be liberally construed to carry out the constitutional right to bear arms for self-defense.
1. A person who is not a resident of Kentucky and who has a valid license issued by another state of the United States to carry a concealed deadly weapon in that state may, subject to provisions of Kentucky law, carry a concealed deadly weapon in Kentucky, and his or her license shall be considered as valid in Kentucky.
2. If a person with a valid license to carry a concealed deadly weapon issued from another state that has entered into a reciprocity agreement with the Department of Kentucky State Police becomes a resident of Kentucky, the license issued by the other state shall be considered as valid for the first one hundred and twenty (120) days of the person's residence in Kentucky, if within sixty (60) days of moving to Kentucky, the person completes a form promulgated by the Department of Kentucky State Police which shall include:
  1. A signed and notarized statement averring that to the best of his or her knowledge the person's license to carry a concealed deadly weapon is valid and in compliance with applicable out-of-state law, and has not been revoked or suspended for any reason except for valid forfeiture due to departure from the issuing state;
  2. The person's name, date of birth, citizenship, gender, Social Security number if applicable, proof that he or she is a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident of the United States, or otherwise lawfully present in the United States, former out-of-state address, current address within the state of Kentucky, date on which Kentucky residence began, state which issued the concealed carry license, the issuing state's concealed carry license number, and the state of issuance of license; and
  3. A photocopy of the person's out-of-state license to carry a concealed deadly weapon.
3. Within sixty (60) days of moving to Kentucky, the person shall deliver the form and accompanying documents by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, to the address indicated on the form provided by the Department of Kentucky State Police pursuant to this subsection.
4. The out-of-state concealed carry license shall become invalid in Kentucky upon the earlier of:
  1. The out-of-state person having resided in Kentucky for more than one hundred twenty (120) days; or
  2. The person being issued a Kentucky concealed deadly weapon license pursuant to this section.
5. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall, not later than thirty (30) days after July 15, 1998, and not less than once every twelve (12) months thereafter, make written inquiry of the concealed deadly weapon carrying licensing authorities in each other state as to whether a Kentucky resident may carry a concealed deadly weapon in their state based upon having a valid Kentucky concealed deadly weapon license, or whether a Kentucky resident may apply for a concealed deadly weapon carrying license in that state based upon having a valid Kentucky concealed deadly weapon license. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall attempt to secure from each other state permission for Kentucky residents who hold a valid Kentucky concealed deadly weapon license to carry concealed deadly weapons in that state, either on the basis of the Kentucky license or on the basis that the Kentucky license is sufficient to permit the issuance of a similar license by the other state. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall enter into a written reciprocity agreement with the appropriate agency in each state that agrees to permit Kentucky residents to carry concealed deadly weapons in the other state on the basis of a Kentuckyissued concealed deadly weapon license or that will issue a license to carry concealed deadly weapons in the other state based upon a Kentucky concealed deadly weapon license. If a reciprocity agreement is reached, the requirement to recontact the other state each twelve (12) months shall be eliminated as long as the reciprocity agreement is in force. The information shall be a public record and shall be available to individual requesters free of charge for the first copy and at the normal rate for open records requests for additional copies.
By March 1 of each year, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall submit a statistical report to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, indicating the number of licenses issued, revoked, suspended, and denied since the previous report and in total and also the number of licenses currently valid. The report shall also include the number of arrests, convictions, and types of crimes committed since the previous report by individuals licensed to carry concealed weapons.
The following provisions shall apply to concealed deadly weapon training classes conducted by the Department of Criminal Justice Training or any other agency pursuant to this section:
1. No concealed deadly weapon instructor trainer shall have his or her certification as a concealed deadly weapon instructor trainer reduced to that of instructor or revoked except after a hearing conducted pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B in which the instructor is found to have committed an act in violation of the applicable statutes or administrative regulations;
2. No concealed deadly weapon instructor shall have his or her certification as a concealed deadly weapon instructor license suspended or revoked except after a hearing conducted pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B in which the instructor is found to have committed an act in violation of the applicable statutes or administrative regulations;
3. The department shall not require prior notification that an applicant class or instructor class will be conducted by a certified instructor or instructor trainer;
4. Each concealed deadly weapon instructor or instructor trainer who teaches a concealed deadly weapon applicant or concealed deadly weapon instructor class shall supply the Department of Criminal Justice Training with a class roster indicating which students enrolled and successfully completed the class, and which contains the name and address of each student, within five (5) working days of the completion of the class. The information may be sent by mail, facsimile, e-mail, or other method which will result in the receipt of or production of a hard copy of the information. The postmark, facsimile date, or e-mail date shall be considered as the date on which the notice was sent. Concealed deadly weapon class applicant, instructor, and instructor trainer information and records shall be confidential. The department may release to any person or organization the name, address, and telephone number of a concealed deadly weapon instructor or instructor trainer if that instructor or instructor trainer authorizes the release of the information in writing. The department shall include on any application for an instructor or instructor trainer certification a statement that the applicant either does or does not desire the applicant's name, address, and telephone number to be made public;
5. An instructor trainer who assists in the conduct of a concealed deadly weapon instructor class or concealed deadly weapon applicant class for more than two (2) hours shall be considered as to have taught a class for the purpose of maintaining his or her certification. All class record forms shall include spaces for assistant instructors to sign and certify that they have assisted in the conduct of a concealed deadly weapon instructor or concealed deadly weapon class;
6. An instructor who assists in the conduct of a concealed deadly weapon applicant class for more than two (2) hours shall be considered as to have taught a class for the purpose of maintaining his or her license. All class record forms shall include spaces for assistant instructors to sign and certify that they have assisted in the conduct of a concealed deadly weapon class;
7. If the Department of Criminal Justice Training believes that a firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor has not in fact complied with the requirements for teaching a certified firearms instructor or applicant class by not teaching the class as specified in KRS 237.126, or who has taught an insufficient class as specified in KRS 237.128, the department shall send to each person who has been listed as successfully completing the concealed deadly weapon applicant class or concealed deadly weapon instructor class averification form on which the time, date, date of range firing if different from the date on which the class was conducted, location, and instructor of the class is listed by the department and which requires the person to answer "yes" or "no" to specific questions regarding the conduct of the training class. The form shall be completed under oath and shall be returned to the Department of Criminal Justice Training not later than forty-five (45) days after its receipt. A person who fails to complete the form, to sign the form, or to return the form to the Department of Criminal Justice Training within the time frame specified in this section or who, as a result of information on the returned form, is determined by the Department of Criminal Justice Training, following a hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B, to not have received the training required by law shall have his or her concealed deadly weapon license revoked by the Department of Kentucky State Police, following a hearing conducted by the Department of Criminal Justice Training pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B, at which hearing the person is found to have violated the provisions of this section or who has been found not to have received the training required by law;
8. The department shall annually, not later than December 31 of each year, report to the Legislative Research Commission:
  1. The number of firearms instructor trainers and certified firearms instructors whose certifications were suspended, revoked, denied, or who were otherwise disciplined;
  2. The reasons for the imposition of suspensions, revocations, denials, or other discipline; and
  3. Suggestions for improvement of the concealed deadly weapon applicant training program and instructor process;
9. If a concealed deadly weapon license holder is convicted of, pleads guilty to, or enters an Alford plea to a felony offense, then his or her concealed deadly weapon license shall be forthwith revoked by the Department of Kentucky State Police as a matter of law;
10. If a concealed deadly weapon instructor or instructor trainer is convicted of, pleads guilty to, or enters an Alford plea to a felony offense, then his or her concealed deadly weapon instructor certification or concealed deadly weapon instructor trainer certification shall be revoked by the Department of Criminal Justice Training as a matter of law; and
11. The following shall be in effect:
  1. Action to eliminate the firearms instructor trainer program is prohibited. The program shall remain in effect, and no firearms instructor trainer shall have his or her certification reduced to that of certified firearms instructor;
  2. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall revoke the concealed deadly weapon license of any person who received no firearms training as required by KRS 237.126 and administrative regulations, or who received insufficient training as required by KRS 237.128 and administrative regulations, if the person voluntarily admits nonreceipt of training or admits receipt of insufficient training, or if either nonreceipt of training or receipt of insufficient training is proven following a hearing conducted by the Department of Criminal Justice Training pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.

Effective January 1, 2016

History: Amended 2015 Ky, Acts ch. 60, sec. 1, effective January 1, 2016; Amended 2014 Ky. Acts ch. 120, sec. 5, effective July 15, 2014; 2013 Ky. Acts ch. 32, sec. 5, effective June 25, 2013; and ch. 73, sec. 1, effective June 25, 2013. -- Amended 2008 Ky. Acts ch. 96, sec. 2, effective July 15, 2008. -- Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 266, effective June 26, 2007. -- Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 2, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 99, sec. 565, effective June 20, 2005; and ch. 182, sec. 15, effective March 31, 2005. -- Amended 2004 Ky. Acts ch. 86, sec. 1, effective July 13, 2004. -- Amended 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 2, effective July 15, 2002. -- Amended 2000 Ky. Acts ch. 455, sec. 1, effective July 14, 2000. -- Amended 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 417, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1998; ch. 494, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1998; and ch. 606, sec. 136, effective July 15, 1998. -- Created 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 1, effective October 1, 1996.

Legislative Research Commission Note (6/25/2013). This statute was amended by 2013 Ky. Acts chs. 32 and 73, which do not appear to be in conflict and have been codified together.

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/15/2008). 2008 House Bill 639, sec. 2, which became 2008 Ky. Acts ch. 96, sec. 2, amended KRS 237.110. The Senate Committee Substitute for HB 639 changed all references except one, which was inadvertently omitted, in this section from "handgun" to "firearm." To achieve consistency, the Reviser of Statutes has changed the reference in KRS 237.110(4)(b)4. from "handgun" to "firearm" under the authority of KRS 7.136.

