Where Is It Illegal To Carry Your Firearm in Florida (2023)?

As of July 1, 2023, Florida has adjusted its firearm regulations, eliminating the mandatory requirement for a permit to carry a concealed firearm in public areas. While Floridians still have the option to apply for a concealed carry permit, the necessity for such a permit has been dissolved, allowing residents the liberty to carry a concealed firearm without one.

It's crucial to note, however, that this modification in the law does not imply an open license to carry firearms everywhere within the state. Florida maintains its list of locations where carrying a firearm is strictly prohibited. Let's delve into the specifics of where you can't carry your firearm in Florida, even in the post-permit era.

Places You Are Not Allowed to Bring a Firearm in Florida Based on State Law

Despite Florida’s new changes to its firearm regulations, there are still a multitude of places where an individual is not allowed to bring a firearm. Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a) reads as follows:

(12)(a) A license issued under this section does not authorize any person to openly carry a handgun or carry a concealed weapon or firearm into:

1. Any place of nuisance as defined in s. 823.05;
2. Any police, sheriff, or highway patrol station;
3. Any detention facility, prison, or jail;
4. Any courthouse;
5. Any courtroom, except that nothing in this section would preclude a judge from carrying a concealed weapon or determining who will carry a concealed weapon in his or her courtroom;
6. Any polling place;
7. Any meeting of the governing body of a county, public school district, municipality, or special district;
8. Any meeting of the Legislature or a committee thereof;
9. Any school, college, or professional athletic event not related to firearms;
10. Any elementary or secondary school facility or administration building;
11. Any career center;
12. Any portion of an establishment licensed to dispense alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises, which portion of the establishment is primarily devoted to such purpose;
13. Any college or university facility unless the licensee is a registered student, employee, or faculty member of such college or university and the weapon is a stun gun or nonlethal electric weapon or device designed solely for defensive purposes and the weapon does not fire a dart or projectile;
14. The inside of the passenger terminal and sterile area of any airport, provided that no person shall be prohibited from carrying any legal firearm into the terminal, which firearm is encased for shipment for purposes of checking such firearm as baggage to be lawfully transported on any aircraft; or
15. Any place where the carrying of firearms is prohibited by federal law.

Places Where You Are Federally Prohibited From Carrying a Firearm

In the United States, both federal and state laws dictate the carrying and possession of firearms. While Florida has relaxed its rules on concealed carry permits, it's important to remember that federal laws still apply and set forth restrictions on where firearms can be carried. These laws are uniform across all 50 states and serve as a baseline, upon which states can impose further restrictions as they see fit.

Federal laws specifically list certain places as off-limits for carrying a firearm. These laws aim to maintain the safety and security of certain public spaces and sensitive areas. Ignorance of these laws is not an excuse, and non-compliance can result in hefty fines, imprisonment, or both.

The following is a list of places where, under federal law, firearms are generally prohibited:

1. Federal Facilities: Any facility owned or leased by the federal government for the purpose of conducting government business is off-limits to firearms. This includes federal courthouses, social security offices, in federal buildings, or any building that houses federal employees.
2. Post Offices: All post offices are federal property, and firearms are not allowed on the premises, including the parking lot.
3. Schools: The Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990 prohibits unauthorized individuals from knowingly possessing a firearm at a place that the individual knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, is a school zone.
4. National Parks and Wildlife Refuges: While the law has changed to allow for some firearms possession in these areas, there are still restrictions and certain buildings within the parks where firearms are not allowed.
5. Military Bases: Most military installations do not allow firearms to be carried on base unless you are a member of the military police.
6. Airports/Commercial Airlines: Firearms are not allowed in the secure areas of airports. While you can transport a firearm in your checked baggage, there are rules and regulations around how to do this.
7. Federal Prisons and Other Correctional Facilities: Firearms are strictly prohibited in these facilities.
8. VA Facilities: Veterans Affairs facilities, including hospitals and clinics, generally do not allow firearms.

Navigating Charges for Carrying a Firearm in Prohibited Areas

If you're charged with carrying a firearm in a prohibited area, your first step should be to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. Here's why:

• Expertise: Attorneys are experts in firearm laws. They can assess your case, evaluate the evidence, and devise a robust defense strategy.
• Protection of Rights: Your attorney ensures that your rights are upheld throughout the legal process, protecting you from self-incrimination and ensuring fair treatment.
• Negotiations: Experienced attorneys can negotiate plea deals or potentially get charges reduced or dismissed.
• Mitigating Consequences: If convicted, consequences can range from fines to imprisonment. An attorney can help mitigate these outcomes.

If you find yourself facing gun charges, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help. At Aaron Delgado & Associates, we have a team of experienced criminal defense attorneys ready to assist you. We understand the gravity of the situation and the impact it can have on your life. Our team is well-versed in firearm laws and has a proven track record of assisting clients in similar circumstances.

Take advantage of our free consultation offer. During this initial meeting, we can discuss your case, answer any questions you may have, and outline potential defense strategies. Remember, our primary goal is to safeguard your rights and work towards the most favorable outcome possible. Don't navigate this challenging time alone - contact Aaron Delgado & Associates today.