Business Policies and Procedures Manual
Chapter 50: Safety and Security

Firearms Authorization

BPPM 50.60

For more information contact:
   WSU Police Department, Pullman Campus 
   police@wsu.edu / 509-335-8548

1.0   Overview and Purpose

WSU prohibits the possession and use of firearms and dangerous weapons on WSU property, except for:

  • Law enforcement;
  • Authorized University purposes; or
  • Lawful possession in privately-owned vehicles (other than students).

WAC 504-31-020(5), WAC 504-26-213

The Chief of Police, or the President or designee, also may authorize an individual to possess or use a firearm on WSU property. This policy sets forth the criteria and process for such authorization.

2.0   Applicability

This policy applies to all requests for authorization to possess or use a firearm or dangerous weapon on WSU owned or leased property systemwide.

3.0   Definitions

The term “firearms or dangerous weapons” includes all types of firearms, explosives, airsoft guns, tasers, and similar weapons. WAC 504-26-213.

The term “Chief of Police” is the Chief of Police of the WSU Pullman campus.

4.0   Criteria and Process

4.1   Contents of Request

Individuals requesting permission to carry a firearm on any WSU campus or location must submit a written request to the Chief of Police demonstrating the following:

  • The requester has a legitimate, individual safety, security, or professional need that overrides WSU’s public safety interest in prohibiting possession or use of firearms or dangerous weapons on its property;
  • The requester has a valid, current concealed pistol license (CPL) issued by the state of Washington or by a state with Washington reciprocity, unless the requester is a peace officer who is authorized to carry a firearm without a CPL;
  • The make, model, and caliber of the firearm;
  • How the firearm will be carried;
  • A description of the requester’s training and experience with firearms and with the specific firearm to be carried; and
  • Any additional information required by the WSU Chief of Police.

4.2   Background Check and Interview

The Chief of Police conducts a criminal background check and personal interview of all requesters and may require additional information. Requesters may be required to complete a background check authorization form or other documentation to facilitate this process.

4.3   Authorization or Denial

 4.3.a    Determination

The Chief of Police grants or denies the request in writing within 30 days of receiving all information related to the request. The Chief of Police has authority to deny a request for any reason. The decision letter includes the basis for granting or denying the request.

Prior to issuing the decision letter, the Chief of Police consults with the campus chancellor or designee and, for campuses and locations other than Pullman, the director of public safety or equivalent for that campus or location. The campus chancellor or designee and the director of public safety or equivalent is copied on the decision letter.

4.3.b    Authorization Restrictions and Limitation

All authorizations are subject to the restrictions and limitations in Section 5.0, which are set forth in the decision letter.

4.3.c    Routing

The Chief of Police provides a copy of the decision letter to the applicable office of campus safety (for non-Pullman locations), Human Resource Services (HRS), and other WSU units and officials, as applicable.

4.4   Appeals

Denials may be appealed in accordance with Section 6.0.

5.0   Restrictions and Limitations

The following restrictions and limitations apply to all authorizations granted under this policy:

  • Authorizations are granted for a maximum of one semester (or semester plus summer, if applicable). Renewal for an additional year requires a new request in accordance with Section 4.0.
  • The Chief of Police, or the President or designee, may revoke the authorization at any time for any reason without prior notice. When possible, the reason for the revocation is provided in writing. The Chief of Police provides a copy of the notice to the director of campus safety or equivalent and the campus chancellor or designee for any relevant campus or location.
  • Authorized individuals must immediately notify the Chief of Police if they become ineligible for authorization due to expiration or revocation of the concealed pistol license, criminal conviction, or other circumstance.
  • Except for law enforcement purposes, firearms and dangerous weapons are prohibited in the following areas:
    • Spectator events, including intercollegiate athletic events
    • Residence halls
    • Events where alcohol is served
    • Childcare or K-12 facilities, or other places where minors are present
    • Classrooms
    • Research laboratories
    • Other areas as prohibited by state or federal law

6.0   Appeals

When a request is denied or revoked, the written decision or notice of revocation provides information regarding how to appeal and the timeframe for appeal, which is 30 days from the date of the issuance of the decision or notice.

The Executive Vice President of Finance and Administration or designee reviews the appeal and issues a final decision within 30 days of receipt.

7.0   Related Policies

WAC 504-31-020(5) (Prohibited conduct)

WAC 504-26-213 (Firearms and dangerous weapons)

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Revisions:  Dec. 2023 – new policy (Rev. 620)