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/12/2006). 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 2, subsec. (13), contains a reference in paragraph (d) to surrender of a license "as provided in paragraph (c)1. of this subsection. "Because only paragraph (c)2. of subsection (13) contains the provision setting forth surrender of a license, the reference has been changed in codification to "paragraph (c)2. of this subsection" under KRS 7.136(1)(h).

Legislative Research Commission Note (3/21/2005). 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 6 provides, "With respect to the training requirements of [KRS 237.110], [KRS 237.110] shall be deemed to be retroactive, and training completed prior to [October 1, 1996] may be used and shall be deemed to satisfy the training requirements of [KRS 237.110]."

2012-2014 Budget Reference. See State/Executive Branch Budget, 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 144, Pt. I, H, 4, (3) at 1129.

Except as provided in KRS 527.020, nothing contained in KRS 237.110 or Section 1 of this Act shall be construed to limit, restrict, or prohibit in any manner the right of a college, university, or any postsecondary education facility, including technical schools and community colleges, to control the possession of deadly weapons on any property owned or controlled by them or the right of a unit of state, city, county, urbancounty, or charter county government to prohibit the carrying of concealed deadly weapons in that portion of a building actually owned, leased, or occupied by that unit of government.
Except as provided in KRS 527.020, the legislative body of a state, city, county, or urban-county government may, by statute, administrative regulation, or ordinance, prohibit or limit the carrying of concealed deadly weapons by licensees in thatportion of a building owned, leased, or controlled by that unit of government. That portion of a building in which the carrying of concealed deadly weapons is prohibited or limited shall be clearly identified by signs posted at the entrance to the restricted area. The statute or ordinance shall exempt any building used for public housing by private persons, highway rest areas, firing ranges, and private dwellings owned, leased, or controlled by that unit of government from any restriction on the carrying or possession of deadly weapons. The statute, administrative regulation, or ordinance shall not specify any criminal penalty for its violation but may specify that persons violating the statute or ordinance may be denied entrance to the building, ordered to leave the building, and if employees of the unit of government, be subject to employee disciplinary measures for violation of the provisions of the statute or ordinance. The provisions of this section shall not be deemed to be a violation of KRS 65.870 if the requirements of this section are followed. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any other unit of government.
Unless otherwise specifically provided by the Kentucky Revised Statutes or applicable federal law, no criminal penalty shall attach to carrying a concealed firearm or other deadly weapon at any location at which an unconcealed firearm or other deadly weapon may be constitutionally carried.

Effective: March 31, 2005

History: Amended 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 16, effective March 31, 2005. -- Created 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 5, effective October 1, 1996. Amended 2019 KY Acts ch. 010 sec. 3

The Department of Criminal Justice Training shall operate and maintain a program for firearms instructor trainers for the concealed deadly weapon training program. Only the General Assembly may eliminate the firearms instructor trainer program.
A firearms instructor trainer shall meet the requirements to be a firearms instructor and shall:
1. Possess a high school diploma or GED certificate;
2. Successfully complete a firearms instructor trainer course of not more than sixteen (16) hours provided by the department; and
3. Possess at least one (1) of the following valid firearms instructor certifications:
  1. National Rifle Association Personal Protection Instructor;
  2. National Rifle Association Pistol Marksmanship Instructor;
  3. Certification from a Kentucky or other firearms instructor course offered by a state or federal governmental agency; or
  4. Certification from another firearms instructor training course that has been determined by the Commissioner of the Department of Criminal Justice Training to be equivalent to one (1) of the above listed courses.
Certification as a firearms instructor trainer shall be valid for a period of three (3) years during which an instructor trainer shall:
1. Conduct or assist in at least one (1) firearms instructor course; or
2. Conduct or assist in at least one (1) applicant training course; and
3. Attend an instructor trainer/instructor in-service training course of not more than four (4) hours conducted by the department; and
4. Not have become ineligible to be a firearms instructor trainer.
The department shall conduct in-service training for firearms instructor trainers and certified firearms instructors. In-service training courses shall be held not less than twice each year in each congressional district and shall be offered at various times during the year ensuring that the maximum number of persons can attend. Preference shall be given to conducting in-service training classes on a Friday or a Saturday. Notice of the time, date, and location for in-service training for each calendar year shall be sent to each firearms instructor trainer and certified firearms instructor by mail or by e-mail not less than thirty (30) days prior to the beginning of the first class for each calendar year. The cost of the in-service training shall be not more than fifty dollars ($50).
At the end of the certification period, the department shall issue a new firearms instructor trainer certification to a person who has completed the provisions of this section, unless that firearms instructor trainer notifies the department in writing that he or she desires not to be recertified or is otherwise ineligible to be recertified. There shall be no charge for recertification. A firearms instructor trainer who has permitted his or her certification to expire may take the in-service course and be recertified for a period of up to one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of expiration of the certification without having to repeat the requirements of subsection (2) of this section.
The fee for a firearms instructor trainer course shall be not more than one hundred dollars ($100). No portion of the fee shall be refunded to any student who fails or who does not complete the required course of training.
Any state agency or public university which owns a firing range shall make that range available to the department for the conduct of in-service training without charge if the department determines that for any particular year's in-service training that range firing is required.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 3, effective July 12, 2006. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 3, effective July 15, 2002.

The Department of Criminal Justice Training shall operate and maintain a program for certification of firearms instructors for the concealed deadly weapon training program. Only the General Assembly may eliminate the certified firearms instructor program.
Training courses for certification of firearms instructors shall be conducted by firearms instructor trainers and the department.
An applicant to be a firearms instructor shall hold a concealed deadly weapon license issued pursuant to KRS 237.110, and successfully complete a firearms instructor training course of not more than sixteen (16) hours provided by a certified firearms instructor trainer.
Certification as a firearms instructor shall be valid for a period of three (3) years during which an instructor shall:
1. Conduct or assist in at least one (1) applicant training course;
2. Attend an instructor trainer/instructor in-service training course of not more than four (4) hours conducted by the department; and
3. Not have become ineligible to be a firearms instructor.
The department shall conduct in-service training for firearms instructor trainers and certified firearms instructors as specified in KRS 237.120.
At the end of the certification period, the department shall issue a new firearms instructor certification to any person who has completed the provisions of this section, unless the firearms instructor notifies the department in writing that he or she desires not to be recertified or is otherwise ineligible to be recertified. There shall be no charge for recertification. A firearms instructor who has permitted his or her certification to expire may take the in-service course and be recertified for a period of one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of expiration of the certification without having to repeat the requirements of subsection (3) of this section.
An instructor trainer shall charge a fee not to exceed one hundred fifty dollars ($150) for a training course for a certified firearms instructor. The instructor shall remit fifty dollars ($50) to the department to defray the cost of materials which the department shall provide to the instructor.
No firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor shall charge a fee in excess of seventy-five dollars ($75) for the conduct of an applicant training course. An instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor may charge a student the actual cost of range use, targets and associated range materials, and classroom rental not to exceed ten dollars ($10) for all of the items specified in this subsection. The instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor shall remit twenty-five dollars ($25) to the department to cover the provision of training materials distributed and providing evidence of successful completion of the course.
No portion of a fee collected pursuant to this section shall be refunded to a student who fails or does not complete the required course of instruction.

Effective: July 15, 2008

History: Amended 2008 Ky. Acts ch. 96, sec. 3, effective July 15, 2008. -- Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 4, effective July 12, 2006. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 4, effective July 15, 2002.

The Department of Criminal Justice Training shall operate a program for the training of applicants for a concealed deadly weapon license. Only the General Assembly may eliminate the training program for applicants for a concealed deadly weapon license.
Training pursuant to this section shall be conducted by a firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and administrative regulations promulgated thereunder.

Effective: July 15, 2002

History: Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 5, effective July 15, 2002.

A firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor is guilty of not providing firearms training if he or she represents to the department that he or she has conducted training for a student firearms instructor or for an applicant in an applicant training course and has not, in fact, provided any such training.
Not providing firearms training is a Class D felony.

Effective: July 15, 2002

History: Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 6, effective July 15, 2002.

A firearms instructor trainer or firearms instructor is guilty of providing incomplete firearms training if he or she represents to the department that he or she has conducted training for a student firearms instructor or for an applicant in an applicant training course and has not, in fact, provided lecture instruction, showed a required visual aid, conducted hands-on firearm safety and cleaning training, provided range instruction and range firing, or has permitted a student to qualify on a target on which the student has not achieved the marksmanship required by administrative regulation.
Providing incomplete firearms training is a Class D felony.

Effective: July 15, 2002

History: Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 7, effective July 15, 2002.

A person is guilty of failure to report nonreceipt of firearms training when he or she receives certification that he or she has successfully completed a firearms instructor trainer, certified firearms instructor, or applicant training course and has not, in fact, received any such training and has not reported the matter in writing to the sheriff, Commonwealth's attorney, or county attorney serving the county in which the training was conducted or has not made a written report to the Department of Kentucky State Police and provided a copy of the certification documents to the agency reported to along with the report. The report shall be made not more than thirty (30) working days after receiving documentation of successful completion of training, unless a request for additional time has been made and has been granted by an officer or agency to which the report shall be made.
Failure to report nonreceipt of firearms training is a Class A misdemeanor.
A person who makes a report pursuant to this section within the time frame specified in subsection (1) of this section shall not be prosecuted for a violation of this section and shall be eligible to reenroll in the level of class for which they were originally enrolled.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 267, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 8, effective July 15, 2002.

