California broadly prohibits open carry of firearms statewide under Penal Code 25850 (loaded firearms in public) and Penal Code 26350 (open carry of unloaded handguns). The prohibition applies uniformly across all California cities and counties without local variation.
Penal Code 25850 makes it a crime to carry a loaded firearm in any public place or street within an incorporated city. Penal Code 26350 prohibits open carry of unloaded handguns in public places, and Penal Code 26400 prohibits open carry of unloaded long guns in incorporated cities. These prohibitions are statewide and apply equally in every California jurisdiction. Limited exemptions exist for hunting, target practice on lawful ranges, security guards, and law enforcement. Localities cannot authorize open carry in violation of state law.
Violations are typically misdemeanors punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines under Penal Code 25850 and 26350.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo prohibits nuisance barking under the city's noise ordinance and animal control provisions. Owners must prevent habitual barking that disturbs neigh...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo experiences aircraft noise from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 3 miles north. The city cannot restrict FAA-contro...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply w...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AMβ7 PM weekdays, 9 AMβ5 PM Saturdays, and noonβ4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet....
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo specifically regulates leaf blower operation under Chapter 10.80 in addition to the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with both the...
San Mateo, CA
Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building per...
See how San Mateo's open carry rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.