text:
(a) The secretary may award grants to public and private entities for training public prosecutors, peace officers, firefighters, community-based nonprofit organizations, and state or local environmental regulators in the investigation and enforcement of environmental laws.

(b) The secretary may award local assistance grants as follows for the enforcement of environmental laws:

(1) To local environmental regulators.

(2) To community-based nonprofit organizations.

(3) To local environmental regulators jointly with community-based nonprofit organizations.

(c) The secretary may allow local environmental regulators to subgrant funding to community-based nonprofit organizations.

(d) Grant funding awarded to community-based nonprofit organizations either directly by the secretary or through a subgrant pursuant to this section may be used to address environmental violations that occur in or disproportionately impact disadvantaged communities, to support the inclusion of residents of disadvantaged communities in environmental enforcement efforts, for the identification and investigation of environmental violations, and for the development and litigation of environmental enforcement cases.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 58, Sec. 34. (AB 200) Effective June 30, 2022.)


kind: section

code: PEN

text:
(a) The Environmental Circuit Prosecutor Grant Program is hereby established within the California Environmental Protection Agency.

(b) The Environmental Circuit Prosecutor Grant Program shall have the following purposes:

(1) Discourage the commission of violations of environmental laws by demonstrating the effective response of the criminal justice system to these violations, including, but not limited to, assisting district attorneys, particularly in rural counties, in the prosecution of criminal violations of environmental laws and regulations, where a district attorney has requested assistance.

(2) Establish model environmental crime prevention, enforcement, and prosecution techniques with statewide application for fair, uniform, and effective application.

(3) Increase the awareness and effectiveness of efforts to enforce environmental laws and to better integrate environmental prosecution into California’s established criminal justice system by providing on the job education and training to local peace officers and prosecutors and to local and state environmental regulators.

(4) Promote, through uniform and effective prosecution and local assistance, the effective enforcement of environmental laws and regulations.

(c) (1) The award of funds pursuant to this section may only be used to fund the costs of prosecutors, investigators, and research attorney staff, including salary, benefits, and expenses. The prosecutors, investigators, and research attorney staff may be either employees of a private nonprofit organization composed of local prosecutors, other than the California District Attorneys Association, or employees from local, state, or federal governmental agencies.

(2) The agency shall not award a grant to, or enter into a contract with, the California District Attorneys Association for the purpose of operating the Environmental Circuit Prosecutor Grant Program.

(d) (1) A district attorney may request funding from the Environmental Circuit Prosecutor Grant Program to fund a prosecutor, investigator, or research attorney who would be available in that county or another county for any of the following purposes:

(A) Assistance with the investigation and development of environmental cases.

(B) Consultation concerning whether an environmental case merits filing.

(C) Litigation support, including, but not limited to, the actual prosecution of the case. A district attorney shall, as appropriate, deputize a circuit prosecutor to prosecute cases within their jurisdiction.

(2) The authority of a deputized circuit prosecutor shall be consistent with and shall not exceed the authority of the elected district attorney or their deputies.

(3) Violations of city or county ordinances may be prosecuted by circuit prosecutors when there is an environmental nexus between the ordinance and a violation of state law, federal law, or both state and federal law.

(4) Participating district attorney offices shall provide matching funds or in-kind contributions equivalent to, but not less than, 20 percent of the expense of the deputized environmental circuit prosecutor.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 83, Sec. 9. (SB 157) Effective July 16, 2021.)

path: 13. LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS > 4. Environmental Circuit Prosecutor Project


text:
Notwithstanding any other provision of this title, the agency shall not implement this title until there is an amount of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) in the account.

Funds in the account shall be divided as follows:

(a) Twenty-five percent or one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) to the commission, whichever is less. The commission may decline all or part of the funds allocated to it pursuant to this subdivision. Any funds so declined shall be reallocated by the secretary to any of the entities listed in subdivisions (b), (c), and (d) for the training of peace officers consistent with this title.

(b) (1) The balance to the secretary for grants awarded to programs pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 14306) or Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 14309) based on need or in order to sustain the current level of presence and enforcement for those programs.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the commission may also seek additional funding from the money allocated in this subdivision based on need if the environmental law enforcement training is mandated or if there are substantial changes in the law that require the commission to revise its environmental law courses.

(c) The secretary shall develop an application process for awarding funds to programs pursuant to subdivision (b).

(d) The agency shall not award grants to, or enter into a contract with, the California District Attorneys Association for funding pursuant to this title.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 83, Sec. 10. (SB 157) Effective July 16, 2021.)

path: 13. LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS > 5. Implementation and Funding Priorities


text: Not later than 36 months after the date when this title may be implemented, as specified in Section 14314, the secretary shall post on the agency’s Web site, updated no later than July 1, annually, a description of the operation and accomplishments of the training programs and the environmental enforcement and prosecution projects funded by this title. The commission shall prepare the section of the report pertaining to the course of instruction authorized in Section 14304 and submit it to the secretary for inclusion in the report.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 644, Sec. 27. Effective January 1, 2005.)

title: 13. LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS

chapter: 5. Implementation and Funding Priorities


text:
(a) The construction of a memorial to California peace officers on the grounds of the State Capitol is hereby authorized. For purposes of this part, the grounds of the State Capitol are that property in the City of Sacramento bounded by Ninth, Fifteenth, “L,” and “N” Streets. The actual site for the memorial shall be selected by the commission after consultation with the Department of General Services and the State Office of Historic Preservation.