A person is guilty of failure to report insufficient firearms training when he or she receives certification that he or she has successfully completed a firearms instructor trainer, certified firearms instructor, or applicant training course and has not, in fact received lecture instruction, the showing of a required visual aid, hands-on firearm safety and cleaning training, range instruction and range firing, or has not successfully completed the marksmanship requirement during range firing and has not reported the matter in writing to the sheriff, Commonwealth's attorney, or county attorney serving the county in which the training was conducted or has not made a written report to the Department of Kentucky State Police and provided a copy of the certification documents to the agency reported to along with the report. The report shall be made not more than thirty (30) working days after receiving documentation of successful completion of training, unless additional time is requested and has been granted by an officer or agency to which a report shall be made.
Failure to report insufficient firearms training is a Class A misdemeanor.
A person who makes a report pursuant to this section within the time frame specified in subsection (1) of this section shall not be prosecuted for a violation of this section and shall be eligible to reenroll in the level of class for which the person was originally enrolled.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 268, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 9, effective July 15, 2002.

When a report is made to the Department of Kentucky State Police pursuant to KRS 237.130 or 237.132, the Department of Kentucky State Police shall notify the Commonwealth's attorney and the county attorney for the county in which the training was conducted of the report and shall cooperate with them in the investigation and prosecution of the case.
When a report is made to a Commonwealth's or county attorney pursuant to KRS 237.130 or 237.132, the Commonwealth's or county attorney shall notify the Department of Kentucky State Police of the report and shall cooperate with them in the investigation and prosecution of the case.
When a report is made to the Department of Criminal Justice Training alleging a violation of KRS 237.130 or 237.132, the department shall notify the Commonwealth's attorney and county attorney of the county in which the training took place and shall make a notification of the report to the Department of Kentucky State Police.
The Department of Kentucky State Police shall make an annual report to the Legislative Research Commission, not later than December 31 of each year, detailing each notice received pursuant to this section detailing:
1. The name of the firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor if that instructor trainer or instructor has been arrested or indicted as a result of the notification, otherwise the name shall be omitted;
2. The precise allegation;
3. Whether the allegation resulted in arrest or indictment;
4. Whether the allegation resulted in a trial, and the results of that trial; and(e) If the defendant was found guilty, the punishment imposed.
In or appended to the report specified in subsection (4) of this section the Department of Kentucky State Police shall report the number of arrests, indictments, trials, convictions, cases which were dismissed, and cases in which the defendant was found not guilty for failure to report nonreceipt of training and failure to report insufficient training.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 269, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 10, effective July 15, 2002.

The Department of Criminal Justice Training may suspend or revoke the certification of a firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor who is found, after a hearing held in conformity with the provisions of KRS Chapter 13B, to have violated a statute or administrative regulation relating to the concealed deadly weapon training program. The suspension of a certification may be for a period not to exceed five (5) years, and the department may require the person whose certification is suspended to successfully complete the level of course instruction for the certification which was suspended prior to reinstating the certification.
The department shall deny recertification to a person whose certification has been revoked pursuant to this section.
The department shall deny recertification to a person whose certification has been suspended for the remaining period of suspension.
The department may temporarily suspend the certification of a firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor prior to holding a hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B if the department believes that the safety of the public requires such an action. In the event that a certification is temporarily suspended prior to holding a hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B, the department shall hold a Chapter 13B hearing not later than thirty (30) days from the date of the temporary suspension unless the defendant requests an extension for a time certain. If the defendant requests an extension for a time certain, then the certification shall remain suspended until the conclusion of the hearing.
A firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor who is the subject of an investigation shall be notified as required by KRS Chapter 13B and shall have, at all stages in the proceeding, the right to be represented by counsel.

Effective: July 15, 2002

History: Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 11, effective July 15, 2002.

Off-duty peace officers authorized to do so by the government employing the officer and retired peace officers certified under KRS 237.138 to 237.142 may carry concealed firearms on or about their persons at all times and at any location within the Commonwealth where an on-duty peace officer is permitted to carry firearms
1. (a) Any person who prevents or attempts to prevent an individual authorized under subsection (1) of this section from carrying a concealed firearm shall be guilty of a violation subject to a fine of:
  1. 1. Five hundred dollars ($500) for a first offense;
  2. 2. One thousand dollars ($1,000) for a second offense; and
  3. 3. Two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500) for a third or any subsequent offense.
2. (b) A citation for the violation may be issued to an individual or an establishment where the violation occurs.

(History: Amended 2017 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 1, effective June 29, 2017. -- Created 2016 Ky. Acts ch. 106, sec. 1, effective April 13, 2016.)

KRS 237.138 to 237.142 shall apply to any elected or appointed peace officer who is honorably retired and who:

Meets the provisions of the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, 18 U.S.C. sec. 926C;
Meets the provisions of KRS 237.138 to 237.142; and
Desires to carry a concealed deadly weapon in conformity with the provisions of the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, 18 U.S.C. sec. 926C.

Effective: July 12, 2012

History: Amended 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 18, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2012. -- Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 240, sec. 5, effective July 12, 2006. -- Created 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 11, effective March 31, 2005.

1. Certification for a retired peace officer to carry a concealed deadly weapon pursuant to KRS 237.138 to 237.142 shall be administered by the Department of Kentucky State Police.
2. Costs of certification shall be paid for by moneys generated by the concealed deadly weapon license program under KRS 15.383 and collected by the Department of Kentucky State Police pursuant to that section.
3. The Department of Kentucky State Police shall promulgate administrative regulations in accordance with KRS Chapter 13A necessary to implement the provisions of KRS 237.138 to 237.142. The regulations shall allow the validity of any license or certifying documentation issued to the retired peace officer under this section to be extended in yearly increments not more than four (4) times. To facilitate this objective, the regulations may authorize the material required by subsection (2) of this section to be submitted to the person supervising the firearms qualifications under subsection (4)(b) of this section, with that person then submitting the material to the Department of Kentucky State Police and signing the license or certification in a manner that satisfies the requirements of federal law as to the retiree's passage of the required yearly firearms testing.
Each retired peace officer who desires certification to carry a concealed deadly weapon shall annually submit:
1. Evidence of retired status to the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police together with all information required by federal law, this section, and administrative regulations promulgated pursuant to this section;
2. Evidence of successful completion of firearms qualification required under this section; and
3. A notarized statement that he or she is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a firearm.
Each law enforcement agency that employed the retired peace officer, or at which the retired peace officer served in an elected capacity, shall provide to the retired officer and the Department of Kentucky State Police the information required by federal law, this section, and the administrative regulations promulgated pursuant to this section in a prompt and efficient manner, without charge either to the Department of Kentucky State Police or the retiree.
1. Each retired peace officer shall annually fire twenty (20) rounds at an adult size silhouette target at a range of twenty-one (21) feet, with a handgun, and shall hit the target not less than eleven (11) times to obtain or maintain certification under KRS 237.138 to 237.142.
2. The rounds fired pursuant to paragraph (a) of this subsection shall be done under the supervision of:
  1. A firearms instructor of the retiree's former employing agency;
  2. A currently certified peace officer who has successfully completed a Kentucky Law Enforcement Council approved firearms instructor course;
  3. A Department of Criminal Justice Training certified police firearms instructor or instructor trainer; or
  4. A Department of Criminal Justice Training certified concealed carry instructor or instructor trainer.
3. A firearms instructor may, if not compensated pursuant to paragraph (d) of this subsection, charge each participant a fee of not more than twenty dollars ($20), which shall include the cost of the range, firearms instructor, range personnel, targets, and all other costs associated therewith, but not the cost of ammunition. Ammunition, or the cost of ammunition, shall be provided by the retiree.
4. A local or state law enforcement agency that desires to conduct firearms qualification for its retirees shall schedule not less than two (2) dates for firearms qualification per year, and those dates shall be approximately six (6) months apart. The local or state law enforcement agency may charge each participant a fee of not more than twenty dollars ($20), which shall include the cost of use of the range, firearms instructor, range personnel, targets, and all other costs associated therewith, but not the cost of ammunition. Ammunition, or the cost of ammunition, shall be provided by the retiree.
5. No employer or appointing authority of a firearms instructor who has successfully completed a Kentucky Law Enforcement Council approved firearms instructor course, Department of Criminal Justice Training certified police firearms instructor or instructor trainer, or Department of Criminal Justice Training certified concealed carry instructor or instructor trainer shall prohibit or in any way limit the instructor from qualifying active or retired peace officers in conformity with KRS 237.138 or 237.142 while that instructor is off duty. No employer or appointing authority of an instructor specified in this paragraph shall be liable in civil damages for the actions or omissions of the instructor during qualification of active or retired peace officers when that instructor is off duty.

Effective: June 25, 2009

History: Amended 2014 Ky, Acts ch. 118, sec. 1. -- Amended 2009 Ky. Acts ch. 47, sec. 1, effective June 25, 2009. -- Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 270, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 12, effective March 31, 2005.

The following agencies of the Commonwealth shall make range facilities available not less than four (4) days per year for firearms qualification by retired peace officers seeking certification pursuant to the provisions of KRS 237.138 to 237.142:
1. The Justice and Public Safety Cabinet;
2. The Department of Military Affairs; and
3. The Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources.
Firearms qualification may be conducted at any location, public or private, at which a handgun may be safely fired. The safety of the location at which firing takes place shall be the responsibility of the instructor conducting the qualification.

Effective: June 26, 2007

History: Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 85, sec. 271, effective June 26, 2007. -- Created 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 13, effective March 31, 2005.

As used in KRS 237.210 and 237.220:

"Shooting range" or "range" means an area designated and operated by a person for the shooting of firearms and not available for that use by the general public without payment of a fee, membership contribution, or dues, or by invitation of an authorized person; or any area so designated and operated by a unit of government, regardless of the terms of admission thereto.
"Unit of government" means any of the departments of state government or political subdivisions of the state, cities, counties, urban-counties, or charter counties, or any of their respective departments, agencies, or authorities.

Effective: July 15, 1998

History: Created 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 8, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1998.

