Previously, Californians had the right to carry concealed weapons if they had a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) license. The local agencies had broad discretion in issuing CCW licenses, with each application requiring a "good cause" to qualify for these permits.
In January 2024, a new law signed by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom came into effect. It prohibits Californians from carrying concealed guns in many public spaces, including amusement parks, museums, and public parks. The courts have blocked parts of the law, and on September 6, 2024, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals let most of the banned-places list take effect.
With the involvement of different courts, there have been a lot of changes happening in the legal landscape. Californians need to stay up-to-date with the latest gun laws so that they can avoid trouble with the local authorities.
Goss Law and Sacramento gun crime lawyer Blair Goss represent people charged with gun offenses and can help navigate the offenses and legal process.
Those facing criminal charges due to a gun law violation in Sacramento, California, can contact Goss Law to discuss their case and learn more about their rights. Goss Law can also answer questions like Can a DWI hurt your gun rights in California?
Where Can Californians Carry Guns in Public in California?
When the new concealed weapons law in California went into effect on January 1, 2024, there was a lot of confusion over whether or not people with concealed carry permits could carry guns in public.
Under the law signed by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, there are 26 different places that are considered sensitive places where Californians cannot carry guns even if they have concealed carry permits. These include playgrounds, amusement parks, and museums, among others.
While a ban against carrying guns in sensitive places might seem like a good move, it caused outrage among Californians, as the 26 different places mentioned under the law essentially cover most of the public spots. This makes it extremely difficult for anyone to carry a gun anywhere, even if they hold a valid license.
Is the New California Gun Law in Effect?
Most of it is. In December 2023, a federal district court blocked much of the law in lawsuits brought by gun rights groups, including the California Rifle and Pistol Association. On September 6, 2024, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals let most of the banned places take effect while keeping others on hold.
As of the September 6, 2024 ruling, CCW holders may not carry in these places, or in the parking areas connected to them:
- Parks, including state parks, and playgrounds
- Bars and restaurants that serve alcohol
- Casinos
- Stadiums and arenas
- Libraries
- Zoos
- Museums
The bans on these places remained on hold, so CCW holders could still carry there (along with connected parking areas):
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Places of worship
- Public transit
- Gatherings that require a permit
- Private property open to the public where the owner has not posted a sign either way (the "private-property default rule")
In June 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a similar Hawaii private-property default rule in Wolford v. Lopez. These cases are still moving through the courts, so check for further rulings before relying on this list.
Why Was There a Need for New Gun Laws in California?
In June 2022, the US Supreme Court concluded the New York State Rifle & Pistol Association, Inc. v. Bruen case, stating that the New York law was unconstitutional and everyone had the right to bear arms under the constitution. The apex court mentioned that the state has the right to enforce "permitting," and its laws must resemble the gun regulations during the 17- and 1800s.
Due to the US Supreme Court's decision, many people filed lawsuits involving federal and state gun regulations. States also had to revisit their old gun laws to ensure that they followed the recent guidelines set by the apex court.
What Argument Is the State Presenting Against the Right to Bear Arms?
In California, most legal experts believe that it is a blatant violation of the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, and gun rights groups may succeed in proving that.
On the other hand, there is a group of people and government officers who believe the new gun law is a step in the right direction.
According to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, the district court's dangerous ruling to block the law could lead to an increase in gun violence and endanger the citizens, especially in public places where families and children gather.
What Are the Other Recent Gun Laws in California?
Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has made gun safety regulation a key focus of his political campaign. Previously, Newsom supported background checks for purchasing ammunition while backing legislation that restricted the use of high-capacity magazines and various assault rifles.
In 2023, Newsom signed more than 20 gun safety laws. Some of them raise the age limit of carrying a firearm in public to 21 years, while others place an excise tax on retail sales of guns and ammunition and increase the training period required before receiving CCW licenses.
Legal Consequences of Violating the Concealed Firearm Law
While Californians may carry a concealed weapon if they have the necessary permit, the confusion around the recent gun laws and the current court battle can cause an error in one's judgment in regard to the existing regulations.
Violating the concealed firearm law can lead to serious legal and financial repercussions depending on the offense charged. If the violation leads to a misdemeanor, the consequences may include up to a year in jail, a maximum fine of $1,000, and summary probation.
However, if the justice system charges the crime as a felony, the defendant may have to pay a maximum fine of $10,000, spend up to three years in prison, and receive formal probation.
Due to the confusion regarding the law, someone might be violating it without realizing it. If they end up in trouble, it's important for them to reach out to a criminal defense attorney for legal representation.
Criminal Defendants Should Reach Out to a Gun Crime Lawyer in California!
Those facing criminal charges regarding gun law violation in Sacramento, California, should call to schedule a free consultation with attorney Blair Goss at Goss Law. He can assess the facts surrounding the case, build a strong defense, and fight to have the sentence reduced!
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This post is general information about California law, not legal advice about your situation. Laws change, and every case is different. For advice about your case, talk to a lawyer.