Understanding the Nuances of Florida’s Open Carry Regulations

With recent legislation changes in Florida, many law-abiding citizens are trying to make sense of what open carry actually means—and where they can legally exercise that right. Although Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law allowing constitutional carry, the reality is that open carry remains largely restricted throughout the state. This has led to significant confusion, frustration, and debate about what it truly means to support the Second Amendment in practice, not just in theory.

At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we stand proudly for the rights of American citizens to exercise their Second Amendment freedoms. While South Carolina takes a more liberty-centered stance compared to Florida’s newly muddled approach, it’s important to stay informed of developments nationwide—particularly when those changes appear anti-gun in nature under the guise of reform.

The Reality of Florida’s “Permitless Carry” Law

Though widely touted in the media as “constitutional carry,” the new Florida legislation signed into effect in July 2023 is not a true open carry law. While it allows permitless concealed carry for residents who are at least 21 years old and legally qualified, it stops short of legalizing the open carrying of firearms in most public places.

That’s right—if you’re openly carrying your firearm in Florida, chances are you’re breaking the law, even if you meet all the legal qualifications. The term “constitutional carry” may sound bold and patriotic, but Florida’s version is anything but comprehensive. In fact, their law still mimics more of a concealed-carry permission model than true Second Amendment freedom.

Where Open Carry Is Still Prohibited in Florida

The restrictions are vast and apply to a variety of everyday situations. Even with permitless concealed carry in place, open carry in Florida is still prohibited in most places unless you fall into highly specific scenarios. According to the new guidelines, expect restrictions in:

• Government buildings, including courthouses and police stations
• Schools and college or university campuses
• Polling places on Election Day
• Professional athletic events not related to firearms
• Bars and any location where alcohol is consumed on the premises
• Most private businesses that publicly post restrictions on firearms

These limitations have left many gun owners feeling betrayed by lawmakers who claim to champion gun rights but implement legislation that is anything but pro-Second Amendment in practice. Instead of requiring government permits, these poorly defined laws now force citizens to navigate a complicated web of exceptions.

The Exceptions Are Narrow and Limited

If you’re hoping to openly carry while hiking, fishing, or camping, you’re in luck—those are among the few carve-outs included in Florida’s law. Yet, most people realize quickly that their daily life doesn’t revolve around these niche activities. You can’t open carry on your way to the grocery store, while walking your dog, or even while pumping gas.

For a state that promotes itself as friendly toward gun ownership, Florida’s real-world application of the law tells a different story. It’s a case of legislative smoke and mirrors. The public was told they were being given back their rights, when in reality, those rights are now just cloaked in different restrictions.

Second Amendment Rights Should Not Be Compromised

It’s no secret that Florida has positioned itself politically as a bastion for individual freedoms. But when it comes to the Second Amendment, talking the talk is not the same as walking the walk. Patriotism isn’t about simply making headlines—it’s about ensuring lawful citizens have the freedom to defend themselves without bureaucratic red tape.

If the point of constitutional carry is to acknowledge the inherent right to bear arms, then placing arbitrary and inconsistent limits on where and how someone can carry essentially undermines the entire purpose. Responsible gun ownership shouldn’t depend on whether you are entering a building that sells beer or voting in an election. These rights are not second-class privileges—they are constitutional guarantees.

Training: More Important Than Ever

As laws grow more complex and enforcement becomes increasingly subject to interpretation, firearms training is no longer optional—it’s essential. At Fortress Firearms Training, we equip our students with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate ever-changing gun laws and defend themselves safely and legally.

Our classes go beyond shooting technique. We deeply educate our students about situational awareness, legal use of deadly force, and state-specific carry laws. We believe that every citizen not only deserves the right to carry but also the right to understand fully how to do so within the law.

The Slippery Slope of “Reform”

Experience tells us that once any restriction is accepted under the guise of reform, more are soon to follow. It begins with a few exceptions. Then, more places get added to the list. Before long, your rights are regulated into oblivion.

This is why firearm advocates must remain vigilant—not just at the range but also at the ballot box. Do not take watered-down victories as real wins. Demand transparency and push for legislation that reflects the full scope of your Second Amendment protections without compromise.

Why South Carolinians Should Pay Attention

What’s happening in Florida is not an isolated incident. It sets a precedent that other so-called “red states” might follow. At Fortress Firearms Training, we encourage every South Carolinian to stay informed, stay trained, and remain active in protecting our rights before similar legislation takes root here.

Because if they can chip away at gun rights in a freedom-loving state like Florida, what’s to prevent those same efforts from crossing state lines into ours?

Your Rights Deserve More Than Lip Service

Let’s be clear—any law that claims to expand gun rights but still keeps open carry illegal in the places where law-abiding citizens live, work, and worship is not a win for freedom. It’s a carefully worded political strategy designed to appease the base without upsetting more liberal constituencies. We believe in honest legislation that reflects constitutional truth—not murky half-measures masked as victory.

At Fortress Firearms Training, we remain committed to defending the rights of every gun-owning American through education, skill development, and advocacy. Don’t settle for confusing compromises. Choose freedom. Choose preparation. Choose to stand tall for your Second Amendment rights every single day.

To learn more about our classes and how we can help you become a more confident, informed gun owner, visit our homepage at fftcwp.org.