No shooting range shall be or shall become a nuisance, either public or private, solely as a result of changed conditions in or around the locality of the range if the range has been in operation for one (1) year since the date on which it commenced operation as a shooting range. Subsequent physical expansion of the range or expansion of the types of firearms in use at the range shall not establish a new date of commencement of operations for purposes of this section unless the change triples the amount of the noise produced by the shooting range. The increase in the noise level at the shooting range shall be measured by an independent testing agency or a unit of government and shall compare the highest noise levels during any one (1) month during which the range is in full operation with a subsequent month in which the range is in full operation and conducting a comparable level of shooting activities. Only a person who lives adjacent to the shooting range shall have standing to bring an action under this section.
No shooting range or unit of government or person owning, operating, or using a shooting range for the shooting of firearms shall be subject to any action for civil or criminal liability, damages, abatement, or injunctive relief resulting from or relating to noise generated by the operation of the range if the range remains in compliance with noise control or nuisance abatement administrative regulations, statutes, or ordinances applicable to the range on the date on which it commenced operation.
No administrative regulations, statutes, or ordinances relating to noise control, noise pollution, or noise abatement adopted or enacted by a unit of government shall be applied retroactively to prohibit conduct at a shooting range, which conduct was lawful and being engaged in prior to the adoption or enactment of the administrative regulations, statutes, or ordinances.

Effective: July 15, 1998

History: Created 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 8, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1998.

The provisions of KRS 237.200 and 237.210 shall be retroactive and shall apply to covered actions either before, on, or after July 15, 1998.

Effective: July 15, 1998

History: Created 1998 Ky. Acts ch. 8, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1998.

Any person who violates any of the provisions of KRS 237.030 to 237.050 shall be guilty of a Class D felony.
Any person who violates any of the provisions of KRS 237.030 to 237.050, and in so doing uses any destructive device or booby trap device to avoid detection by law enforcement or other government personnel or to avoid theft or detection by any other person, of any controlled substance as set forth in KRS Chapter 218A and held in violation of KRS 218A.140, shall be guilty of a Class C felony.

Effective: July 14, 1992

History: Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 463, sec. 28, effective July 14, 1992. -- Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 384, sec. 1, effective July 13, 1990. -- Created 1972 Ky. Acts ch. 33, sec. 4.

Except as provided in subsection (3) of this section, no person shall be in possession of a loaded, as defined in KRS 237.060, firearm while actually within the room where alcoholic beverages are being sold by the drink of a building on premises licensed to sell distilled spirits and wine at retail by the drink for consumption on the licensed premises pursuant to KRS Chapter 243.
This section shall not apply to the owner manager, or employee of licensed premises, law enforcement officers, or special local peace officers commissioned pursuant to KRS 61.360.
This section shall not apply to a bona fide restaurant open to the general public having dining facilities for not less than fifty (50) persons and which receives less than fifty percent (50%) of its annual food and beverage income from the dining facilities by the sale of alcohol.
Nothing in this section shall be construed as permitting the carrying of a concealed deadly weapon in violation of KRS 527.020.
Any firearm possessed in violation of this section shall be subject to forfeiture and shall be disposed of pursuant to KRS 237.090.

Effective:July 12, 2012

History: Amended 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 125, sec. 8, effective July 12, 2012. -- Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 2, effective October 1, 1996. -- Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 6, effective July 15, 1994.

A person or entity shall not be held liable for damages of any kind resulting from injuries to another person sustained as a result of the criminal use of any firearm by a third person, unless the person or entity conspired with the third person to commit, or willfully aided, abetted, or caused the commission of, the criminal act in which the firearm was used.
This section shall not be construed to negate, limit, or modify the doctrine of negligence or strict liability relating to abnormally dangerous products or activities and defective products.

Effective: July 15, 1988

History: Created 1988 Ky. Acts ch. 223, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1988.

As used in the Kentucky Penal Code, unless the context otherwise requires:

"Actor" means any natural person and, where relevant, a corporation or an unincorporated association;
"Crime" means a misdemeanor or a felony;
"Dangerous instrument" means any instrument, including parts of the human body when a serious physical injury is a direct result of the use of that part of the human body, article, or substance which, under the circumstances in which it is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used, is readily capable of causing death or serious physical injury;
"Deadly weapon" means any of the following:
1. A weapon of mass destruction;
2. Any weapon from which a shot, readily capable of producing death or other serious physical injury, may be discharged;
3. Any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife;
4. Billy, nightstick, or club;
5. Blackjack or slapjack;
6. Nunchaku karate sticks;
7. Shuriken or death star; or
8. Artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material;
"Felony" means an offense for which a sentence to a term of imprisonment of at least one (1) year in the custody of the Department of Corrections may be imposed;
"Government" means the United States, any state, county, municipality, or other political unit, or any department, agency, or subdivision of any of the foregoing, or any corporation or other association carrying out the functions of government;
"He" means any natural person and, where relevant, a corporation or an unincorporated association;
"Law" includes statutes, ordinances, and properly adopted regulatory provisions. Unless the context otherwise clearly requires, "law" also includes the common law;
"Minor" means any person who has not reached the age of majority as defined in KRS 2.015;
"Misdemeanor" means an offense, other than a traffic infraction, for which a sentence to a term of imprisonment of not more than twelve (12) months can be imposed;
"Offense" means conduct for which a sentence to a term of imprisonment or to a fine is provided by any law of this state or by any law, local law, or ordinance of a political subdivision of this state or by any law, order, rule, or regulation of any governmental instrumentality authorized by law to adopt the same;
"Person" means a human being, and where appropriate, a public or private corporation, an unincorporated association, a partnership, a government, or a governmental authority;
"Physical injury" means substantial physical pain or any impairment of physical condition;
"Possession" means to have actual physical possession or otherwise to exercise actual dominion or control over a tangible object;
"Serious physical injury" means physical injury which creates a substantial risk of death, or which causes serious and prolonged disfigurement, prolonged impairment of health, or prolonged loss or impairment of the function of any bodily organ;
"Unlawful" means contrary to law or, where the context so requires, not permitted by law. It does not mean wrongful or immoral;
"Violation" means an offense, other than a traffic infraction, for which a sentence to a fine only can be imposed; and
"Weapon of mass destruction" means:
1. Any destructive device as defined in KRS 237.030, but not fireworks as defined in KRS 227.700;
2. Any weapon that is designed or intended to cause death or serious physical injury through the release, dissemination, or impact of toxic or poisonous chemicals or their precursors;
3. Any weapon involving a disease organism; or
4. Any weapon that is designed to release radiation or radioactivity at a level dangerous to human life.

Effective:June 21, 2001

History: Amended 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 113, sec. 7, effective June 21, 2001. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 211, sec. 130, effective July 14, 1992. -- Amended 1990 Ky. Acts ch. 282, sec. 1, effective July 13, 1990. -- Amended 1986 Ky. Acts ch. 331, sec. 56, effective July 15, 1986. -- Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 78, sec.b 1, effective June 17, 1978. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 8, effective January 1, 1975; and ch. 74, Art. V, sec. 24(14).

The following definitions apply in this chapter unless the context otherwise requires:

"Deadly physical force" means force which is used with the purpose of causing death or serious physical injury or which the defendant knows to create a substantial risk of causing death or serious physical injury.
"Dwelling" means a building or conveyance of any kind, including any attached porch, whether the building or conveyance is temporary or permanent, mobile or immobile, which has a roof over it, including a tent, and is designed to be occupied by people lodging therein at night.
"Imminent" means impending danger, and, in the context of domestic violence and abuse as defined by KRS 403.720, belief that danger is imminent can be inferred from a past pattern of repeated serious abuse.
"Physical force" means force used upon or directed toward the body of another person and includes confinement.
"Residence" means a dwelling in which a person resides either temporarily or permanently or is visiting as an invited guest.
"Vehicle" means a conveyance of any kind, whether or not motorized, which is designed to transport people or property.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 173, sec. 1, effective July 14, 1992. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 26, effective January 1, 1975.

In any prosecution for an offense, justification, as defined in this chapter, is a defense.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 27, effective January 1, 1975.

Unless inconsistent with the ensuing sections of this code defining justifiable use of physical force or with some other provisions of law, conduct which would otherwise constitute an offense is justifiable when the defendant believes it to be necessary to avoid an imminent public or private injury greater than the injury which is sought to be prevented by the statute defining the offense charged, except that no justification can exist under this section for an intentional homicide.
When the defendant believes that conduct which would otherwise constitute an offense is necessary for the purpose described in subsection (1), but is wanton or reckless in having such belief, or when the defendant is wanton or reckless in bringing about a situation requiring the conduct described in subsection (1), the justification afforded by this section is unavailable in a prosecution for any offense for which wantonness or recklessness, as the case may be, suffices to establish culpability.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 28, effective January 1, 1975.

Unless inconsistent with the ensuing sections of this code defining justifiable use of physical force or with some other provisions of law, conduct which would otherwise constitute an offense is justifiable when it is required or authorized by a provision of law imposing a public duty or by a judicial decree.
The justification afforded by subsection (1) applies when:
1. The defendant believes his conduct to be required or authorized by the judgment or direction of a competent court or tribunal or in the lawful execution of legal process, notwithstanding lack of jurisdiction of the court or defect in the legal process; or
2. The defendant believes his conduct to be required or authorized to assist a public officer in the performance of his duties, notwithstanding that the officer exceeded his legal authority.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 29, effective January 1, 1975.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant believes that such force is necessary to protect himself against the use or imminent use of unlawful physical force by the other person.
The use of deadly physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable under subsection (1) only when the defendant believes that such force is necessary to protect himself against death, serious physical injury, kidnapping, sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat, felony involving the use of force, or under those circumstances permitted pursuant to KRS 503.055.
Any evidence presented by the defendant to establish the existence of a prior act or acts of domestic violence and abuse as defined in KRS 403.720 by the person against whom the defendant is charged with employing physical force shall be admissible under this section.
A person does not have a duty to retreat prior to the use of deadly physical force.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 3, effective July 12, 2006. -- Amended 1992 Ky. Acts ch. 173, sec. 2, effective July 14, 1992. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 30, effective January 1, 1975.

