Lesson 7.3: Courthouses, State Buildings, and Public Facilities
Purpose of This Lesson
Not every government building follows the same rule.
Courthouses, Capitol Area state buildings, federal facilities, schools, and secured areas may all have different restrictions.
Courthouse Complexes
Under Minnesota Statute 609.66, subdivision 1g, a person generally commits a felony by possessing a dangerous weapon, ammunition, or explosives within a courthouse complex unless an exception applies.
Permit holders must understand whether sheriff notification, express sheriff consent, or another clear statutory exception applies before carrying in a courthouse complex.
A courthouse is not the place to guess.
State Buildings in the Capitol Area
Minnesota Statute 609.66, subdivision 1g, also applies to certain state buildings within the Capitol Area, other than the National Guard Armory.
The statute includes an exception for permit holders who notify the commissioner of public safety.
For this purpose, issuance of a Minnesota Permit to Carry constitutes notification to the commissioner of public safety.
Other Public Facilities
Not every public building is automatically restricted, but special rules may apply.
Federal offices, schools, courtrooms, detention areas, secured areas, and temporary school controlled spaces may have separate restrictions.
Security screening, posted instructions, and lawful commands still matter.
Davey Defense Standard
At Davey Defense, students are taught to verify before entering public buildings.
If you are not certain, do not carry inside until you know the rule.