Florida has changed the way you can carry a firearm in public. A recent court ruling struck down the ban on open carry, making it legal for citizens to carry their firearm in plain view. But “legal” doesn’t mean “anything goes.” With new freedom comes new responsibility. If you open carry in Florida, you need to understand the rules, avoid mistakes, and train for the real-world risks.
What the Court Decided
The First District Court of Appeal ruled that Florida’s old ban on open carry violated the Second Amendment. That means the law that once made it a crime to carry a gun openly is no longer valid. From now on, open carry is treated as the default mode of bearing arms—unless you are somewhere the law specifically says guns are not allowed.
Where You Still Can’t Carry
Even though open carry is legal, there are important restrictions. Firearms are still banned in certain “sensitive places,” including:
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Courthouses and government buildings
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Jails and prisons
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Schools and school grounds
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Polling places during elections
Private businesses and property owners also have the right to forbid firearms on their premises. If a business posts a “no guns” sign or asks you to leave, you must comply.
Rules for Responsible Open Carry
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Train for it. Carrying a gun in the open makes you more visible and potentially more of a target. Weapon retention, situational awareness, and de-escalation are not optional—they are survival skills.
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Use the right holster. Your firearm must be in a secure holster that covers the trigger and prevents accidental discharge.
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Keep your ID with you. Law enforcement officers may ask to confirm your eligibility to carry. Always have your identification on hand.
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Don’t carry where it’s prohibited. “I didn’t know” is not a defense.
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Respect others. Open carry can make some people nervous. Stay calm, be professional, and avoid unnecessary arguments.
Interactions with Police
Law enforcement officers know the law changed, but reactions will differ from county to county. If approached:
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Keep your hands visible.
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Follow directions immediately.
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Stay polite—don’t argue constitutional law on the side of the road.
The way you handle the encounter can determine whether it ends smoothly or escalates into a problem.
What Comes Next
The ruling is fresh, and lawmakers may try to respond with new rules or clarifications. For now, it’s your responsibility to stay informed, check local guidance, and train beyond the minimum. Remember: freedom without discipline is a liability.
Final Word
Open carry in Florida is now legal—but legality is only the beginning. Safety, training, and responsibility define whether you’re part of the solution or part of the next news headline. If you choose to open carry, do it with professionalism, skill, and respect for the law.
👉 Train with professionals. Don’t just carry—be ready.