A person is presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or great bodily harm to himself or herself or another when using defensive force that is intended or likely to cause death or great bodily harm to another if:
1. The person against whom the defensive force was used was in the process of unlawfully and forcibly entering or had unlawfully and forcibly entered a dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle, or if that person had removed or was attempting to remove another against that person's will from the dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle; and
2. The person who uses defensive force knew or had reason to believe that an unlawful and forcible entry or unlawful and forcible act was occurring or had occurred.
The presumption set forth in subsection (1) of this section does not apply if:
1. The person against whom the defensive force is used has the right to be in or is a lawful resident of the dwelling, residence, or vehicle, such as an owner, lessee, or titleholder, and there is not an injunction for protection from domestic violence or a written pretrial supervision order of no contact against that person;
2. The person sought to be removed is a child or grandchild, or is otherwise in the lawful custody or under the lawful guardianship of the person against whom the defensive force is used;
3. The person who uses defensive force is engaged in an unlawful activity or is using the dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle to further an unlawful activity; or
4. The person against whom the defensive force is used is a peace officer, as defined in KRS 446.010, who enters or attempts to enter a dwelling, residence, or vehicle in the performance of his or her official duties, and the officer identified himself or herself in accordance with any applicable law or the person using force knew or reasonably should have known that the person entering or attempting to enter was a peace officer.
A person who is not engaged in an unlawful activity and who is attacked in any other place where he or she has a right to be has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground and meet force with force, including deadly force, if he or she reasonably believes it is necessary to do so to prevent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself or another or to prevent the commission of a felony involving the use of force.
A person who unlawfully and by force enters or attempts to enter a person's dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle is presumed to be doing so with the intent to commit an unlawful act involving force or violence.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 2, effective July 12, 2006.

Notwithstanding the provisions of KRS 503.050, the use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is not justifiable when:

The defendant is resisting an arrest by a peace officer, recognized to be acting under color of official authority and using no more force than reasonably necessary to effect the arrest, although the arrest is unlawful; or
The defendant, with the intention of causing death or serious physical injury to the other person, provokes the use of physical force by such other person; or
The defendant was the initial aggressor, except that his use of physical force upon the other person under this circumstance is justifiable when:
1. His initial physical force was nondeadly and the force returned by the other is such that he believes himself to be in imminent danger of death or serious physical injury; or
2. He withdraws from the encounter and effectively communicates to the other person his intent to do so and the latter nevertheless continues or threatens the use of unlawful physical force.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 31, effective January 1, 1975.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when:
1. The defendant believes that such force is necessary to protect a third person against the use or imminent use of unlawful physical force by the other person; and
2. Under the circumstances as the defendant believes them to be, the person whom he seeks to protect would himself have been justified under KRS 503.050 and 503.060 in using such protection.
The use of deadly physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when:
1. The defendant believes that such force is necessary to protect a third person against imminent death, serious physical injury, kidnapping, sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat, or other felony involving the use of force, or under those circumstances permitted pursuant to KRS 503.055; and
2. Under the circumstances as they actually exist, the person whom he seeks to protect would himself have been justified under KRS 503.050 and 503.060 in using such protection.
A person does not have a duty to retreat if the person is in a place where he or she has a right to be.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 4, effective July 12, 2006. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 32, effective January 1, 1975.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant believes that such force is immediately necessary to prevent:
1. The commission of criminal trespass, robbery, burglary, or other felony involving the use of force, or under those circumstances permitted pursuant to KRS 503.055, in a dwelling, building or upon real property in his possession or in the possession of another person for whose protection he acts; or
2. Theft, criminal mischief, or any trespassory taking of tangible, movable property in his possession or in the possession of another person for whose protection he acts.
The use of deadly physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable under subsection (1) only when the defendant believes that the person against whom such force is used is:
1. Attempting to dispossess him of his dwelling otherwise than under a claim of right to its possession; or
2. Committing or attempting to commit a burglary, robbery, or other felony involving the use of force, or under those circumstances permitted pursuant to KRS 503.055, of such dwelling; or
3. Committing or attempting to commit arson of a dwelling or other building in his possession.
A person does not have a duty to retreat if the person is in a place where he or she has a right to be.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 5, effective July 12, 2006. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 33, effective January 1, 1975.

A person who uses force as permitted in KRS 503.050, 503.055, 503.070, and 503.080 is justified in using such force and is immune from criminal prosecution and civil action for the use of such force, unless the person against whom the force was used is a peace officer, as defined in KRS 446.010, who was acting in the performance of his or her official duties and the officer identified himself or herself in accordance with any applicable law, or the person using force knew or reasonably should have known that the person was a peace officer. As used in this subsection, the term "criminal prosecution" includes arresting, detaining in custody, and charging or prosecuting the defendant.
A law enforcement agency may use standard procedures for investigating the use of force as described in subsection (1) of this section, but the agency may not arrest the person for using force unless it determines that there is probable cause that the force that was used was unlawful.
The court shall award reasonable attorney's fees, court costs, compensation for loss of income, and all expenses incurred by the defendant in defense of any civil action brought by a plaintiff, if the court finds that the defendant is immune from prosecution as provided in subsection (1) of this section.

Effective: July 12, 2006

History: Created 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 192, sec. 6, effective July 12, 2006.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant, acting under official authority, is making or assisting in making an arrest, and he:
1. Believes that such force is necessary to effect the arrest;
2. Makes known the purpose of the arrest or believes that it is otherwise known or cannot reasonably be made known to the person to be arrested; and
3. Believes the arrest to be lawful.
The use of deadly physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable under subsection (1) only when:
1. The defendant, in effecting the arrest, is authorized to act as a peace officer; and
2. The arrest is for a felony involving the use or threatened use of physical force likely to cause death or serious physical injury; and
3. The defendant believes that the person to be arrested is likely to endanger human life unless apprehended without delay.
The use of physical force, including deadly physical force, by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant is preventing the escape of an arrested person and when the force could justifiably have been used to effect the arrest under which the person is in custody, except that a guard or other person authorized to act as a peace officer is justified in using any force, including deadly force, which he believes to be necessary to prevent the escape of a person from jail, prison, or other institution for the detention of persons charged with or convicted of a crime.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 34, effective January 1, 1975.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant believes that such force is immediately necessary to prevent such other person from:
1. Committing suicide or inflicting serious physical injury upon himself; or
2. Committing a crime involving or threatening serious physical injury to person, substantial damage to or loss of property, or any other violent conduct.
The use of deadly physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable under subsection (1)(b) only when the defendant believes that the person whom he seeks to prevent from committing a crime is likely to endanger human life.
The limitations imposed on the justifiable use of force in self-protection by KRS 503.050 and 503.060, for the protection of others by KRS 503.070, for the protection of property by KRS 503.080, and for the effectuation of an arrest or the prevention of an escape by KRS 503.090 apply notwithstanding the criminality of the conduct against which such force is used.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 35, effective January 1, 1975.

The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant is a parent, guardian, or other person entrusted with the care and supervision of a minor or an incompetent person or when the defendant is a teacher or other person entrusted with the care and supervision of a minor, for a special purpose, and:
1. The defendant believes that the force used is necessary to promote the welfare of a minor or mentally disabled person or, if the defendant's responsibility for the minor or mentally disabled person is for a special purpose, to further that special purpose or maintain reasonable discipline in a school, class, or other group; and
2. The force that is used is not designed to cause or known to create a substantial risk of causing death, serious physical injury, disfigurement, extreme pain, or extreme mental distress.
The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant is a warden or other authorized official of a correctional institution, and:
1. The defendant believes that the force used is necessary for the purpose of enforcing the lawful rules of the institution;
2. The degree of force used is not forbidden by any statute governing the administration of the institution; and
3. If deadly force is used, its use is otherwise justifiable under this code.
The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant is a person responsible for the operation of or the maintenance of order in a vehicle or other carrier of passengers and the defendant believes that such force is necessary to prevent interference with its operation or to maintain order in thevehicle or other carrier, except that deadly physical force may be used only when the defendant believes it necessary to prevent death or serious physical injury.
The use of physical force by a defendant upon another person is justifiable when the defendant is a doctor or other therapist or a person assisting him at his direction, and:
1. The force is used for the purpose of administering a recognized form of treatment which the defendant believes to be adapted to promoting the physical or mental health of the patient; and
2. The treatment is administered with the consent of the patient or, if the patient is a minor or a mentally disabled person, with the consent of the parent, guardian, or other person legally competent to consent in his behalf, or the treatment is administered in an emergency when the defendant believes that no one competent to consent can be consulted and that a reasonable person, wishing to safeguard the welfare of the patient, would consent.

Effective: July 1, 1982

History: Amended 1982 Ky. Acts ch. 141, sec. 135, effective July 1, 1982. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 36, effective January 1, 1975.Note: 1980 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 147 would have amended this section effective July 1, 1982. However, 1980 Ky. Acts ch. 396 was repealed by 1982 Ky. Acts ch. 141, sec. 146, also effective July 1, 1982.

When the defendant believes that the use of force upon or toward the person of another is necessary for any of the purposes for which such belief would establish a justification under KRS 503.050 to 503.110 but the defendant is wanton or reckless in believing the use of any force, or the degree of force used, to be necessary or in acquiring or failing to acquire any knowledge or belief which is material to the justifiability of his use of force, the justification afforded by those sections is unavailable in a prosecution for an offense for which wantonness or recklessness, as the case may be, suffices to establish culpability.
When the defendant is justified under KRS 503.050 to 503.110 in using force upon or toward the person of another, but he wantonly or recklessly injures or creates a risk of injury to innocent persons, the justification afforded by those sections is unavailable in a prosecution for an offense involving wantonness or recklessness toward innocent persons.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 37, effective January 1, 1975.

