Illinois Knife Laws 2025 Updated

Introduction:

Understanding the legal framework surrounding the possession and carrying of knives is of paramount importance for a wide array of individuals in Illinois, ranging from everyday citizens and outdoor enthusiasts to law enforcement personnel and legal professionals. The state’s regulations, however, present a complex landscape due to the intricate interplay between statewide statutes and the varying ordinances enacted by local municipalities. This report aims to provide a comprehensive and expert-level analysis of Illinois knife laws, dissecting the definitions of legal and illegal knives, outlining the restrictions on carrying them both openly and concealed, identifying specific locations where carrying knives is prohibited, detailing the penalties for violations, examining recent legislative changes, exploring local regulations within major cities and counties, pointing to resources that offer plain language explanations, and finally, laying the groundwork for a future comparison with the laws of neighboring states. The primary legal foundation for knife regulations in Illinois rests upon 720 ILCS 5/24-1, also known as the Unlawful Use of Weapons statute, alongside related statutes such as 720 ILCS 5/21-6, which addresses the Unauthorized Possession or Storage of Weapons, and 720 ILCS 5/33A-1, which provides definitions pertinent to Armed Violence. Navigating these regulations requires a thorough understanding of their specific provisions and how they are interpreted and enforced across the state.

Definitions of Legal and Illegal Knives in Illinois:

Statewide Prohibitions:

Illinois law explicitly prohibits the sale, manufacture, purchase, possession, or carrying of certain categories of knives throughout the state. These prohibitions primarily target ballistic knives and throwing stars, which are viewed as particularly dangerous. Ballistic knives, defined as devices that can propel a detachable blade by a spring-operated mechanism, are seen as a significant threat due to their capacity to launch a blade as a projectile. Similarly, throwing stars, characterized as star-shaped weapons with multiple sharp edges designed for throwing, are also outlawed. Possession of either of these prohibited knife types can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge.

Switchblade knives, also known as automatic knives, face a conditional prohibition. Illinois law defines a switchblade knife as any knife with a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring, or other device located in the handle.² This definition extends to out-the-front (OTF) knives, where the blade springs directly from the front of the handle. Owning or carrying a switchblade knife is illegal unless the individual is over the age of 21 and holds a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. This regulation reflects concerns about the rapid deployment mechanism of these knives and their potential for misuse.

Blade Length Restrictions:

While Illinois does not impose a strict statewide limit on the blade length of knives that can be owned, the length of a knife blade becomes a significant factor when considering regulations related to carrying knives, particularly in public spaces and government-owned areas. Knives with blades exceeding 3 inches are subject to more stringent regulations. Carrying a knife with a blade longer than this threshold on public property may be construed as carrying a dangerous weapon, potentially leading to increased scrutiny from law enforcement. Depending on the specific circumstances and the intent of the individual, carrying a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches in public can result in either a misdemeanor or a felony charge. Law enforcement officers are expected to consider both the location where the knife is being carried and the reason for carrying it when making enforcement decisions.

Automatic Knives:

As previously mentioned, automatic knives, or switchblades, are illegal in Illinois unless the owner meets specific criteria. To legally own and carry these knives, an individual must be over 21 and possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. This requirement was established in August 2017, marking a change in the state’s stance on these knives for FOID cardholders. Out-the-front (OTF) knives, a type of automatic knife whose blade extends directly from the front of the handle, are also classified as switchblades under Illinois law and are subject to the same regulations regarding FOID card possession.

Other Potentially Restricted Knives:

While ballistic knives, throwing stars, and switchblades (without a FOID card) are explicitly restricted, the legal status of other types of knives, such as daggers, dirks, stilettos, and “dangerous knives,” is more nuanced. Owning these types of knives is not inherently illegal. However, carrying them with the intent to use them unlawfully against another person is prohibited under Illinois law and can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge. The state statute does not provide explicit definitions for these terms, leaving their interpretation often to the context of possession and the carrier’s intent, based on common understanding as weapons designed to inflict injury.