(b) Funds for the construction of the memorial shall be provided through private contributions for this purpose.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1518, Sec. 1.)

part: 5. PEACE OFFICERS' MEMORIAL

path: 13. LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL ENFORCEMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS > 5. PEACE OFFICERS' MEMORIAL


text: Peace officer memorial ceremonies, including the dedication of the memorial and any subsequent ceremonies, shall be conducted by the California Peace Officers’ Memorial Foundation, Inc.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 86, Sec. 242. (SB 1171) Effective January 1, 2017.)


text: This act recodifies the provisions of former Title 2 (commencing with Section 12000) of Part 4, which was entitled “Control of Deadly Weapons.” The act shall be known and may be cited as the “Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.”

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 711, Sec. 6. (SB 1080) Effective January 1, 2011. Operative January 1, 2012, by Sec. 10 of Ch. 711.)

division: 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS

path: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS > 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS


text: Nothing in the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010 is intended to substantively change the law relating to deadly weapons. The act is intended to be entirely nonsubstantive in effect. Every provision of this part, of Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, and every other provision of this act, including, without limitation, every cross-reference in every provision of the act, shall be interpreted consistent with the nonsubstantive intent of the act.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) A provision of this part or of Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, insofar as it is substantially the same as a previously existing provision relating to the same subject matter, shall be considered as a restatement and continuation thereof and not as a new enactment.

(b) A reference in a statute to a previously existing provision that is restated and continued in this part or in Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or in any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, shall, unless a contrary intent appears, be deemed a reference to the restatement and continuation.

(c) A reference in a statute to a provision of this part or of Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, which is substantially the same as a previously existing provision, shall, unless a contrary intent appears, be deemed to include a reference to the previously existing provision.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: If a previously existing provision is restated and continued in this part, or in Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or in any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, a conviction under that previously existing provision shall, unless a contrary intent appears, be treated as a prior conviction under the restatement and continuation of that provision.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) A judicial decision interpreting a previously existing provision is relevant in interpreting any provision of this part, of Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, which restates and continues that previously existing provision.

(b) However, in enacting the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, the Legislature has not evaluated the correctness of any judicial decision interpreting a provision affected by the act.

(c) The Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010 is not intended to, and does not, reflect any assessment of any judicial decision interpreting any provision affected by the act.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) A judicial decision determining the constitutionality of a previously existing provision is relevant in determining the constitutionality of any provision of this part, of Title 2 (commencing with Section 12001) of Part 4, or any other provision of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, which restates and continues that previously existing provision.

(b) However, in enacting the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010, the Legislature has not evaluated the constitutionality of any provision affected by the act, or the correctness of any judicial decision determining the constitutionality of any provision affected by the act.

(c) The Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010 is not intended to, and does not, reflect any determination of the constitutionality of any provision affected by the act.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “.50 BMG cartridge” is governed by Section 30525.

division: 2. DEFINITIONS

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS

path: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS > 2. DEFINITIONS


text: Use of the term “.50 BMG rifle” is governed by Section 30530.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “abuse” means any of the following:

(a) Intentionally or recklessly to cause or attempt to cause bodily injury.

(b) Sexual assault.

(c) To place a person in reasonable apprehension of imminent serious bodily injury to that person or to another.

(d) To molest, attack, strike, stalk, destroy personal property, or violate the terms of a domestic violence protective order issued pursuant to Part 4 (commencing with Section 6300) of Division 10 of the Family Code.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Section 26915, “agent” means an employee of the licensee.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “air gauge knife” means a device that appears to be an air gauge but has concealed within it a pointed, metallic shaft that is designed to be a stabbing instrument which is exposed by mechanical action or gravity which locks into place when extended.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, except in subdivision (a) of Section 30305 and in Section 30306, “ammunition” means one or more loaded cartridges consisting of a primed case, propellant, and with one or more projectiles. “Ammunition” does not include blanks.

(b) As used in subdivision (a) of Section 30305 and in Section 30306, “ammunition” includes, but is not limited to, any bullet, cartridge, magazine, clip, speed loader, autoloader, ammunition feeding device, or projectile capable of being fired from a firearm with a deadly consequence. “Ammunition” does not include blanks.

(c) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020.

history: (History: Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 780, Sec. 3. (SB 746) Effective January 1, 2019. Section operative July 1, 2020, by its own provisions.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, commencing January 1, 2018, “ammunition vendor” means any person, firm, corporation, or other business enterprise that holds a current ammunition vendor license issued pursuant to Section 30385.

(b) Commencing January 1, 2018, a firearms dealer licensed pursuant to Sections 26700 to 26915, inclusive, shall automatically be deemed a licensed ammunition vendor, provided the dealer complies with the requirements of Articles 2 (commencing with Section 30300) and 3 (commencing with Section 30342) of Chapter 1 of Division 10 of Title 4.

history: (History: Added November 8, 2016, by initiative Proposition 63, Sec. 8.2.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “antique cannon” means any cannon manufactured before January 1, 1899, which has been rendered incapable of firing or for which ammunition is no longer manufactured in the United States and is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Sections 30515 and 30530, “antique firearm” means any firearm manufactured before January 1, 1899.

(b) As used in Section 16520, Section 16650, subdivision (a) of Section 23630, paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 27505, and subdivision (a) of Section 31615, “antique firearm” has the same meaning as in Section 921(a)(16) of Title 18 of the United States Code.