1. Before January 1, 2016, a verdict of guilty or a plea of guilty to KRS 508.140 or 508.150 shall operate as an application for a restraining order utilizing the provisions of this section and limiting the contact of the defendant and the victim who was stalked, unless the victim requests otherwise.
2. Beginning January 1, 2016, a verdict of guilty or a plea of guilty to KRS 508.140 or 508.150 shall operate as an application for an interpersonal protective order issued under KRS Chapter 456, unless the victim requests otherwise. Notwithstanding the provisions of KRS Chapter 456:
  1. An interpersonal protective order requested under this subsection may be issued by the court that entered the judgment of conviction;
  2. The judgment of conviction shall constitute sufficient cause for the entry of the order without the necessity of further proof being taken; and
  3. The order may be effective for up to ten (10) years, with further renewals in increments of up to ten (10) years.
The court shall give the defendant notice of his or her right to request a hearing on the application for a restraining order. If the defendant waives his or her right to a hearing on this matter, then the court may issue the restraining order without a hearing.
If the defendant requests a hearing, it shall be held at the time of the verdict or plea of guilty, unless the victim or defendant requests otherwise. The hearing shall be held in the court where the verdict or plea of guilty was entered.
A restraining order may grant the following specific relief:
1. An order restraining the defendant from entering the residence, property, school, or place of employment of the victim; or
2. An order restraining the defendant from making contact with the victim, including an order forbidding the defendant from personally, or through an agent, initiating any communication likely to cause serious alarm, annoyance, intimidation, or harassment, including but not limited to personal, written, telephonic, or any other form of written or electronic communication or contact with the victim. An order issued pursuant to this subsection relating to a school, place of business, or similar nonresidential location shall be sufficiently limited to protect the stalking victim but shall also protect the defendant's right to employment, education, or the right to do legitimate business with the employer of a stalking victim as long as the defendant does not have contact with the stalking victim. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to a contact by an attorney regarding a legal matter.
A restraining order issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for a period of not more than ten (10) years, the specific duration of which shall be determined by the court. Any restraining order shall be based upon the seriousness of the facts before the court, the probability of future violations, and the safety of the victim, his or her immediate family, or both.
Unless the defendant has been convicted of a felony, or is otherwise ineligible to purchase or possess a firearm under federal law, a restraining order issued pursuant to this section shall not operate as a ban on the purchase or possession of firearms or ammunition by the defendant.
The restraining order shall be issued on a form prescribed by the Administrative Office of the Courts and may be lifted upon application of the stalking victim to the court which granted the order.
Within twenty-four (24) hours of entry of a restraining order or entry of an order rescinding a restraining order, the circuit clerk shall forward a copy of the order to the Law Information Network of Kentucky (LINK).
A restraining order issued under this section shall be enforced in any county of the Commonwealth. Law enforcement officers acting in good faith in enforcing a restraining order shall be immune from criminal and civil liability.
A violation by the defendant of an order issued pursuant to this section shall bea Class A misdemeanor. Nothing in this section shall preclude the filing of a criminal complaint for stalking based on the same act which is the basis for the violation of the restraining order.

Effective: January 1, 2016

History: Amended 2015 Ky. Acts HB8, sec. 30, effective January 1, 2016 --Created 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 2, effective July 15, 2002.

The following definitions apply in this chapter unless the context otherwise requires:

"Booby trap device" shall have the same meaning as set forth in KRS 237.030.
"Deface" means to remove, deface, cover, alter, or destroy the manufacturer's serialnumber or any other distinguishing number or identification mark.
"Destructive device" shall have the same meaning as set forth in KRS 237.030.
"Firearm" means any weapon which will expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.
"Handgun" means any pistol or revolver originally designed to be fired by the use of a single hand, or any other firearm originally designed to be fired by the use of a single hand.

Effective: July 15, 1994

History: Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 391, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1994. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 234, effective January 1, 1975.

A person is guilty of carrying a concealed weapon when he or she carries concealed a firearm or other deadly weapon on or about his or her person in violation of this section.
Peace officers and certified court security officers, when necessary for their protection in the discharge of their official duties; United States mail carriers when actually engaged in their duties; agents and messengers of express companies, when necessary for their protection in the discharge of their official duties, and retired peace officers certified under Section 1 of this Act, when necessary for their protection, may carry concealed weapons on or about their person.
The director of the Division of Law Enforcement in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, conservation officers of the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, and policemen directly employed by state, county, city, or urban-county governments may carry concealed deadly weapons on or about their person at all times within the Commonwealth of Kentucky, when expressly authorized to do so by law or by the government employing the officer.
Persons carrying concealed weapons in accordance with Section 1 of this Act or licensed to carry a concealed deadly weapon pursuant to KRS 237.110 may carry a concealed firearm or other concealed deadly weapon on or about their persons at all times within the Commonwealth of Kentucky, if the firearm or concealed deadly weapon is carried in conformity with the requirements of Section 1 of this Act or KRS 237.110. Unless otherwise specifically provided by the Kentucky Revised Statutes or applicable federal law, no criminal penalty shall attach to carrying a concealed firearm or other deadly weapon at any location at which an unconcealed firearm or other deadly weapon may be constitutionally carried. No person or organization, public or private, shall prohibit a person from possessing a firearm, ammunition, or both, or other deadly weapon in his or her vehicle in compliance with the provisions of Section 1 of this Act, KRS 237.110 and 237.115. Any attempt by a person or organization, public or private, to violate the provisions of this subsection may be the subject of an action for appropriate relief or for damages in a Circuit Court or District Court of competent jurisdiction.
1. The following persons, if they hold a license to carry a concealed deadly weapon pursuant to KRS 237.110 or 237.138 to 237.142, may carry a firearm or other concealed deadly weapon on or about their persons at all times and at all locations within the Commonwealth of Kentucky, without any limitation other than as provided in this subsection:
  1. A Commonwealth's attorney or assistant Commonwealth's attorney;
  2. A retired Commonwealth's attorney or retired assistant Commonwealth's attorney;
  3. A county attorney or assistant county attorney;
  4. A retired county attorney or retired assistant county attorney;
  5. A justice or judge of the Court of Justice; and
  6. A retired or senior status justice or judge of the Court of Justice.
  7. A retired peace officer who holds a concealed deadly weapon license issued pursuant to the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act, 18 U.S.C. sec. 926C, and KRS 237.138 to 237.142.
2. The provisions of this subsection shall not authorize a person specified in this subsection to carry a concealed deadly weapon in a detention facility as defined in KRS 520.010 or on the premises of a detention facility without the permission of the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the facility, or the permission of a person authorized by the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the detention facility to give such permission. As used in this section, "detention facility" does not include courtrooms, facilities, or other premises used by the Court of Justice or administered by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
3. A person specified in this section who is issued a concealed deadly weapon license shall be issued a license which bears on its face the statement that it is valid at all locations within the Commonwealth of Kentucky and may have such other identifying characteristics as determined by the Department of Kentucky State Police.
1. Except as provided in this subsection, the following persons may carry concealed deadly weapons on or about their person at all times and at all locations within the Commonwealth of Kentucky:
  1. An elected sheriff and full-time and part-time deputy sheriffs certified pursuant to KRS 15.380 to 15.404 when expressly authorized to do so by the unit of government employing the officer;
  2. An elected jailer and a deputy jailer who has successfully completed Department of Corrections basic training and maintains his or her current in-service training when expressly authorized to do so by the jailer; and
  3. The department head or any employee of a corrections department in any jurisdiction where the office of elected jailer has been merged with the office of sheriff who has successfully completed Department of Corrections basic training and maintains his or her current in-service training when expressly authorized to do so by the unit of government by which he or she is employed.
2. The provisions of this subsection shall not authorize a person specified in this subsection to carry a concealed deadly weapon in a detention facility as defined in KRS 520.010 or on the premises of a detention facility without the permission of the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the facility, or the permission of a person authorized by the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the detention facility to give such permission. As used in this section, "detention facility" does not include courtrooms, facilities, or other premises used by the Court of Justice or administered by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
1. A full-time paid peace officer of a government agency from another state or territory of the United States or an elected sheriff from another territory of the United States may carry a concealed deadly weapon in Kentucky, on or off duty, if the other state or territory accords a Kentucky full-time paid peace officer and a Kentucky elected sheriff the same rights by law. If the other state or territory limits a Kentucky full-time paid peace officer or elected sheriff to carrying a concealed deadly weapon while on duty, then that same restriction shall apply to a full-time paid peace officer or elected sheriff from that state or territory.
2. The provisions of this subsection shall not authorize a person specified in this subsection to carry a concealed deadly weapon in a detention facility as defined in KRS 520.010 or on the premises of a detention facility without the permission of the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the facility, or the permission of a person authorized by the warden, jailer, or other person in charge of the detention facility to give such permission. As used in this section, "detention facility" does not include courtrooms, facilities, or other premises used by the Court of Justice or administered by the Administrative Office of the Courts.
A loaded or unloaded firearm or other deadly weapon shall not be deemed concealed on or about the person if it is located in any enclosed container, compartment, or storage space installed as original equipment in a motor vehicle by its manufacturer, including but not limited to a glove compartment, center console, or seat pocket, regardless of whether said enclosed container, storage space, or compartment is locked, unlocked, or does not have a locking mechanism. No person or organization, public or private, shall prohibit a person from keeping a loaded or unloaded firearm or ammunition, or both, or other deadly weapon in a vehicle in accordance with the provisions of this subsection. Any attempt by a person or organization, public or private, to violate the provisions of this subsection may be the subject of an action for appropriate relief or for damages in a Circuit Court or District Court of competent jurisdiction. This subsection shall not apply to any person prohibited from possessing a firearm pursuant to KRS 527.040.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to a person who carries a concealed deadly weapon on or about his or her person:
1. If he or she is the owner of the property or has the permission of the owner of the property, on real property which he or she or his or her spouse, parent, grandparent, or child owns;
2. If he or she is the lessee of the property or has the permission of the lessee of the property, on real property which he or she or his or her spouse, parent, grandparent, or child occupies pursuant to a lease; or
3. If he or she is the sole proprietor of the business, on real property owned or leased by the business.
Carrying a concealed weapon is a Class A misdemeanor, unless the defendant has been previously convicted of a felony in which a deadly weapon was possessed, used, or displayed, in which case it is a Class D felony.

