South Carolina allows concealed carry under permit and, since 2024, lawful permitless carry by eligible adults aged 18 or older.
The Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) program is administered by the State Law Enforcement Division under Article 4 of Title 23, Chapter 31. As of 2024, South Carolina enacted permitless (constitutional) carry, allowing eligible adults to carry concealed handguns without a permit, while preserving the optional CWP for reciprocity with other states. Carry remains prohibited in schools, courthouses, polling places, detention facilities, and properties posted by owners. Local governments cannot impose stricter concealed-carry rules due to statewide preemption under Section 23-31-510.
Carrying in prohibited locations is a misdemeanor; penalties include fines, possible jail time, and firearm confiscation.
See how Summerville's concealed carry rules stack up against other locations.
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