(c) As used in Sections 16531 and 17700, “antique firearm” means either of the following:

(1) Any firearm not designed or redesigned for using rimfire or conventional center fire ignition with fixed ammunition and manufactured in or before the year 1898. This type of firearm includes any matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap, or similar type of ignition system or replica thereof, whether actually manufactured before or after the year 1898.

(2) Any firearm using fixed ammunition manufactured in or before the year 1898, for which ammunition is no longer manufactured in the United States and is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 730, Sec. 1. (AB 879) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “antique rifle” means a firearm conforming to the definition of an “antique firearm” in Section 479.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “application to purchase” means either of the following:

(a) The initial completion of the register by the purchaser, transferee, or person being loaned a firearm, as required by Section 28210.

(b) The initial completion and transmission to the Department of Justice of the record of electronic or telephonic transfer by the dealer on the purchaser, transferee, or person being loaned a firearm, as required by Section 28215.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 3. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “assault weapon” is governed by Sections 30510 and 30515.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “ballistic knife” means a device that propels a knifelike blade as a projectile by means of a coil spring, elastic material, or compressed gas. Ballistic knife does not include any device that propels an arrow or a bolt by means of any common bow, compound bow, crossbow, or underwater speargun.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “ballistics identification system” includes, but is not limited to, any automated image analysis system that is capable of storing firearm ballistic markings and tracing those markings to the firearm that produced them.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “basic firearms safety certificate” means a certificate issued before January 1, 2003, by the Department of Justice pursuant to former Article 8 (commencing with Section 12800) of Chapter 6 of Title 2 of Part 4, as that article read at any time from when it became operative on January 1, 1992, to when it was repealed on January 1, 2003.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “BB device” means any instrument that expels a projectile, such as a BB or a pellet, through the force of air pressure, gas pressure, or spring action, or any spot marker gun.

(b) This section shall be operative on January 1, 2016.

history: (History: Repealed (in Sec. 1) and added by Stats. 2014, Ch. 915, Sec. 2. (SB 199) Effective January 1, 2015. Section operative January 1, 2016, by its own provisions.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “belt buckle knife” is a knife that is made an integral part of a belt buckle and consists of a blade with a length of at least two and one-half inches.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “blowgun” means a hollow tube designed and intended to be used as a tube through which a dart is propelled by the force of the breath of the user.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “blowgun ammunition” means a dart designed and intended for use in a blowgun.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Section 31360, “body armor” means any bullet-resistant material intended to provide ballistic and trauma protection for the person wearing the body armor.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “body vest” or “body shield” means any bullet-resistant material intended to provide ballistic and trauma protection for the wearer or holder.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “bona fide evidence of identity” or “bona fide evidence of majority and identity” means a document issued by a federal, state, county, or municipal government, or subdivision or agency thereof, including, but not limited to, a motor vehicle operator’s license, state identification card, identification card issued to a member of the armed forces, or other form of identification that bears the name, date of birth, description, and picture of the person.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “boobytrap” means any concealed or camouflaged device designed to cause great bodily injury when triggered by an action of any unsuspecting person coming across the device. Boobytraps may include, but are not limited to, guns, ammunition, or explosive devices attached to trip wires or other triggering mechanisms, sharpened stakes, and lines or wire with hooks attached.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “camouflaging firearm container” means a container that meets all of the following criteria:

(1) It is designed and intended to enclose a firearm.

(2) It is designed and intended to allow the firing of the enclosed firearm by external controls while the firearm is in the container.

(3) It is not readily recognizable as containing a firearm.

(b) “Camouflaging firearm container” does not include any camouflaging covering used while engaged in lawful hunting or while going to or returning from a lawful hunting expedition.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “cane gun” means any firearm mounted or enclosed in a stick, staff, rod, crutch, or similar device, designed to be, or capable of being used as, an aid in walking, if the firearm may be fired while mounted or enclosed therein.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “cane sword” means a cane, swagger stick, stick, staff, rod, pole, umbrella, or similar device, having concealed within it a blade that may be used as a sword or stiletto.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Section 30515, “capacity to accept more than 10 rounds” means capable of accommodating more than 10 rounds. The term does not apply to a feeding device that has been permanently altered so that it cannot accommodate more than 10 rounds.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “CCW” means “carry concealed weapons.”

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 31610 to 31700, inclusive, “certified instructor” or “DOJ Certified Instructor” means a person designated as a handgun safety instructor by the Department of Justice pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 31635.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “chamber load indicator” means a device that plainly indicates that a cartridge is in the firing chamber. A device satisfies this definition if it is readily visible, has incorporated or adjacent explanatory text or graphics, or both, and is designed and intended to indicate to a reasonably foreseeable adult user of the pistol, without requiring the user to refer to a user’s manual or any other resource other than the pistol itself, whether a cartridge is in the firing chamber.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “clear evidence of the person’s identity and age” means either of the following:

(a) A valid California driver’s license.

(b) A valid California identification card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “composite knuckles” means any device or instrument made wholly or partially of composite materials, other than a medically prescribed prosthetic, that is not metal knuckles, that is worn for purposes of offense or defense in or on the hand, and that either protects the wearer’s hand while striking a blow or increases the force of impact from the blow or injury to the individual receiving the blow.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “consultant-evaluator” means a consultant or evaluator who, in the course of that person’s profession is loaned firearms from a person licensed pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto, for research or evaluation, and has a current certificate of eligibility issued pursuant to Section 26710.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “dagger” is governed by Section 16470.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Division 4 (commencing with Section 18250) of Title 2, “deadly weapon” means any weapon, the possession or concealed carrying of which is prohibited by any provision listed in Section 16590.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “dealer” is governed by Section 26700.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 31610 to 31700, inclusive, in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29030) of Division 7 of Title 4, and in Article 3 (commencing with Section 30345) of Chapter 1 of Division 10 of Title 4, “department” means the Department of Justice.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Sections 16510, 16520, and 16780, and in Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 18710) of Division 5 of Title 2, “destructive device” includes any of the following weapons:

(1) Any projectile containing any explosive or incendiary material or any other chemical substance, including, but not limited to, that which is commonly known as tracer or incendiary ammunition, except tracer ammunition manufactured for use in shotguns.