Billy clubs and blackjacks are generally illegal to possess in Illinois. While the state law does not explicitly define a billy club, some local ordinances describe it as a short stick or club commonly carried by police officers, which can be either telescopic or made of a solid piece of wood or other material. The prohibition of these items reflects their primary design as striking weapons intended for use in inflicting harm.

Restrictions on Carrying Knives in Illinois:

Open Carry Regulations:

In Illinois, the open carry of most types of knives is generally considered legal, provided that the individual carrying the knife does not intend to use it unlawfully and is not in a location where knives are prohibited. However, this legality is contingent on the individual not appearing threatening or menacing while carrying the knife. Law enforcement may pay closer attention to individuals openly carrying knives with blades longer than 3 inches on public property, as such knives could be perceived as dangerous weapons, especially if the carrier’s behavior appears suspicious or agitated.

Concealed Carry Regulations:

The regulations surrounding the concealed carry of knives in Illinois differ based on the blade length. Concealing a knife with a blade of 3 inches or longer can be considered a violation of the law unless the individual has a valid justification for doing so, such as a work requirement. Concealing a knife with a blade exceeding this length without proper justification can lead to legal repercussions. Conversely, the concealed carry of knives with blades shorter than 3 inches is generally permissible under Illinois law.

The Significance of Intent:

A central theme in Illinois knife laws is the intent of the person possessing or carrying the knife. The legality of possessing and carrying many types of knives is often determined by whether the individual intends to use the knife for an unlawful purpose. Brandishing or threatening another person with any knife, even if the knife is otherwise legal to own and carry, is considered unlawful use and can result in criminal charges. Specifically, carrying or possessing knives such as daggers, dirks, and stilettos with the intent to use them unlawfully against another individual is illegal. Law enforcement officers may take into account the demeanor and behavior of the individual when assessing their intent. While self-defense is a recognized legal defense, admitting to law enforcement that a knife is being carried for self-defense purposes can be legally complicated, and it is often advised to state that the knife is being carried as a tool.

Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card:

The Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card plays a specific role in Illinois knife laws, primarily concerning the ownership and carry of switchblade or automatic knives. For individuals over the age of 21, possession of a valid FOID card serves as an exception to the general prohibition against switchblade knives under 720 ILCS 5/24-1, allowing FOID cardholders to legally own and carry these knives.

Specific Locations Where Carrying Knives is Prohibited:

Schools and Educational Institutions:

Illinois law maintains a strict stance against the presence of weapons, including knives, on school grounds. Some interpretations suggest that this prohibition extends to all knives, including small pocket knives, with no exceptions. This prohibition applies to any school-sponsored activity or event as well. Carrying a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches in a school can result in a Class A misdemeanor charge. Furthermore, violations of knife laws within school zones are subject to enhanced penalties under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(c), potentially leading to Class 2 or Class 4 felony charges depending on the specific offense. University properties also generally prohibit the possession of weapons, including knives with blades over 3 inches, without obtaining prior written permission from the Chief Security Officer, as stipulated by 720 ILCS 5/21-6.

Government Buildings and Courthouses:

Carrying knives in government buildings and courthouses is also heavily restricted in Illinois. Possessing a knife with a blade longer than 3 inches in either of these locations can lead to a Class A misdemeanor. These locations are generally listed as prohibited areas for carrying knives. This prohibition extends to any building occupied by a unit of government, as per 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(13). Violations occurring in courthouses are subject to enhanced penalties under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(c). Additionally, specific local regulations may impose even stricter rules, such as the prohibition of knives of any size in Cook County courthouses  and Lake County courthouses.

Public Transportation Facilities:

The carrying of weapons, including knives, is generally prohibited on public transportation conveyances and within public transportation facilities in Illinois. This includes any conveyance owned, leased, or contracted by a public transportation agency. Violations of these prohibitions on public transportation conveyances are also subject to enhanced penalties under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(c).