Effective: July 12, 2012

History: Amended 2014 Ky. Acts ch. 118, sec. 2; and ch, 120, sec. 1. -- Amended 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 62, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2012; and ch. 109, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2012. -- Amended 2011 Ky. Acts ch. 64, sec. 1, effective June 8, 2011. -- Amended 2007 Ky. Acts ch. 54, sec. 14, effective June 26, 2007; and ch. 85, sec. 329, effective June 26, 2007. -- Amended 2005 Ky. Acts ch. 182, sec. 17, effective March 31, 2005. -- Amended 2002 Ky. Acts ch. 368, sec. 1, effective July 15, 2002. -- Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 3, effective October 1, 1996. --Amended 1978 Ky. Acts ch. 342, sec. 2, effective June 17, 1978. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 235, effective January 1, 1975. Amended 2019 KY Acts ch. 010 sec. 2

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/12/2012). This statute was amended by 2012 Ky. Acts chs. 62 and 109, which do not appear to be in conflict and have been codified together.

A person is guilty of defacing a firearm when he intentionally defaces a firearm.
Defacing a firearm is a Class A misdemeanor.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 236, effective January 1, 1975.

A person is guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon when he possesses, manufactures, or transports a firearm when he has been convicted of a felony, as defined by the laws of the jurisdiction in which he was convicted, in any state or federal court and has not:
1. Been granted a full pardon by the Governor or by the President of the United States; or
2. Been granted relief by the United States Secretary of the Treasury pursuant to the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968, as amended.
1. Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon is a Class D felony unless the firearm possessed is a handgun in which case it is a Class C felony.
2. If a felon is convicted of a criminal offense other than possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and he or she possessed a firearm in furtherance of that offense, then the felon shall be penalized for violating this section one (1) class more severely if it is a second or subsequent violation of this section.
The provisions of this section shall apply to any youthful offender convicted of a felony offense under the laws of this Commonwealth. The exceptions contained in KRS 527.100 prohibiting possession of a handgun by a minor shall not apply to this section.
The provisions of this section with respect to handguns, shall apply only to persons convicted after January 1, 1975, and with respect to other firearms, to persons convicted after July 15, 1994.

Effective: July 15, 1994.

History: Amended 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 30, sec. 3, effective July 15, 1994; and ch. 396, sec. 10, effective July 15, 1994. -- Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 237, effective January 1, 1975. Amended 2018 ch. 123

Legislative Research Commission Note (7/15/94). This section was amended by 1994 Ky. Acts chs. 30 and 396 which do not appear to be in conflict and have been codified together.

A person is guilty of possession of a defaced firearm when he knowingly possesses a defaced firearm unless he makes a report to the police or other appropriate government agency of such possession prior to arrest or authorization of a warrant by a court.
Possession of a defaced firearm is a Class A misdemeanor.

Effective: January 1, 1975

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 238, effective January 1, 1975.

Upon the conviction of any person for the violation of any law of this Commonwealth in which a deadly weapon was used, displayed or unlawfully possessed by such person the court shall order the weapon forfeited to the state and sold, destroyed or otherwisedisposed of in accordance with KRS 500.090.

History: Created 1974 Ky. Acts ch. 406, sec. 239.

A person is guilty of unlawful possession of a weapon on school property when he knowingly deposits, possesses, or carries, whether openly or concealed, for purposes other than instructional or school-sanctioned ceremonial purposes, or the purposes permitted in subsection (3) of this section, any firearm or other deadly weapon, destructive device, or booby trap device in any public or private school building or bus, on any public or private school campus, grounds, recreation area, athletic field, or any other property owned, used, or operated by any board of education, school, board of trustees, regents, or directors for the administration of any public or private educational institution. The provisions of this section shall not apply to institutions of postsecondary or higher education.
Each chief administrator of a public or private school shall display about the school in prominent locations, including, but not limited to, sports arenas, gymnasiums, stadiums, and cafeterias, a sign at least six (6) inches high and fourteen (14) inches wide stating:
UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A WEAPON ON SCHOOL PROPERTY IN KENTUCKY IS A FELONY PUNISHABLE BY A MAXIMUM OF FIVE (5) YEARS IN PRISON AND A TEN THOUSAND DOLLAR ($10,000) FINE.

Failure to post the sign shall not relieve any person of liability under this section.
The provisions of this section prohibiting the unlawful possession of a weapon on school property shall not apply to:
1. An adult who is not a pupil of any secondary school and who possesses a firearm, if the firearm is contained within a vehicle operated by the adult and is not removed from the vehicle, except for a purpose permitted herein, or brandished by the adult, or by any other person acting with expressed or implied consent of the adult, while the vehicle is on school property;
2. Any pupils who are members of the reserve officers training corps or pupils enrolled in a course of instruction or members of a school club or team, to the extent they are required to carry arms or weapons in the discharge of their official class or team duties;
3. Any peace officer or police officer authorized to carry a concealed weapon pursuant to KRS 527.020;
4. Persons employed by the Armed Forces of the United States or members of the National Guard or militia when required in the discharge of their official duties to carry arms or weapons;
5. Civil officers of the United States in the discharge of their official duties. Nothing in this section shall be construed as to allow any person to carry a concealed weapon into a public or private elementary or secondary school building;
6. Any other persons, including, but not limited to, exhibitors of historical displays, who have been authorized to carry a firearm by the board of education or board of trustees of the public or private institution;
7. A person hunting during the lawful hunting season on lands owned by any public or private educational institution and designated as open to hunting by the board of education or board of trustees of the educational institution;
8. A person possessing unloaded hunting weapons while traversing the grounds of any public or private educational institution for the purpose of gaining access to public or private lands open to hunting with the intent to hunt on the public or private lands, unless the lands of the educational institution are posted prohibiting the entry; or
9. A person possessing guns or knives when conducting or attending a "gun and knife show" when the program has been approved by the board of education or board of trustees of the educational institution.
Unlawful possession of a weapon on school property is a Class D felony.

Effective: October 1, 1996

History: Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 119, sec. 4, effective October 1, 1996. -- Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 391, sec. 1, effective October 1, 1994. Amended 2019 KY Acts ch. 111

A person is guilty of using restricted ammunition during the commission of a crime when he commits any felony offense under this code and is armed at the time of the commission of the offense or in the immediate flight therefrom with a firearm loaded, as defined in KRS 237.060, with armor-piercing ammunition as defined in KRS 237.060 or flanged ammunition as defined in KRS 237.060.
Using restricted ammunition during the commission of a crime is:
1. A Class D felony if no shot is fired;
2. A Class C felony if a shot is fired and no person is killed or wounded thereby;
3. A Class B felony if a shot is fired and a person other than the defendant or an accomplice of the defendant is wounded by the shot; and
4. A Class A felony if a shot is fired and a person other than the defendant or an accomplice of the defendant is killed by the shot.
The provisions of this section are intended to be a separate offense from the underlying crime, which shall be punished separately. If a person is convicted of this offense, his sentence shall be served consecutively to the sentence for the underlying offense.
The provisions of this section shall not apply to any person who is justified in acting pursuant to the provisions of KRS Chapter 503.

Effective: July 15, 1996

History: Amended 1996 Ky. Acts ch. 191, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1996. -- Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 396, sec. 15, effective July 15, 1994.

As used in this section:
1. "Licensed dealer" means a person who is licensed pursuant to 18 U.S.C. sec. 923 and pursuant to any laws of this Commonwealth and engages in the business of dealing in firearms;
2. "Materially false information" means information that portrays an illegal transaction as legal or a legal transaction as illegal; and
3. "Private seller" means a person who sells or offers for sale any firearm.
A person is guilty of fraudulent firearm transaction when he or she knowingly:
1. Solicits, persuades, encourages, or entices a licensed dealer or private seller of firearms to transfer a firearm under circumstances which the person knows would violate the laws of this Commonwealth or the United States;
2. Provides to a licensed dealer or private seller of firearms what the person knows to be materially false information with intent to deceive the dealer or seller about the legality of a transfer of a firearm; or
3. Procures another to engage in conduct prohibited by this section.
Fraudulent firearm transaction is a Class D felony.

Effective: July 12, 2012

History: Created 2012 Ky. Acts ch. 121, sec. 1, effective July 12, 2012.

A person is guilty of possession of a handgun by a minor when, being under the age of eighteen (18) years, he possesses, manufactures, or transports a handgun as defined by KRS 527.010, except when the person is:
1. In attendance at a hunter's safety course or a firearms safety course;
2. Engaging in practice in the use of a firearm, or target shooting at an established firing range, or any other area where the discharge of a firearm is not prohibited;
3. Engaging in an organized competition involving the use of a firearm, or participating in or practicing for a performance by a group organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or any successor thereto which uses firearms as a part of the performance;
4. Hunting or trapping pursuant to a valid license issued to him pursuant to the statutes or administrative regulations of this Commonwealth;
5. Traveling to or from any activity described in paragraphs (a) to (d) of this subsection with any unloaded handgun in his possession;
6. On real property which is under the control of an adult and has the permission of that adult and his parent or legal guardian to possess a handgun; or
7. At his residence and with the permission of his parent or legal guardian possesses a handgun and is justified under the principles of justification set forth in KRS Chapter 503 in using physical force or deadly physical force.
For the purposes of subsection (1) of this section, a handgun is "loaded" if:
1. There is a cartridge in the chamber of the handgun; or
2. There is a cartridge in the cylinder of the handgun, if the handgun is a revolver; or
3. There is a cartridge in the magazine of a semiautomatic handgun, if the magazine is attached to the handgun; or
4. The handgun and the ammunition for the handgun, are carried on the person of one under the age of eighteen (18) years or are in such close proximity to him that he could readily gain access to the handgun and the ammunition and load the handgun.
Possession of a handgun by a minor is a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class D felony for each subsequent offense.