(2) Any bomb, grenade, explosive missile, or similar device or any launching device therefor.

(3) Any weapon of a caliber greater than 0.60 caliber which fires fixed ammunition, or any ammunition therefor, other than a shotgun (smooth or rifled bore) conforming to the definition of a “destructive device” found in subsection (b) of Section 479.11 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations, shotgun ammunition (single projectile or shot), antique rifle, or an antique cannon.

(4) Any rocket, rocket-propelled projectile, or similar device of a diameter greater than 0.60 inch, or any launching device therefor, and any rocket, rocket-propelled projectile, or similar device containing any explosive or incendiary material or any other chemical substance, other than the propellant for that device, except those devices as are designed primarily for emergency or distress signaling purposes.

(5) Any breakable container that contains a flammable liquid with a flashpoint of 150 degrees Fahrenheit or less and has a wick or similar device capable of being ignited, other than a device which is commercially manufactured primarily for the purpose of illumination.

(6) Any sealed device containing dry ice (CO2) or other chemically reactive substances assembled for the purpose of causing an explosion by a chemical reaction.

(b) A bullet containing or carrying an explosive agent is not a destructive device as that term is used in subdivision (a).

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “dirk” or “dagger” means a knife or other instrument with or without a handguard that is capable of ready use as a stabbing weapon that may inflict great bodily injury or death. A nonlocking folding knife, a folding knife that is not prohibited by Section 21510, or a pocketknife is capable of ready use as a stabbing weapon that may inflict great bodily injury or death only if the blade of the knife is exposed and locked into position.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “DOJ Certified Instructor” is governed by Section 16370.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “domestic violence” means abuse perpetrated against any of the following persons:

(a) A spouse or former spouse.

(b) A cohabitant or former cohabitant, as defined in Section 6209 of the Family Code.

(c) A person with whom the respondent is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship.

(d) A person with whom the respondent has had a child, where the presumption applies that the male parent is the father of the child of the female parent under the Uniform Parentage Act (Part 3 (commencing with Section 7600) of Division 12 of the Family Code).

(e) A child of a party or a child who is the subject of an action under the Uniform Parentage Act, where the presumption applies that the male parent is the father of the child to be protected.

(f) Any other person related by consanguinity or affinity within the second degree.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the phrase “drop safety requirement for handguns” is governed by Section 31900.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: For purposes of Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 26400) of Division 5 of Title 4, a firearm is “encased” when that firearm is enclosed in a case that is expressly made for the purpose of containing a firearm and that is completely zipped, snapped, buckled, tied, or otherwise fastened with no part of that firearm exposed.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 700, Sec. 4. (AB 1527) Effective January 1, 2013.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in subdivision (a) of Section 16460 and Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 18710) of Division 5 of Title 2, “explosive” means any substance, or combination of substances, the primary or common purpose of which is detonation or rapid combustion, and which is capable of a relatively instantaneous or rapid release of gas and heat, or any substance, the primary purpose of which, when combined with others, is to form a substance capable of a relatively instantaneous or rapid release of gas and heat. “Explosive” includes, but is not limited to, any explosive as defined in Section 841 of Title 18 of the United States Code and published pursuant to Section 555.23 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and any of the following:

(a) Dynamite, nitroglycerine, picric acid, lead azide, fulminate of mercury, black powder, smokeless powder, propellant explosives, detonating primers, blasting caps, or commercial boosters.

(b) Substances determined to be division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, or 1.6 explosives as classified by the United States Department of Transportation.

(c) Nitro carbo nitrate substances (blasting agent) classified as division 1.5 explosives by the United States Department of Transportation.

(d) Any material designated as an explosive by the State Fire Marshal. The designation shall be made pursuant to the classification standards established by the United States Department of Transportation. The State Fire Marshal shall adopt regulations in accordance with the Government Code to establish procedures for the classification and designation of explosive materials or explosive devices that are not under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Transportation pursuant to provisions of Section 841 of Title 18 of the United States Code and published pursuant to Section 555.23 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations that define explosives.

(e) Certain division 1.4 explosives as designated by the United States Department of Transportation when listed in regulations adopted by the State Fire Marshal.

(f) As used in Section 16460 and Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 18710) of Division 5 of Title 2, “explosive” does not include any destructive device, nor does it include ammunition or small arms primers manufactured for use in shotguns, rifles, and pistols.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: “Federal licensee authorized to serialize firearms” means a person, firm, corporation, or other entity that holds any valid federal firearms license that authorizes the person, firm, corporation, or other entity to imprint serial numbers onto firearms pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and regulations issued pursuant thereto.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 76, Sec. 3. (AB 1621) Effective June 30, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: “Federally licensed manufacturer or importer” means a person, firm, corporation, or other entity that holds a valid license to manufacture or import firearms issued pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and regulations issued pursuant thereto.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 76, Sec. 4. (AB 1621) Effective June 30, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: “Federally regulated firearm precursor part” means any firearm precursor part deemed to be a firearm pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and regulations issued pursuant thereto, and, if required, has been imprinted with a serial number by a federal licensee authorized to serialize firearms in compliance with all applicable federal laws and regulations.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 76, Sec. 5. (AB 1621) Effective June 30, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “firearm” means a device, designed to be used as a weapon, from which is expelled through a barrel, a projectile by the force of an explosion or other form of combustion.

