Open Carry of a Firearm in the State of California

[CitaDeL]

So much is made of the apparent illegality of firearms in the state, I wanted to spread the news. Having a firearm isnt as illegal as many (including well-meaning gunowners) would have you believe.

Here's the quick and the dirty-

Carry of an unloaded and exposed handgun is lawful without a license or permit anywhere except:

Where someone would reasonably know they were within 1000 feet of a school. (626.9)

In any State or local public building or at any meeting required to be open to the public (171b)

A State park (CCR Title 14, Div.3, chap. 1, s 4313 (a)) or National Park (36 C.F.R. 2.4(a))

Carry of a loaded and exposed handgun is lawful without a license or permit anywhere except:

In any public place or public street in an incorporated city (ie: inside city limits) or in any public place or on any public street in a prohibited area of unincorporated territory. (PC12031)

Where someone would reasonably know they were within 1000 feet of a school. (626.9)

In any State or local public building or at any meeting required to be open to the public (171b)

A State (CCR Title 14, Div.3, chap. 1, s 4313 (a)) or National Park (36 C.F.R. 2.4(a))

On a public road or highway. (374c, 12031 qualifies as ‘prohibited area’)

Any other area where local ordinance prohibits discharge of firearms

It is NOT lawful to conceal a pistol or handgun without a permit. (PC12025)

If you do not have a license to carry concealed or cannot get one-- this is how you can carry. Granted, someone doing this will probably be detained, but unless the police can substantiate a charge, you will likely be free to go. Before you say it cant be done- save it- it has and continues to be done.

I am not an attorney and this is not legal advice. For more information see OpenCarry.org

[ThomasRowbottom]

Also, If you are in the commision of making a lawful arrest you can carry a firearm. I do Fugitive Recovery work and that law comes in handy more times then not.