California has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, especially regarding concealed carry. In spite of this, the state does issue concealed carry permits (CCW). But concealed carry is forbidden in numerous locations, even for permit holders.
Breaking such prohibitions can have severe legal consequences, such as criminal charges, penalties, and suspension of a CCW permit.
Continue reading for more information about where concealed carry is prohibited.
Government Buildings
One of the primary locations where concealed carry is prohibited in California is government buildings at the federal, state, and local government levels. Government buildings that come into play are courthouse buildings, city halls, state capitol buildings, and other government buildings where official activities are performed.
In fact, most government buildings have explicit signs prohibiting firearms within. Security checks such as metal detectors and bag checks are usually used to enforce this prohibition.
Government officials and police officers are exempted from this prohibition under some circumstances, but for the general public it is prohibited to carry concealed weapons in such locations.
To fully understand these restrictions, it’s important to be familiar with California’s concealed carry laws and the penalties for violating them.
Schools and Universities
Firearms are prohibited under California law on school campuses, including K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.
The ban takes effect even during periods when classes are not being conducted or when the school is occupied for other activities. It includes public and private schools so that guns are not present within school premises where students and staff are likely to be vulnerable.
In addition, at the college and university levels, the majority of California colleges have concealed carry bans on campus. Some universities have some limitations, but only with explicit permission.
Even if the CCW permit holder is carrying their firearm legally off campus, they should be aware that bringing their weapon onto university premises can have serious legal ramifications.
Airports and Aircraft
Another location where concealed carry is not allowed in the state of California is in airports and on airplanes. Guns are not allowed in secure areas of airports, including
- The passenger screening checkpoints
- Boarding gates
- Baggage claim areas
- Terminals
Even for individuals with a CCW permit, this prohibition remains in effect.
While travelers are permitted to carry guns in their checked baggage if they meet federal Transportation Security Administration regulations, it is not legal to carry a gun within the airport’s boundaries.
Conclusion
The concealed carry laws of the state of California are some of the most restrictive in the country, and it is of the utmost priority for CCW permit holders to know where guns are not allowed. Government buildings, schools, airports, public transportation systems, bars, sporting arenas, and medical centers are but a few of the many places where concealed carry is not allowed.
Breaking such restrictions has severe legal consequences like criminal charges, huge fines, and suspension of CCW permits. Any individual who is armed in the state of California should know such laws to avoid legal issues and ensure legal gun possession.