Establishments Serving Alcohol:

Illinois law prohibits the carrying or possession of any firearm, stun gun, taser, or other deadly weapon in any place that is licensed to sell intoxicating beverages, as outlined in 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(8). This prohibition also extends to any public gathering held pursuant to a license issued by a governmental body or any public gathering at which an admission fee is charged. Some regulations specify establishments that derive more than 50% of their income from the sale of alcohol as prohibited locations.

Public Parks and Other Publicly Funded Areas (720 ILCS 5/21-6):

The Unauthorized Possession or Storage of Weapons statute, 720 ILCS 5/21-6, prohibits the possession or storage of any weapon enumerated in Section 33A-1 (which includes knives with a blade of at least 3 inches) in any building or on land supported in whole or in part with public funds without prior written permission from the chief security officer for such land or building. Violation of this statute is a Class A misdemeanor. Additionally, enhanced penalties apply for violations of certain subsections of the Unlawful Use of Weapons statute in public parks under 720 ILCS 5/24-1(c).

1000-Foot Zones Around Prohibited Locations:

Illinois law further extends the reach of prohibited locations by imposing enhanced penalties for violations of certain subsections of 720 ILCS 5/24-1 within 1000 feet of the real property comprising any school, public park, courthouse, public transportation facility, or residential property owned, operated, or managed by a public housing agency or leased as part of a scattered site or mixed-income development.

Exceptions to Prohibited Locations (Law Enforcement, etc.):

There are specific exceptions to the prohibitions on carrying knives in certain locations. Law enforcement officers and security officers of schools, colleges, or universities are typically exempt from restrictions on school property. Students who are carrying or possessing firearms for use in training courses, parades, hunting, target shooting on school ranges, or otherwise with the consent of school authorities may also be exempt, provided that the firearms are transported unloaded and enclosed in a suitable case, box, or transportation package. Generally, law enforcement personnel and members of the military are often exempt from many of the restrictions placed on the general public.

Penalties and Legal Consequences for Violating Illinois Knife Laws:

Class A Misdemeanor Penalties:

Several violations of Illinois knife laws are classified as Class A misdemeanors. These include the possession of illegal knives such as ballistic knives or switchblades by individuals who do not meet the FOID card requirement. Additionally, carrying certain knives like daggers, dirks, stilettos, or other dangerous knives with the intent to use them unlawfully against another person is also a Class A misdemeanor. Furthermore, the unauthorized possession or storage of weapons, including knives with blades of 3 inches or more, in publicly funded areas without prior written permission, as per 720 ILCS 5/21-6, is also a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties for a Class A misdemeanor in Illinois can include up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.

Felony Charges:

More severe violations of Illinois knife laws can result in felony charges. Unlawful use of a weapon in specific prohibited locations such as schools, public parks, and courthouses can be classified as a Class 4 felony for violations of 24-1(a)(1), (a)(2), or (a)(3). The penalties for a Class 4 felony include a prison sentence of 1 to 3 years and/or fines up to $25,000. Violations of 24-1(a)(4), (a)(9), or (a)(10) in these same prohibited locations are classified as a Class 3 felony, while violations of 24-1(a)(6) or (a)(7) in these locations are Class 2 felonies. Felony charges can also arise in other circumstances, such as carrying knives with unlawful intent or through multiple violations of knife laws. In particularly severe cases involving firearms under the Unlawful Use of Weapons statute, charges can even escalate to a Class X felony.

Enhanced Penalties in Specific Prohibited Zones:

Illinois law imposes enhanced penalties for violations of knife laws that occur in specific prohibited zones, highlighting the state’s concern for safety in these areas. These zones include schools, public housing properties, public parks, courthouses, and public transportation facilities, where the potential for harm or disruption is considered greater. For example, carrying a ballistic knife while wearing a mask is a Class 4 felony for the first offense, and a Class 3 felony for any subsequent offense. This specific enhancement underscores the perceived threat associated with masked individuals possessing such dangerous weapons.

