CALIFORNIA · FIREARMS

Firearms

Q: Is firearms legal in California?

Firearms in California is restricted. Open carry: PROHIBITED statewide for handguns (loaded or unloaded) in public; long-gun open carry also banned in incorporated areas. Concealed: shall-issue permit post-Bruen, but with strict "sensitive places" list (SB 2).

Restricted

Summary

Open carry: PROHIBITED statewide for handguns (loaded or unloaded) in public; long-gun open carry also banned in incorporated areas. Concealed: shall-issue permit post-Bruen, but with strict "sensitive places" list (SB 2).

Notable

Magazine capacity capped at 10 rounds; no out-of-state carry permits recognized.

Penalties

Firearms is RESTRICTED in California — see exactly what you're risking: the penalties, the charges, and the exceptions that keep you legal.

Exceptions & nuances

Firearms is restricted in California, but narrow carve-outs exist. See the exemptions, edge cases, and conditions that actually apply.

Statute

Read the exact California statute that restricts firearms — citation and section so you can verify the source yourself.

Last updated: May 28, 2026

LawLert is informational only — not legal advice. Verify with a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.