Where Can You Not Carry a Concealed Weapon in Florida?
Florida is known for its gun-friendly laws, allowing residents and visitors alike to carry concealed weapons legally. However, there are certain places and situations where carrying a concealed weapon is not permitted. In this article, we will explore the prohibited areas and situations where concealed carry is not allowed in Florida.
School Zones
One of the most significant restrictions on concealed carry in Florida is in school zones. Florida law prohibits carrying a concealed weapon on school property, including buses, buildings, and buildings adjacent to schools [1]. This includes schools, colleges, and universities, as well as buildings used for educational purposes. This restriction is in place to ensure the safety of students and staff.
| School Zones | Prohibited Area |
|---|---|
| Public and Private Schools | Buses, Buildings, and Adjacent Buildings |
| Colleges and Universities | Buildings and Adjacent Buildings |
| Buildings used for Educational Purposes | Buildings and Adjacent Buildings |
Public Buildings and Facilities
Another area where concealed carry is not permitted is in public buildings and facilities. Florida law prohibits carrying a concealed weapon in the following public buildings and facilities [2]:
• Courthouses and courtrooms
• Prisons and correctional facilities
• Polling stations and voting facilities
• Government buildings and offices
• Public libraries
• Museums and galleries
• Theater and concert halls
• Stadiums and arenas
| Public Buildings and Facilities | Prohibited Area |
|---|---|
| Courthouses and Courtrooms | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Prisons and Correctional Facilities | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Polling Stations and Voting Facilities | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Government Buildings and Offices | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Public Libraries | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Museums and Galleries | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Theater and Concert Halls | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Stadiums and Arenas | Building and Adjacent Areas |
Other Prohibited Areas
In addition to school zones and public buildings and facilities, there are other areas where concealed carry is not permitted in Florida. These include:
• Private property with posted signs
• Airports
• Seaports
• Public gatherings and events
• Parades and processions
• Rally and protest areas
• Sports stadiums and arenas
| Other Prohibited Areas | Prohibited Area |
|---|---|
| Private Property with Posted Signs | Building and Adjacent Areas |
| Airports | Terminal and Security Areas |
| Seaports | Terminal and Security Areas |
| Public Gatherings and Events | Entire Event Area |
| Parades and Processions | Entire Event Area |
| Rally and Protest Areas | Entire Event Area |
| Sports Stadiums and Arenas | Building and Adjacent Areas |
Violations and Penalties
It is essential to understand that carrying a concealed weapon in a prohibited area in Florida is a serious violation of the law. Carrying a concealed weapon in a prohibited area can result in criminal charges and penalties, including fines and imprisonment [3].
| Violations and Penalties | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Carrying a Concealed Weapon in a Prohibited Area | Up to 5 Years in Prison, $5,000 Fine |
In conclusion, while Florida has relatively lenient concealed carry laws, there are certain areas and situations where carrying a concealed weapon is not permitted. It is crucial to understand these prohibited areas and situations to ensure compliance with Florida law. Remember to always check local laws and regulations before carrying a concealed weapon, as laws can change and regulations may vary.
References:
[1] Florida Statute 790.115 – Carrying a concealed weapon on school property [2] Florida Statute 790.06 – Carrying concealed weapons [3] Florida Statute 790.115 – Carrying a concealed weapon on school property