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San Diego, CA Firearms: Concealed Carry (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Permit issuer
San Diego County Sheriff
Statute
Penal Code 25400, 26150
Training
Minimum 16 hours required
Sensitive places
Per Penal Code 26230

Summary

Penal Code section 25400 prohibits carrying a concealed firearm without a CCW. San Diego residents apply through the San Diego County Sheriff under shall-issue rules following Bruen, but SB-2 sensitive-place limits apply citywide.

(a) A person is guilty of carrying a concealed firearm when the person does any of the following: (1) Carries concealed within any vehicle that is under the person's control or direction any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. (2) Carries concealed upon the person any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. (3) Causes to be carried concealed within any vehicle in which the person is an occupant any pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person. (b) A firearm carried openly in a belt holster is not concealed within the meaning of this section.

Source: California Penal Code section 25400View official code

Full Breakdown

Carrying a concealed handgun in San Diego requires a California CCW issued under Penal Code section 26150. After the Supreme Court's 2022 Bruen decision and California SB-2 (2024), the San Diego County Sheriff and SDPD issue permits on a shall-issue basis to applicants who pass background checks, training, and good-moral-character review. Even with a permit, holders cannot carry in schools, government buildings, parks, hospitals, public transit, bars, or stadiums under Penal Code section 26230. Violations are misdemeanors, charged as felonies if loaded or with prior convictions. SDMC adds no separate concealed-carry rule.

Violations & Fines

Carrying concealed without a permit is a misdemeanor under Penal Code section 25400, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines, and a felony with aggravating factors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is California a shall-issue state for CCW?
Yes, since 2024. SB-2 reformed Penal Code section 26150 to require issuance to qualified applicants after Bruen, replacing the old good-cause discretionary standard.
Can I carry concealed in Balboa Park with my CCW?
No. Penal Code section 26230 lists parks among sensitive places where even permit holders cannot carry, with limited exceptions for property owners and licensed security.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Diego

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All San Diego rules

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