Recent Legislative Changes and Updates to Illinois Knife Laws:

The most notable recent legislative change to Illinois knife laws occurred with the enactment of Public Act 100-0082 in August 2017. This amendment legalized the possession and carry of switchblade or automatic knives for individuals who are 21 years of age or older and possess a valid Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card. Prior to this change, the state law had an outright prohibition on these types of knives. However, even with this state-level amendment, it is important to note that local laws, such as those in the city of Chicago, may still maintain stricter restrictions on switchblades, meaning that possessing or carrying them within those jurisdictions might still be prohibited or subject to additional regulations.

Local Ordinances and Regulations in Major Illinois Cities or Counties:

Several major cities and counties within Illinois have enacted their own ordinances and regulations concerning knives, which can be more restrictive than the state law.

Chicago, for instance, has some of the strictest knife laws in the state. The city imposes a blade length limit of 2.5 inches for carrying knives on public property, whether openly or concealed. This reflects a greater emphasis on public safety in a densely populated urban environment. Chicago also prohibits the possession of knuckle knives and knives equipped with finger rings. Like the state law, all automatic knives are illegal in Chicago unless the owner possesses a valid FOID card.

Other major cities and counties, such as Aurora, Cook County, and Joliet, are also noted as having their own specific knife ordinances, although the specific details of these regulations are not readily available within the provided snippets and would require further research.

Beyond these major urban centers, smaller municipalities also have their own regulations. In Wheeling, for example, the local ordinance prohibits the carrying of concealed knives and any knives with blades that open automatically. It also restricts the sale of knives with blades 3 inches or longer to individuals under 18 and prohibits those under 18 from possessing such knives. The village of Fox Lake prohibits switchblade knives and the carrying of dangerous knives with the intent to use them unlawfully. In Maryville, the local ordinance largely mirrors the state law concerning prohibited knives and the unlawful use of weapons. Lockport prohibits switchblade and ballistic knives, as well as any knife with a blade longer than 6 inches when the blade is extended. The village of Romeoville also prohibits the possession of switchblade and ballistic knives. Even historical ordinances can provide insight into local attitudes towards concealed weapons, as seen in the 1912 ordinance from the village of Hinsdale, which made it unlawful to carry concealed weapons such as pistols, colts, slung shots, metal knuckles, bowie knives, dirks, daggers, or other dangerous or deadly weapons.

Comparison of Illinois Knife Laws with Neighboring States:

Further research is required to provide a detailed comparison of Illinois knife laws with those of its neighboring states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan. This section will be elaborated upon with information regarding prohibited knife types, blade length restrictions for carry (both open and concealed), specific location restrictions, and the penalties for violations in each of these states. The analysis will highlight any significant differences or similarities compared to the regulations in Illinois.

Conclusion:

Illinois knife laws represent a complex interplay of state statutes and local ordinances, requiring careful attention to detail for individuals wishing to remain compliant. The state explicitly prohibits ballistic knives and throwing stars, while switchblade or automatic knives are legal only under specific conditions involving FOID card possession for those over 21. Blade length plays a crucial role in carry regulations, with knives exceeding 3 inches facing increased scrutiny, particularly in public and government areas. A central tenet of Illinois knife law is the intent of the individual carrying the knife, with unlawful intent leading to potential criminal charges even for otherwise legal knives. The FOID card requirement for automatic knives is a unique aspect of the state’s regulatory framework.

Furthermore, Illinois has a wide array of locations where carrying knives is prohibited, including schools, government buildings, courthouses, public transportation facilities, and establishments serving alcohol, often with enhanced penalties for violations occurring in these sensitive areas. The broad prohibition on possessing or storing weapons in publicly funded areas without written permission adds another layer of complexity. The absence of statewide preemption allows local municipalities, such as the city of Chicago, to enact stricter regulations, as seen in their lower blade length limit for carrying knives.

To ensure compliance with Illinois knife laws, it is essential for individuals to stay informed about both the state statutes and any local ordinances that may apply in their specific area. Consulting official legal resources or seeking advice from legal counsel is recommended, especially when dealing with intent-based laws or navigating the intricacies of local regulations. A clear understanding of these regulations is paramount to avoid inadvertent violations and the potential legal consequences that can arise from them.