“Good to Know”: Current Gun Laws in Florida

This story is one that many people don't like to talk about, but the information is helpful (if the need arises)!

I was watching a website hosted by “MGL” (Manasota Gun Lawyer) on YouTube that was both entertaining AND informative!

The man was discussing five basic things to know if you carry a firearm in your car or on your person.

This video would be a good idea to watch if you are unsure about the laws (regarding our gun laws in Florida). The title of the video is “The 5 Most Important Gun Laws in Florida”. The man gives descriptions of the laws ranging from #5 (lowest priority) to #1 most important laws regarding this topic.

His number 5 is: S.# Fl. 790.06. He states that Florida does NOT have a constitutional law on “carrying a firearm”. He says the closest law to this topic is the one that states it is a “carrying a firearm without a permit” law. He says you can still carry a concealed weapon, but you do not need the little card. One important point he makes is that YOU MUST BE ELIGIBLE (and MUST NOT be a felon).

Issue #4 is that WE do not have “open carry” in Florida! The law he cites here is “S-790.053”, and it is for ANY FIREARM OR ELECTRICAL DEVICE. I am not sure (exactly), but it seems they are referring to a type of tazer (self-defense) weapon. He says that 790.25(3) allows for carrying in places like hunting, sporting and shooting facilities, camping, and even fishing (whether going to or coming back from). He also says that many people throw a fishing pole in their vehicle to make it appear that they are in compliance with the fishing exemption. He says that this “ploy” may or may not work in all cases (and it largely depends on what the detention officer “thinks of your story!”)

(Point #3) is “S – 790.25(4)(a), The firearm MUST NOT be carried by a felon! It must not be readily accessible (such as under the seat of the car or on the dashboard). It must also be in a container that requires an “intermediate action” to access it. This could be a closed glove compartment (where the process requires pushing a latch.) The firearm can also be placed in a center console, where you have an opening procedure or a zippered holster (which IS in a closed mode)! You can also use a holster with a secure buttoned strap. He cited another statute (#790.001(14)(15) – which talks about the ability to load and chamber the weapon (in a safe mode).

(Point 2) S-776.012 – He talks about the very important law on self-defense. He says that there is a change in the law that if you are on a public sidewalk and you are there carrying out a legal activity (i.e. you are not selling drugs), if a dangerous situation arises, you do NOT have to turn around and run, you CAN defend your position!

(Point 1) He says this also falls under the statutory category “S-776.012.” That is, if you are compelled to defend someone facing imminent danger (or risk of death) or if there is a significant chance that you will have to prevent a serious crime (such as murder, rape, or carjacking).

Now, I am NOT a legal advisor and never intended (or claimed) to be. THIS IS JUST my opinion and should be taken as such! (Consider it useful entertainment!) So I would ask that you please watch this video or, better yet, read some information on the most recent laws and ordinances at

Carrying a gun shouldn't be a pleasant thing, because it comes with a lot of RESPONSIBILITIES! But I have to assume that if you've read this story, you already have some sense of decency and moral responsibility! (I just had to slip that in!)

Be safe and blessed everyone, until next time!

Steve Goodwin is a recently retired conservative Christian veteran (from the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division) who still believes that “duty to country” didn’t end when the military uniform was retired. He and his wife Cecelia live on the edge of a beautifully wooded lot just south of the Beltway and are not only involved in church activities, but also attend school board meetings and local community outreach events.