(b) As used in the following provisions, “firearm” includes the frame or receiver of the weapon, including both a completed frame or receiver, or a firearm precursor part:

(1) Section 136.2.

(2) Section 646.91.

(3) Sections 16515 and 16517.

(4) Section 16550.

(5) Section 16730.

(6) Section 16960.

(7) Section 16990.

(8) Section 17070.

(9) Section 17310.

(10) Sections 18100 to 18500, inclusive.

(11) Section 23690.

(12) Sections 23900 to 23925, inclusive.

(13) Commencing on July 1, 2026, Sections 25250 to 25275, inclusive.

(14) Sections 26500 to 26590, inclusive.

(15) Sections 26600 to 27140, inclusive.

(16) Sections 27200 to 28490, inclusive.

(17) Sections 29010 to 29150, inclusive.

(18) Section 29185.

(19) Sections 29610 to 29750, inclusive.

(20) Sections 29800 to 29905, inclusive.

(21) Sections 30150 to 30165, inclusive.

(22) Section 31615.

(23) Sections 31700 to 31830, inclusive.

(24) Sections 34355 to 34370, inclusive.

(25) Sections 527.6 to 527.9, inclusive, of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(26) Sections 8100 to 8108, inclusive, of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(27) Section 15657.03 of the Welfare and Institutions Code.

(c) As used in the following provisions, “firearm” also includes a rocket, rocket propelled projectile launcher, or similar device containing an explosive or incendiary material, whether or not the device is designed for emergency or distress signaling purposes:

(1) Section 16750.

(2) Subdivision (b) of Section 16840.

(3) Section 25400.

(4) Sections 25850 to 26025, inclusive.

(5) Subdivisions (a), (b), and (c) of Section 26030.

(6) Sections 26035 to 26055, inclusive.

(d) As used in the following provisions, “firearm” does not include an unloaded antique firearm:

(1) Section 16730.

(2) Section 16550.

(3) Section 16960.

(4) Section 17310.

(5) Subdivision (b) of Section 23920.

(6) Section 25135.

(7) Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 26350) of Division 5 of Title 4.

(8) Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 26400) of Division 5 of Title 4.

(9) Sections 26500 to 26588, inclusive.

(10) Sections 26700 to 26915, inclusive.

(11) Section 27510.

(12) Section 27530.

(13) Section 27540.

(14) Section 27545.

(15) Sections 27555 to 27585, inclusive.

(16) Sections 29010 to 29150, inclusive.

(17) Section 29180.

(e) As used in Sections 34005 and 34010, “firearm” does not include a destructive device.

(f) As used in Sections 17280 and 24680, “firearm” has the same meaning as in Section 922 of Title 18 of the United States Code.

(g) As used in Sections 29180 to 29184, inclusive, “firearm” includes the completed frame or receiver of a weapon.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 239, Sec. 1. (AB 725) Effective January 1, 2024.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Section 33700, “firearm barrel” means the tube, usually metal and cylindrical, through which a projectile or shot charge is fired. A firearm barrel includes any forging, casting, printing, extrusion, machined body, or similar article that has reached a stage in manufacture where it may readily be completed, assembled, or converted to be used as a firearm barrel, or that is marketed or sold to the public to become or be used as a firearm barrel once completed, assembled, or converted. A firearm barrel may have a rifled or smooth bore.

(b) A firearm barrel that is attached or affixed to a firearm is not subject to the requirements of Section 33700.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 591, Sec. 1. (SB 704) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, the terms “firearm capable of being concealed upon the person,” “pistol,” and “revolver” apply to and include any device designed to be used as a weapon, from which is expelled a projectile by the force of any explosion, or other form of combustion, and that has a barrel less than 16 inches in length. These terms also include any device that has a barrel 16 inches or more in length which is designed to be interchanged with a barrel less than 16 inches in length.

(b) Nothing shall prevent a device defined as a “firearm capable of being concealed upon the person,” “pistol,” or “revolver” from also being found to be a short-barreled rifle or a short-barreled shotgun.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) “Firearm precursor part” means any forging, casting, printing, extrusion, machined body or similar article that has reached a stage in manufacture where it may readily be completed, assembled or converted to be used as the frame or receiver of a functional firearm, or that is marketed or sold to the public to become or be used as the frame or receiver of a functional firearm once completed, assembled or converted.

(b) The Department of Justice, consistent with this section, shall provide written guidance and pictorial diagrams demonstrating examples of firearm precursor parts.

