Concealed Carry in Houston TX for a Colorado Resident

[jk2008]

All,

I have a family emergency that requires me to be in Houston, TX, as soon as possible. I'm have a Colorado-issued concealed carry license and would like to carry my pistol while I'm in the Houston. Last time I looked, Colorado and Texas had reciprocity, but Houston--being a large city--may have more restrictive laws.

Normally I'd do my own research, but things are chaotic here. Does anyone have any advice for me? Thank you in advance.

John

 

[bikemobile]

wiki/Gun_laws_in_Texas

 

[danez71]

According to handgunlaw.us, you're ok.

Both CO and TX are showing reciprocity with each other.

http://www.handgunlaw.us/states/texas.pdf

http://www.handgunlaw.us/states/colorado.pdf

 

[medalguy]

Just be sure it stays concealed and you're good to go.

 

[Rob G]

Texas has statewide firearms preemption laws. Basically that means that the laws are uniform across the state and Houston is not allowed to have "more restrictive" laws. I actually live on the edge of Houston and spend a fair amount of time in it. I've never had problems carrying in the city and the local LEOs don't seem any better or worse than they are in the rest of the state.

As noted we have reciprocity so you're okay there. You have to keep the weapon concealed but accidental exposure, such as a cover garment being briefly shifted, is not illegal. Technically you're required to inform an LEO about your permit/weapon if you're stopped, however there is no penalty for not telling them so it's really more of a voluntary thing.

Also be aware of the places you can't carry. We have the standard places, schools, church, hospitals, etc. You also can't carry in places that earn more than 51% of their revenue from alcohol. So basically you can carry in a restaurant that has a bar, but don't carry in a bar that happens to serve a little bit of food. Also a "no guns" sign means nothing here. In order for it to have the force of law a no gun sign has to meet the requirements of 30.06. Since you may not have time to look it up I'll give you a crash course on spotting one:

-Must be written in English and Spanish
-Letters must be block letters at least one inch high and in contrasting colors
-Must be posted in a conspicuous place
-Has to have very specific language that will include "30.06" (section of TX law) in it

Generally you'll find that TX, and even Houston, is very good on guns and you'll have no problems as long as you don't try to open carry.

 

[Flintknapper]

Also be aware of the places you can't carry. We have the standard places, schools, church, hospitals,

Churches and Hospitals MUST be posted with the correct 30.06 signage, you are correct about schools.