Florida is known for being tourist- and gun-friendly, but visitors must abide by the same laws as residents do. Florida gun laws require a permit to carry handguns, but not rifles and shotguns. Possession of any firearm has carry restrictions.
Florida recognizes conceal carry permits from most other states, according to the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action. Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit can result in a penalty of up to five years in prison. Carrying any firearm openly is generally prohibited in most public places, but there are exceptions that might include areas of interest to tourists.
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Florida gun laws allow carrying firearms in situations that involve legal recreational activities, such as hunting, camping, fishing, or at a target range. Openly carrying weapons must be on private land or areas approved by the state’s wildlife and game officials. People are also allowed to have firearms in their home or place of business.
Despite the state’s lenient gun laws, firearms must remain securely encased or
not available to use when traveling in a vehicle, says HG.com. Even if a tourist has a permit from a state recognized by Florida, the weapon must be kept secured and not ready for use. For example, you can be arrested for keeping a handgun under the seat of a car without it being properly secured in a holster.
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Some private establishments and areas tourists might visit, such as
Disney World, do not allow the carrying of guns on their property, regardless of licensed permits. Tourists can be asked to leave when caught, but the establishment cannot press criminal charges for people who legally possess weapons. Florida gun laws strictly forbid firearms in such places as bars, lounges, and professional athletic events.
Since many tourists stay in hotels or resorts, those areas qualify as the person’s home. In that case, the same rules would usually apply for legally owned weapons. However, aside from Florida gun laws, establishments such as hotels have their own rules, so it would be best to check with the hotel or resort for rules regarding the presence or placement of firearms. Also, being on vacation, it’s a good idea to secure valuables, and that would include not leaving a gun in an empty room or unoccupied car.
This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws of your state and destination before travel.
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