(c) Firearm parts that can only be used on antique firearms, as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 16170, are not firearm precursor parts.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 76, Sec. 7. (AB 1621) Effective June 30, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “firearm safety certificate” means a certificate issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Sections 31610 to 31700, inclusive, or pursuant to former Article 8 (commencing with Section 12800) of Chapter 6 of Title 2 of Part 4, as that article was operative at any time from January 1, 2003, until it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2015.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 761, Sec. 1. (SB 683) Effective January 1, 2014. Section operative January 1, 2015, by its own provisions.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “firearm safety device” means a device other than a gun safe that locks and is designed to prevent children and unauthorized users from firing a firearm. The device may be installed on a firearm, be incorporated into the design of the firearm, or prevent access to the firearm.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 4. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “firearm transaction record” is a record containing the same information referred to in subdivision (a) of Section 478.124, Section 478.124a, and subdivision (e) of Section 478.125 of Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the phrase “firing requirement for handguns” is governed by Section 31905.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “flechette dart” means a dart, capable of being fired from a firearm, that measures approximately one inch in length, with tail fins that take up approximately five-sixteenths of an inch of the body.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) Except as stated in subdivision (c), the following provisions are continuations of provisions that were included in former Article 4 (commencing with Section 12070) of Chapter 1 of Title 2 of Part 4, entitled “Licenses to Sell Firearms,” when that article was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010:

(1) Section 16130.

(2) Subdivision (b) of Section 16170, to the extent that it continues former Sections 12078 and 12085, as those sections read when they were repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(3) Section 16230.

(4) Section 16400.

(5) Section 16450, to the extent that it continues subdivision (a) of former Section 12086, as that subdivision read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(6) Subdivisions (b) and (d) of Section 16520, to the extent that they continue subdivision (e) of former Section 12085, as that subdivision read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(7) Subdivision (g) of Section 16520.

(8) Section 16550.

(9) Section 16620.

(10) Section 16720.

(11) Section 16730.

(12) Section 16740, to the extent that it continues subdivision (b) of former Section 12079, as that subdivision read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(13) Section 16800.

(14) Section 16810.

(15) Section 16960.

(16) Section 16990.

(17) Section 17110.

(18) Section 17310.

(19) Sections 26500 to 26588, inclusive.

(20) Sections 26600 to 29150, inclusive.

(21) Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29500) of Division 8 of Title 4.

(22) Section 30105.

(23) Sections 30150 to 30165, inclusive.

(24) Sections 31705 to 31830, inclusive.

(25) Section 32315.

(26) Section 34205.

(27) Sections 34350 to 34370, inclusive.

(b) Except as stated in subdivision (c), the provisions listed in subdivision (a) may be referred to as “former Article 4 of Chapter 1 provisions.”

(c) Subdivision (a) does not include any provision that was first codified in one of the specified numerical ranges after the effective date of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) Except as stated in subdivision (c), the following provisions are continuations of provisions that were included in former Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 12000) of Title 2 of Part 4, entitled “Firearms,” when that chapter was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010:

(1) Sections 12001 to 12022.95, inclusive.

(2) Sections 16120 to 16140, inclusive.

(3) Subdivision (b) of Section 16170, to the extent it continues former Sections 12001, 12060, 12078, 12085, and 12088.8, as those sections read when they were repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(4) Subdivision (c) of Section 16170.

(5) Section 16190.

(6) Sections 16220 to 16240, inclusive.

(7) Section 16250, to the extent it continues former Section 12001, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(8) Section 16260.

(9) Sections 16320 to 16340, inclusive.

(10) Section 16360.

(11) Sections 16400 to 16410, inclusive.

(12) Section 16430.

(13) Section 16450, to the extent it continues former Sections 12060 and 12086, as those sections read when they were repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(14) Subdivision (b) of Section 16460.

(15) Section 16470.

(16) Section 16490.

(17) Subdivision (a) of Section 16520, to the extent it continues former Section 12001, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(18) Subdivisions (b) to (g), inclusive, of Section 16520.

(19) Sections 16530 to 16550, inclusive.

(20) Section 16570.

(21) Sections 16600 to 16640, inclusive.

(22) Section 16650, to the extent it continues former Section 12060, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(23) Section 16662, to the extent it continues former Section 12060, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(24) Sections 16670 to 16690, inclusive.

(25) Sections 16720 to 16760, inclusive.

(26) Sections 16800 and 16810.

(27) Sections 16830 to 16870, inclusive.

(28) Sections 16920 to 16960, inclusive.

(29) Sections 16990 and 17000.

(30) Sections 17020 to 17070, inclusive.

(31) Section 17090, to the extent it continues former Section 12020, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(32) Section 17110.

(33) Section 17125.

(34) Section 17160.

(35) Sections 17170 to 17200, inclusive.

(36) Sections 17270 to 17290, inclusive.

(37) Sections 17310 and 17315.

(38) Sections 17330 to 17505, inclusive.

(39) Sections 17515 to 18500, inclusive.

(40) Sections 19100 to 19290, inclusive.

(41) Sections 20200 to 21390, inclusive.

(42) Sections 21790 to 22490, inclusive.

(43) Sections 23500 to 30290, inclusive.

(44) Sections 30345 to 30365, inclusive.

(45) Sections 31500 to 31590, inclusive.

(46) Sections 31705 to 31830, inclusive.

(47) Sections 32310 to 32450, inclusive.

(48) Sections 32900 to 33320, inclusive.

(49) Sections 33600 to 34370, inclusive.

(b) Except as stated in subdivision (c), the provisions listed in subdivision (a) may be referred to as “former Chapter 1 provisions.”

(c) Subdivision (a) does not include any provision that was first codified in one of the specified numerical ranges after the effective date of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) Except as stated in subdivision (d), the following provisions are continuations of provisions that were included in former Section 12078, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010:

(1) Subdivision (b) of Section 16170, as it pertains to former Section 12078, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(2) Section 16720.

(3) Subdivision (a) of Section 16730, as it pertains to former Section 12078, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(4) Subdivision (b) of Section 16730.

(5) Section 16990.

(6) Sections 26600 to 26615, inclusive.

