Under Section 265.01-d of the New York Penal Code, a person is guilty of criminal possession of a weapon in a restricted location when such person possesses a firearm, rifle, or shotgun and enters or remains on private property where they know, or reasonably should know, that possession is not permitted.
In New York, carrying on private property is prohibited by default unless the owner has explicitly authorized it through clear and conspicuous signage stating that carrying is permitted, or by otherwise giving express consent.
This provision does not apply to:
- Police officers, peace officers, and qualified retired law enforcement.
- Registered armed security guards (during work hours) and active-duty military.
- Persons licensed for certain official duties or Metropolitan Transportation Authority revenue/security personnel.
- Individuals lawfully engaged in hunting with the proper Department of Environmental Conservation permits.
Criminal possession of a weapon in a restricted location is a class E felony.
Posting Requirements
Private property owners in New York who wish to allow customers to carry firearms on their premises can display this poster to satisfy the “clear and conspicuous signage” requirement under state law.
