California Penal Code sections 25400 and 25610 require firearms transported by vehicle in Santa Clara County to be unloaded, with handguns inside a locked container or trunk. Long guns must be unloaded but may ride in the passenger compartment if encased.
Under Penal Code section 25610, a non-CCW driver may transport a handgun in Santa Clara County only if it is unloaded and stored in a locked container, including the trunk, separate from ammunition. Section 25400 makes a loaded or accessible concealed handgun in a vehicle a crime. Long guns must be unloaded under section 25850 but may travel in the cabin in a case. The Santa Clara County Sheriff and California Highway Patrol enforce on county roads, US-101, I-280, I-680, Highway 17, and unincorporated streets. CCW holders may carry concealed loaded handguns in the cabin per their permit, subject to SB-2 sensitive-place rules near schools, courthouses, and government buildings under Penal Code section 26230.
Loaded or accessible firearms in a vehicle without a CCW are misdemeanors under Penal Code section 25400 or 25850, with up to one year jail and possible felony charging if priors or aggravating factors apply.
See how Palo Alto's firearms in vehicles rules stack up against other locations.
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