Florida’s Laws on Carrying Guns and Weapons
Florida has some of the most permissive gun laws in the country. Unlike many other states, you don’t need a permit to buy or own a gun in Florida. But there are still important laws around carrying and using guns that residents and visitors should understand.
Open Carry
Florida is not an open carry state – you can’t openly carry a gun in public here. The exceptions are if you have a license to carry a concealed weapon, or if you’re hunting, fishing, camping, or at a gun range. There was an attempt to pass open carry legislation in 2011, but it didn’t get enough support.
Concealed Carry Permits
To carry a concealed gun in Florida, you need a Concealed Weapon License (CWL) . Here are some key things to know:
- You must be 21 or older to get a CWL.
- There is a short training requirement – usually about 4 hours of firearms safety training at a licensed range.
- CWL holders can carry concealed handguns, electronic weapons or devices, and non-lethal self-defense weapons like stun guns.
- The license is valid for 7 years before needing to be renewed.
- Florida has reciprocity agreements with over 30 other states, meaning many out-of-state carry permits are valid here.
Where You Can and Can’t Carry
Even with a valid concealed carry permit, there are restrictions on where you can bring a gun:
- Courthouses, police stations, airports, mental health facilities, and many schools are off limits.
- Private property owners and businesses can prohibit weapons on their premises if they choose.
- You can keep a gun securely encased in your vehicle even in places you can’t carry it on your person.
There are also enhanced penalties for carrying concealed weapons while committing certain other crimes.
“Stand Your Ground” Self Defense Law
Florida’s controversial “Stand Your Ground” law says that citizens can use lethal force in self defense without needing to retreat first. This law has been hotly debated after it was used to justify shootings in high profile cases. Supporters say it protects law-abiding gun owners, while critics argue it encourages violence and makes situations more dangerous.
Bottom Line
Responsible gun ownership is allowed in Florida, but requires following the proper permitting and usage laws. Consider taking a safety course, learning where you can and can’t carry, and using good judgement if ever needing to use a weapon in self defense. Understanding the specifics of Florida’s concealed carry and self defense laws is important for staying on the right side of the law.
https://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/legislature/open-carry-of-firearms-bill-unlikely-to-pass-florida-legislature-this/2258116/
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0790/0790.html
https://www.findlaw.com/state/florida-law/florida-s-stand-your-ground-law.html