Effective: July 15, 1994

History: Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 30, sec. 1, effective July 15, 1994.

A person is guilty of unlawfully providing a handgun to a juvenile or permitting a juvenile to possesses a handgun when he:
1. Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly provides a handgun, with or without remuneration, in violation of KRS 527.040, 527.100, or 600.020 to any person he knows or has reason to believe is under the age of eighteen (18) years; or
2. Is the parent or legal guardian of a juvenile and intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly provides a handgun to the juvenile or permits the juvenile to possess a handgun knowing that there is a substantial risk that the juvenile will use a handgun to commit a felony offense; or, with knowledge that the juvenile has been convicted of a crime of violence as defined in KRS 439.3401 or has been adjudicated a public offender of an offense which would constitute a crime of violence as defined in KRS 439.3401, provides a handgun to that juvenile.
Unlawfully providing a hand gun to a juvenile or permitting a juvenile to possess a handgun is a Class D felony.

Effective: July 15, 1994

History: Created 1994 Ky. Acts ch. 30, sec. 2, effective July 15, 1994.

A person is guilty of use of a weapon of mass destruction in the first degree when he or she intentionally, without lawful authority, places a weapon of mass destruction at any location in the Commonwealth and, as a result, any person other than the defendant is killed or receives serious physical injury.
A weapon of mass destruction is used with lawful authority if it is used with the written permission of an agency of the Commonwealth or of a city, county, charter county, or urban-county government having jurisdiction over the use of destructive devices as defined in KRS 237.030 or the use of explosives.
Use of a weapon of mass destruction in the first degree is a Class A felony unless a person other than the defendant is killed as a result, in which case it is a capital offense.

Effective: June 21, 2001

History: Created 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 113, sec. 4, effective June 21, 2001.

A person is guilty of use of a weapon of mass destruction in the second degree when intentionally, without lawful authority, he or she:
1. Places a weapon of mass destruction at any location in the Commonwealth and, as a result, any person other than the defendant receives physical injury; or
2. Places a weapon of mass destruction on:
  1. The real property or any building of any public or private elementary or secondary school, vocational school, or institution of postsecondary education;
  2. A school bus or other vehicle owned, operated, or leased by a school;
  3. The real property or any building, public or private, that is the site of an official school-sanctioned function; or
  4. The real property or any building owned or leased by a government agency,and no person dies or receives any physical injury.
A weapon of mass destruction is used with lawful authority if it is used with the written permission of an agency of the Commonwealth or of a city, county, charter county, or urban-county government having jurisdiction over the use of destructive devices as defined in KRS 237.030 or the use of explosives.
Use of a weapon of mass destruction in the second degree is a Class B felony.

Effective: June 21, 2001

History: Created 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 113, sec. 5, effective June 21, 2001.

Except as provided in KRS 527.205, a person is guilty of use of a weapon of mass destruction in the third degree when intentionally, without lawful authority, he or she places a weapon of mass destruction at any location in the Commonwealth.
A weapon of mass destruction is used with lawful authority if it is used with the written permission of an agency of the Commonwealth or of a city, county, charter county, or urban-county government having jurisdiction over the use of destructive devices as defined in KRS 237.030 or the use of explosives.
Use of a weapon of mass destruction in the third degree is a Class C felony.

Effective: June 21, 2001

History: Created 2001 Ky. Acts ch. 113, sec. 6, effective June 21, 2001.

Kentucky Firearm Laws

Kentucky Constitution Section 1

TITLE IV - JUDICIAL BRANCH

CHAPTER 27A - Judicial Support Agencies And Personnel

§27A.092 - Administrative Office of the Courts to provide Department of Kentucky State Police with information on applicants for and holders of concealed deadly weapon license

TITLE V - MILITARY AFFAIRS

CHAPTER 36 - Department Of Military Affairs

TITLE IX - COUNTIES, CITIES, AND OTHER LOCAL UNITS

CHAPTER 65 - General Provisions Applicable To Counties, Cities, And Other Local Units

§65.870 - Local firearms control ordinances prohibited -- Exemption from immunity -- Declaratory and injunctive relief

TITLE XII - CONSERVATION AND STATE DEVELOPMENT

CHAPTER 150 - Fish And Wildlife Resources

§150.172 - Possession and use of firearm for self-defense and defense of others while hunting or trapping -- Exceptions -- Administrative regulations

§150.360 - Restrictions on taking of wildlife -- Discharge of weapon across public roadway prohibited

TITLE XIX - PUBLIC SAFETY AND MORALS

CHAPTER 237 - Firearms And Destructive Devices

§237.020 - Right of Kentucky residents, out-of-state residents, and residents of other countries to buy firearms

§237.025 - Requirements for local gun buy-back programs

§237.030 - Definitions for KRS 237.040 and 237.050

§237.040 - Criminal possession of destructive device or booby trap device

§237.050 - Exemptions

§237.060 - Definitions for KRS 237.060 to 237.090 and certain other sections

§237.070 - Prohibition against sale or transfer of firearm to convicted felon

§237.075 - (2014) Chief law enforcement officer's certification for transfer or making ofa firearm -- Immunity from liability -- Appeal of denial of certification request.

§237.080 - Prohibition against manufacture, sale, delivery, transfer, or importation of armor-piercing ammunition -- Exceptions

§237.090 - Disposition of forfeited firearm or ammunition

§237.095 - Persons barred by federal law from purchase of firearms -- Duty to notify courts and law enforcement agencies of purchase or attempt to purchase -- Protocol for providing notice -- Duty to notify petitioner -- Immunity from liability

§237.100 - ( 2015) Notification of purchase of firearm or attempt to purchase firearm -- Immunity

§237.102 - Suspension, revocation, limitation, or impairment of concealed deadly weapon license permitted only in accordance with KRS 237.110 and 237.138 to 237.142

§237.104 - Rights to acquire, carry, and use deadly weapons not to be impaired during disaster or emergency -- Seizure of deadly weapons during disaster or emergency prohibited -- Application of section

§237.106 - Right of employees and other persons to possess firearms in vehicle --Employer liable for denying right -- Exceptions

§237.109 - Authorization to carry concealed deadly weapons without a license.

Carrying Concealed Deadly Weapon

§237.110 - (2015) License to carry concealed deadly weapon -- Criteria -- Training -- Application -- Issuance and denial of licenses -- Automated listing of license holders -- Suspension or revocation -- Renewal -- Prohibitions -- Reciprocity -- Reports -- Requirements for training classes

§237.115 - (2019) Construction of KRS 237.110 -- Prohibition by local government units of carrying concealed deadly weapons in governmental buildings -- Restriction on criminal penalties

§237.120 - Program for firearms instructor trainers for concealed deadly weapon training program -- Qualification and certification requirements -- In-service training -- Fee

§237.122 - Program for certification of firearms instructors for concealed deadly weapon program -- Qualification and certification requirements -- In-service training -- Fees

§237.124 - Program for training applicants for concealed deadly weapon license

§237.126 - Misrepresentation of having conducted training courses

§237.128 - Providing incomplete firearms training

§237.130 - Failure to report nonreceipt of firearms training when receiving certification without notice to specified law enforcement or prosecutorial personnel

§237.132 - Failure to report insufficient firearms training when receiving certification without notice to specified law enforcement or prosecutorial personnel

§237.134 - Investigation and prosecution of reports made pursuant to KRS 237.130 or 237.132 -- Annual report to Legislative Research Commission

§237.136 - Suspension or revocation of certification or denial of recertification of firearms instructor trainer or certified firearms instructor

§237.137 - (2017) Concealed carry authority for off-duty and certified retired peace officers.

§237.138 - Application of KRS 237.138 to 237.142 to retired peace officers.

§237.140 - (2014) Certification for retired peace officer to carry concealed deadly weapon -- Requirements -- Firearms instruction

§237.142 - Availability of range facilities for retired peace officers

Shooting Ranges

§237.200 - Definitions for KRS 237.210 and 237.220

§237.210 - Effect of changed conditions on nuisance actions involving shooting ranges -- Standing to sue -- Limitation of liability -- Prohibition against retroactive application of laws

§237.220 - Retroactivity of KRS 237.200 and 237.210

Penalties

§237.990 - Penalties

TITLE XX - ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

CHAPTER 244 - Alcoholic Beverages -- Prohibitions, Restrictions, And Regulations

Alcoholic Beverages Generally

§244.125 - Prohibition against possession of loaded firearm in room where alcoholic beverages are being sold by the drink

TITLE XXXVI - STATUTORY ACTIONS AND LIMITATIONS

CHAPTER 411 - Rights Of Action And Survival Of Actions

§411.155 - Liability for damages resulting from criminal use of a firearm by another person

TITLE L - KENTUCKY PENAL CODE

CHAPTER 500 - General Provisions

§500.080 - Definitions for Kentucky Penal Code

CHAPTER 503 - General Principles Of Justification

§503.010 - Definitions for chapter

§503.020 - Justification -- A defense

§503.030 - Choice of evils

§503.040 - Execution of public duty

§503.050 - Use of physical force in self-protection -- Admissibility of evidence of prior acts of domestic violence and abuse

§503.055 - Use of defensive force regarding dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle --Exceptions

§503.060 - Improper use of physical force in self-protection

§503.070 - Protection of another

§503.080 - Protection of property

§503.085 - Justification and criminal and civil immunity for use of permitted force --Exceptions

§503.090 - Use of physical force in law enforcement

§503.100 - Prevention of a suicide or crime

§503.110 - Use of force by person with responsibility for care, discipline, or safety of others

§503.120 - Justification -- General provisions

CHAPTER 508 - Assault And Related Offenses