South Carolina law preempts local governments from regulating firearms, ammunition, components, and related accessories beyond what state law expressly authorizes.
Section 23-31-510 of the South Carolina Code prohibits any county, municipality, or political subdivision from enacting or enforcing ordinances that regulate the transfer, ownership, possession, carrying, or transportation of firearms, ammunition, components, or firearm supplies. The General Assembly reserved this authority entirely to itself, ensuring uniform statewide rules. Limited exceptions exist for regulating discharge of firearms within municipal limits and for restricting carry in specific government buildings. Local ordinances inconsistent with state preemption are void and unenforceable.
Local governments enacting conflicting ordinances face challenges voiding the rule; affected persons may sue to enjoin enforcement.
See how Summerville's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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