(7) Sections 26950 to 27140, inclusive.

(8) Sections 27400 to 27415, inclusive.

(9) Subdivision (b) of Section 27505, as it pertains to former Section 12078, as that section read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

(10) Sections 27600 to 28000, inclusive.

(11) Sections 28400 to 28415, inclusive.

(12) Sections 30150 to 30165, inclusive.

(13) Sections 31705 to 31830, inclusive.

(14) Sections 34355 to 34370, inclusive.

(b) Except as stated in subdivision (d), the provisions listed in subdivision (a) may be referred to as “former Section 12078 provisions.”

(c) Except as stated in subdivision (d), the following provisions are continuations of provisions that were included in subdivision (a) of former Section 12078, as that subdivision read when it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010:

(1) Sections 26600 to 26615, inclusive.

(2) Section 26950.

(3) Sections 27050 to 27065, inclusive.

(4) Sections 27400 to 27415, inclusive.

(5) Sections 27600 to 27615, inclusive.

(6) Section 27650.

(7) Sections 27850 to 27860, inclusive.

(8) Sections 28400 to 28415, inclusive.

(9) Sections 30150 to 30165, inclusive.

(10) Sections 31705 to 31735, inclusive.

(11) Sections 34355 to 34370, inclusive.

(d) Subdivisions (a) and (c) do not include any provision that was first codified in one of the specified numerical ranges after the effective date of the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “generally prohibited weapon” means any of the following:

(a) An air gauge knife, as prohibited by Section 20310.

(b) Ammunition that contains or consists of a flechette dart, as prohibited by Section 30210.

(c) A ballistic knife, as prohibited by Section 21110.

(d) A belt buckle knife, as prohibited by Section 20410.

(e) A bullet containing or carrying an explosive agent, as prohibited by Section 30210.

(f) A camouflaging firearm container, as prohibited by Section 24310.

(g) A cane gun, as prohibited by Section 24410.

(h) A cane sword, as prohibited by Section 20510.

(i) A concealed dirk or dagger, as prohibited by Section 21310.

(j) A concealed explosive substance, other than fixed ammunition, as prohibited by Section 19100.

(k) A firearm that is not immediately recognizable as a firearm, as prohibited by Section 24510.

(l) A large-capacity magazine, as prohibited by Section 32310.

(m) A leaded cane or an instrument or weapon of the kind commonly known as a billy, blackjack, sandbag, sandclub, sap, or slungshot, as prohibited by Section 22210.

(n) A lipstick case knife, as prohibited by Section 20610.

(o) Metal knuckles, as prohibited by Section 21810.

(p) A metal military practice handgrenade or a metal replica handgrenade, as prohibited by Section 19200.

(q) A multiburst trigger activator, as prohibited by Section 32900.

(r) A shobi-zue, as prohibited by Section 20710.

(s) A short-barreled rifle or short-barreled shotgun, as prohibited by Section 33215.

(t) A shuriken, as prohibited by Section 22410.

(u) An unconventional pistol, as prohibited by Section 31500.

(v) An undetectable firearm, as prohibited by Section 24610.

(w) A wallet gun, as prohibited by Section 24710.

(x) A writing pen knife, as prohibited by Section 20910.

(y) A zip gun, as prohibited by Section 33600.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 434, Sec. 22. (SB 827) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 25100) of Division 4 of Title 4, “great bodily injury” means a significant or substantial physical injury.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “gun safe” means a locking container that fully contains and secures one or more firearms, and that meets the standards for gun safes adopted pursuant to Section 23650.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “Gun Show Trader” means a person described in Section 26525.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “gunsmith” means any person who is licensed as a dealer pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto, who is engaged primarily in the business of repairing firearms, or making or fitting special barrels, stocks, or trigger mechanisms to firearms, or the agent or employee of that person.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “handgun” means any pistol, revolver, or firearm capable of being concealed upon the person.

(b) Nothing shall prevent a device defined as a “handgun” from also being found to be a short-barreled rifle or a short-barreled shotgun.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “handgun ammunition” means ammunition principally for use in pistols, revolvers, and other firearms capable of being concealed upon the person, notwithstanding that the ammunition may also be used in some rifles.

(b) As used in Section 30312 and in Article 3 (commencing with Section 30345) of Chapter 1 of Division 10 of Title 4, “handgun ammunition” does not include either of the following:

(1) Ammunition designed and intended to be used in an antique firearm.

(2) Blanks.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “handgun ammunition designed primarily to penetrate metal or armor” means any ammunition, except a shotgun shell or ammunition primarily designed for use in a rifle, that is designed primarily to penetrate a body vest or body shield, and has either of the following characteristics:

(a) Has projectile or projectile core constructed entirely, excluding the presence of traces of other substances, from one or a combination of tungsten alloys, steel, iron, brass, beryllium copper, or depleted uranium, or any equivalent material of similar density or hardness.

