Matthew Mincone | February 5, 2026 | Florida Law
It makes sense to wonder about how Florida’s gun laws work as of 2026, considering how much has changed and continues to evolve. For instance, the state now allows for permitless carry where it did not previously. Despite this major change, however, there are still various restrictions and responsibilities to keep in mind.
Violations of these rules can lead to consequences on both the criminal and civil sides of the law, so it’s important to know what is and isn’t legal. Continue reading for more information about firearms under state law, including when a personal injury lawyer can help you take action.
Permitless Carry Under Florida Law
As of July 1, 2023, with the passage of HB 543, Florida now allows permitless carry. This allows certain eligible individuals to carry a concealed weapon without a license.
However, this does not change certain other aspects of owning a firearm. Several critical rules still apply, which include:
- You must be 21 years of age or older to possess a firearm.
- The firearm must remain concealed, which means open carry is still illegal.
- You cannot carry a firearm in restricted areas, like schools and government buildings.
- Certain individuals still cannot own a firearm, such as convicted felons.
Note that Florida still offers concealed carry licenses through its Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This may still be useful in some circumstances.
Florida’s Stand Your Ground Law
Florida Statute § 776.013 covers the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law. This section allows individuals to use deadly force in self-defense (without a duty to retreat) if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily harm.
This law provides substantial legal protection for people who own firearms. However, it does not grant immunity in every single circumstance. A self-defense claim must be supported by evidence, for instance, and the improper use of this law can lead to serious criminal charges.
In some instances, a personal injury claim may also arise if the use of a firearm is deemed negligent. If you’re in doubt, asking a lawyer for legal advice before an incident takes place is one of the best steps you can take.
Firearm Possession and Related Laws in Florida
Florida law sometimes distinguishes between possessing and transporting a gun. For example, if you’re traveling, the firearm must be “securely encased and not in the person’s manual possession.”
Certain kinds of weapons, like short-barreled rifles, remain restricted under both state and federal law. Violations of these statutes can lead to felony charges that include the possibility of jail time.
The improper storage of a firearm can also result in legal consequences in some cases. For instance, Florida Statute § 790.174 makes it a crime to leave a loaded firearm within reach of a minor without proper security measures in place.
Contact a Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Learning about how Florida’s gun laws work is not only important for lawful ownership but also could be relevant when related injuries occur. Many personal injury cases involve valid assertions of negligence and reckless behavior involving weapons.
If you’ve been injured in an incident involving a firearm, contact Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Tampa personal injury attorney. You may be entitled to monetary damages for your injuries and related losses.
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About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL
