Yes, butterfly knives (balisongs) are legal to own and carry in Kentucky as of 2024, with no state-level restrictions on blade length or concealed carry. Local jurisdictions, however, may impose additional ordinances, particularly in Louisville Metro and Lexington-Fayette County. The Kentucky State Police have not classified balisongs as prohibited weapons, aligning with federal standards under the Switchblade Knife Act. Recent legislative scrutiny in 2023-2024 focused on urban areas, but no statewide bans emerged. Always verify municipal codes before possession or transport.
Key Regulations for Butterfly Knives (Balisongs) in Kentucky
- No Statewide Prohibition: Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 527.020 does not list balisongs as illegal weapons, permitting ownership without blade length restrictions.
- Local Ordinance Variability: Louisville Metro Code § 150.102 and Lexington-Fayette County ordinances may impose restrictions on concealed carry or public display, requiring compliance checks.
- School and Government Property: KRS 527.070 prohibits carrying any knife on school grounds or in courthouses, including balisongs, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses.
Federal law under 15 U.S.C. § 1244 exempts balisongs from switchblade restrictions if the blade is manually opened, which Kentucky adheres to. Law enforcement agencies in Kentucky have not reported enforcement actions against balisong possession in residential or commercial settings. However, carrying during criminal activity or in restricted areas remains prosecutable under general weapons statutes. For commercial sales, dealers must comply with KRS 237.110 firearm dealer licensing, though balisongs are not classified as firearms.