Is it Legal to Carry a Gun in Florida?
Florida is known for its gun-friendly laws, but before you start packing heat, it’s essential to understand the legalities surrounding gun ownership and carry in the Sunshine State.
Is it Legal to Carry a Gun in Florida?
Yes, it is legal to carry a gun in Florida, but there are specific requirements and restrictions you must follow. The state has a constitutional right to bear arms, and the Florida Constitution Article I, Section 8(a) states that "every citizen of the United States, who has ever been a resident of the State of Florida for six months, may carry weapons, including firearms, concealed or openly, for the purpose of self-defense, hunting, or sport."
Concealed Carry Permit
To carry a gun in Florida, you must obtain a concealed carry permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). To qualify, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a resident of Florida for at least 6 months
- Not have been adjudicated mentally defective or have been committed to a mental institution
- Not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
- Not have been convicted of a crime punishable by more than 1 year in prison
- Not have been adjudicated guilty of a delinquent act that would be a felony if committed by an adult
- Not have been discharged from the Armed Forces under dishonorable conditions
- Not have been the subject of a restraining order or have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence
Permit Requirements
To apply for a concealed carry permit, you will need to:
- Submit an application to the FDACS
- Pay a $70 fee (renewal fee is $72)
- Provide proof of residency and identity
- Pass a background check
- Complete a firearms safety course (optional, but recommended)
Carry Restrictions
While Florida has relatively lenient gun laws, there are still some restrictions you should be aware of:
- Open Carry: You can carry a gun openly in Florida, but you must be 21 years old or older and not have any disqualifying convictions or adjudications.
- Concealed Carry: You can carry a gun concealed in Florida, but you must have a concealed carry permit.
- School Zones: You cannot carry a gun in school zones, which are defined as areas within 1,000 feet of a public or private school.
- Public Buildings: You cannot carry a gun in public buildings, such as courthouses, schools, and government offices.
- Federal Properties: You cannot carry a gun on federal properties, such as national parks, wildlife refuges, and military bases.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the concealed carry permit, you must also:
- Firearms Safety Course: You must complete a firearms safety course, which covers topics such as gun safety, handling, and storage.
- Gun Safety: You must demonstrate proficiency with a firearm, including loading, unloading, and firing.
- Storage: You must store your gun in a secure location, such as a gun safe or lockbox.
Penalties for Illegal Gun Carry
If you are caught carrying a gun illegally in Florida, you could face penalties, including:
- Fines: Up to $500
- Jail Time: Up to 1 year
- Loss of Permit: You could lose your concealed carry permit for a period of time or permanently
- Criminal Charges: You could face criminal charges, including a felony charge if you have a prior conviction
Conclusion
Carrying a gun in Florida is legal, but it’s essential to understand the requirements and restrictions. Make sure you obtain a concealed carry permit, follow the carry restrictions, and adhere to the additional requirements. Remember, gun ownership is a serious responsibility, and you must always prioritize gun safety and responsibility.
