by Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells
As stated by Attorney General James Uthmeier on September 15, 2025, the Florida First District Court of Appeal has ruled that the state law prohibiting the open carry of firearms is unconstitutional. This ruling is effective immediately, making open carry legal in Florida.
However, while the ban on open carry has been lifted, there are still restrictions on where firearms can be openly carried. It is essential for everyone to follow these laws. In that spirit, we provide the following information on areas where the open carry of firearms remains unlawful.
The open (and concealed) carry of handguns is prohibited in sensitive areas, including:
- Board of County Commission meetings
- City Commission/Council meetings
- Courthouses
- Police stations and Sheriff's offices
- Bars (including bar areas of restaurants)
- Schools
Additionally, the open and concealed carry of firearms is prohibited at school-sponsored events and on the property of any school, school bus, or school bus stop, which includes institutions of higher education (colleges). Furthermore, individuals may not carry a firearm in a "rude or careless" manner.
It is important to note that if someone openly carries a firearm on property where it is prohibited by the owner, they may be subject to arrest for armed trespass, which is a felony under Florida law. Private property owners (such as grocery stores, retail stores, and restaurants) have the right to prohibit open or concealed carry of firearms on their premises. They do not need to provide prior written notice and may verbally ask a person carrying a firearm to leave. If a person refuses to leave after being asked to do so, they commit the felony crime of armed trespass.
We encourage everyone to respect property owners' rights, just as we support Second Amendment rights in public places. We ask that everyone please follow the law regarding the possession and carrying of firearms in Manatee County.
82officer
The police are not your friend.
Sunday, September 21, 2025 Report this
PeggyHay
What about hospitals?
Sunday, September 21, 2025 Report this
pattybeenutty
And how many other people will be killed with this open carry Second Amendment!
Monday, September 22, 2025 Report this