Yes, Batons are legal in North Dakota for law enforcement, security personnel, and civilians with permits, but possession without authorization violates state statutes. The North Dakota Attorney General’s Office enforces N.D.C.C. § 62.1-02-04, which prohibits carrying concealed weapons, including batons, unless explicitly permitted. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to tighten restrictions on non-lethal impact weapons, requiring additional training for civilian carry permits.
Key Regulations for Baton in North Dakota
- Permit Requirement: Civilians must obtain a Concealed Weapon License (CWL) under N.D.C.C. § 62.1-04-03, which mandates background checks and firearms training—batons are not explicitly excluded but fall under “dangerous weapons.”
- Law Enforcement Exemption: Active-duty officers and licensed security guards (per N.D.C.C. § 43-28-04) may carry batons without additional permits, provided they comply with agency policies.
- Prohibited Use: Batons cannot be carried in restricted areas (e.g., courthouses, schools) under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-03-12, and brandishing them in a threatening manner may result in felony charges under N.D.C.C. § 12.1-08-02.
Local jurisdictions, such as Fargo and Bismarck, may impose further restrictions via municipal ordinances, requiring consultation with city attorneys for compliance. The 2026 North Dakota Legislative Assembly is reviewing HB 1456, which could reclassify batons as “restricted impact devices,” necessitating specialized certification for civilian possession.