The 2014, first quarter totals, per Ohio county show that new CCW permits and renewing CCW permits have not slowed down.  I simply looked up these statistics to check my facts and to see where the Ohio Concealed Carry Weapon permit numbers were for the most current date possible.  These facts are according to the, OAG.   I was not surprised to find that people were continuing to obtain their CCW permits but after reviewing the different counties, I was surprised about which counties had the highest CCW rates.  Before CCW permit responsibilities are discussed, take a look at some of the CCW numbers per county, keep in mind these numbers are quarterly:

• Brown County – 62 new permits, 50 renewal permits, 0 emergency permits

• Butler County – 521 new permits, 762 renewal permits, 2 emergency permits

• Clermont – 500 new permits, 757 renewal permits, 3 emergency permits

• Hamilton – 780 new permits, 582 renewal permits, 0 emergency permits

The smaller counties had number proportionate with the large counties.  What Found interesting that rural counties such as Brown and Clermont counties have increased CCW permit rates. 


This photo shows the issuance of CCW permits when the law was first passed in April, 2004.  Ammendants were just passed in 2014 however are not in manuals yet.

This rise in CCW permits has been steady over the last five years.  Whether you have your CCW or are wanting to obtain your CCW here are some Ohio CCW permit responsibilities to be considered and possibly only touched on in your CCW training class.  Three main points outlined here are; what to do during a traffic violation, where you can’t carry your CCW and most importantly the understanding of deadly force.

If you experience a traffic stop and you have your CCW permit the following actions should occur on your part.  First, keep your hands on the wheel in clear view, 10 and two is recommended.  Some instructors suggest you turn on your dome light however, I believe it best to leave your hands in plain sight and not move.  Second, and this is important, let the Officer know IMMEDIATELY that you have your CCW permit EVEN IF you are not carrying your CCW.  Immediately means, as soon as the Officer finishes his first sentence or question.  Some instructors state that you should tell the Officer immediately by interrupting their first instruction.  The following phrase is excellent to use and is used by many, “Officer, I want to let you know that I have a concealed carry permit in this state and currently have one on my person. How would you like me to proceed?”  If you are not carrying then simply let them know it is not on your person.  This phrase lets the Officer know you are responsible and respect and results in less issues to delay you. Finally, follow the Officer’s directions and move only when asked and do so slowly.  This may sound like you are “in the wrong” which is incorrect, it is just a part of Ohio CCW permit responsibilities.

Many people, especially women, and I admit this has happened to me, have forgotten that they have their CCW when entering certain buildings.  It is an honest mistake not only committed by women but it can be an honest mistake with a frightening outcome.  The following places do not permit CCWs:

• The obvious; Police and Sheriff Stations, Highway Patrol Posts, Bureau of Criminal Investigations, Correctional and Detention Facilities.

• Courthouses or any building that houses a courthouse

• Airport terminals and airplanes

• Facilities for the mentally ill

• University campuses, unless locked in a car or in the process of locking your CCW in your car

• Child care centers

• You may not carry your school within a school “safety zone;” anywhere within the outer boundary of the school unless, you are in the act of dropping off or picking up your child and remain in your car and do so in a quick manner

• Government Buildings

• Places of worship unless approved by place of worship

• You MAY carry your CCW as long as you do not consume alcohol, if you are in a bar or restaurant/bar

• And, you may not carry your CCW into any building that is marked “No Firearms permitted.”  Please note that this is a request by the building owners and not a written law.

As stated in the beginning it is easy to forget some of these guidelines, remembering the rules is also a part of Ohio CCW permit responsibilities. 

The last topic to consider when you are a CCW permit holder or are considering it is the “when.”  When are you in the right to use your CCW?  The standard guideline is this; In Ohio, in order to use deadly force you MUST be in fear of your life or someone else’s life.  You may not use deadly force to protect personal property only.  With this there lies many possible legal ramifications, civil liability problems could arise and exceptions to this rule.  It is advised if you are a CCW holder to have counsel on retainer.  This is the biggest of the Ohio CCW permit responsibilities. 

As you just read, having your CCW permit can be a big responsibility.  EK Agencies urges you to read the Ohio CCW Handbook that is free online before committing to getting your CCW.  If you have any questions in regards to liability coverage or specific CCW permit coverage feel free to contact Etler-Kettenacker Agency.

Coming up soon on EK Blogs, a series on bizarre claims and claims that involve multiple lines of coverage!