(b) Is primarily manufactured or designed, by virtue of its shape, cross-sectional density, or any coating applied thereto, including, but not limited to, ammunition commonly known as “KTW ammunition,” to breach or penetrate a body vest or body shield when fired from a pistol, revolver, or other firearm capable of being concealed upon the person.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “handgun safety certificate” means a certificate issued by the Department of Justice pursuant to Sections 31610 to 31700, inclusive, or pursuant to former Article 8 (commencing with Section 12800) of Chapter 6 of Title 2 of Part 4, as that article was operative at any time from January 1, 2003, until it was repealed by the Deadly Weapons Recodification Act of 2010.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “hard wooden knuckles” means any device or instrument made wholly or partially of wood or paper products that is not metal knuckles, that is worn for purposes of offense or defense in or on the hand, and that either protects the wearer’s hand while striking a blow, or increases the force of impact from the blow or injury to the individual receiving the blow. The composite materials, wood, or paper products contained in the device may help support the hand or fist, provide a shield to protect it, or consist of projections or studs that would contact the individual receiving a blow.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, a valid and unexpired “hunting license” means a hunting license issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 3031) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 4 of the Fish and Game Code, for which the time period authorized for the taking of birds or mammals has commenced but not expired.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 250, Sec. 5. (SB 715) Effective January 1, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Sections 25650 and 26020, Article 2 (commencing with Section 25450) of Chapter 2 of Division 5 of Title 4, Article 3 (commencing with Section 25900) of Chapter 3 of Division 5 of Title 4, and Section 32406, as added by Chapter 58 of the Statutes of 2016 and as added by Proposition 63, “honorably retired” includes:

(1) A peace officer who has qualified for, and has accepted, a service or disability retirement.

(2) A retired level I reserve officer who meets the requirements specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 26300.

(b) As used in this section, “honorably retired” does not include an officer who has agreed to a service retirement in lieu of termination.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 63, Sec. 1. (AB 1192) Effective January 1, 2019.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) (1) As used in this part, “imitation firearm” means any BB device, toy gun, replica of a firearm, or other device that is so substantially similar in coloration and overall appearance to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to perceive that the device is a firearm.

(2) “Imitation firearm” also includes, but is not limited to, a protective case for a cellular telephone that is so substantially similar in coloration and overall appearance to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to perceive that the case is a firearm.

(b) As used in Section 20165, “imitation firearm” does not include any of the following:

(1) A nonfiring collector’s replica that is historically significant, and is offered for sale in conjunction with a wall plaque or presentation case.

(2) A spot marker gun which expels a projectile that is greater than 10mm caliber.

(3) A BB device that expels a projectile, such as a BB or pellet, that is other than 6mm or 8mm caliber.

(4) A BB device that is an airsoft gun that expels a projectile, such as a BB or pellet, that is 6mm or 8mm caliber which meets the following:

(A) If the airsoft gun is configured as a handgun, in addition to the blaze orange ring on the barrel required by federal law, the airsoft gun has a trigger guard that has fluorescent coloration over the entire guard, and there is a two centimeter wide adhesive band around the circumference of the protruding pistol grip that has fluorescent coloration.

(B) If the airsoft gun is configured as a rifle or long gun, in addition to the blaze orange ring on the barrel required by federal law, the airsoft gun has a trigger guard that has fluorescent coloration over the entire guard, and there is a two centimeter wide adhesive band with fluorescent coloring around the circumference of any two of the following:

(i) The protruding pistol grip.

(ii) The buttstock.

(iii) A protruding ammunition magazine or clip.

(5) A device where the entire exterior surface of the device is white, bright red, bright orange, bright yellow, bright green, bright blue, bright pink, or bright purple, either singly or as the predominant color in combination with other colors in any pattern, or where the entire device is constructed of transparent or translucent materials which permits unmistakable observation of the device’s complete contents.

(c) The adhesive bands described in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) shall be applied in a manner not intended for removal, and shall be in place on the airsoft gun prior to sale to a customer.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2016, Ch. 198, Sec. 1. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2017.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “immediate family member” means either of the following relationships:

(a) Parent and child.

(b) Grandparent and grandchild.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 711, Sec. 6. (SB 1080) Effective January 1, 2011. Operative January 1, 2012, by Sec. 10 of Ch. 711.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Section 31815 and in Division 6 (commencing with Section 26500) of Title 4, “infrequent” means both of the following are true:

(1) The person conducts less than six transactions per calendar year.

(2) The person sells, leases, or transfers no more than 50 total firearms per calendar year.

(b) As used in this section, “transaction” means a single sale, lease, or transfer of any number of firearms.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 738, Sec. 5. (SB 376) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “large-capacity magazine” means any ammunition feeding device with the capacity to accept more than 10 rounds, but shall not be construed to include any of the following:

(a) A feeding device that has been permanently altered so that it cannot accommodate more than 10 rounds.

(b) A .22 caliber tube ammunition feeding device.

(c) A tubular magazine that is contained in a lever-action firearm.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in Sections 25105, 25135, and 25145, “authorized user” means an individual who is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing, receiving, owning, or purchasing a firearm and who meets either of the following requirements:

(a) The individual is the lawful owner of the firearm.

(b) The individual has been lawfully authorized by the lawful owner of the firearm to access, possess, and use the firearm.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 542, Sec. 1. (SB 53) Effective January 1, 2025.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Section 25400, “lawful possession of the firearm” means that the person who has possession or custody of the firearm either lawfully owns the firearm or has the permission of the lawful owner or a person who otherwise has apparent authority to possess or have custody of the firearm. A person who takes a firearm without the permission of the lawful owner or without the permission of a person who has lawful custody of the firearm does not have lawful possession of the firearm.

(b) As used in Article 2 (commencing with Section 25850), Article 3 (commencing with Section 25900), and Article 4 (commencing with Section 26000) of Chapter 3 of Division 5 of Title 4, Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 26350) of Division 5 of Title 4, and Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 26400) of Division 5 of Title 4, “lawful possession of the firearm” means that the person who has possession or custody of the firearm either lawfully acquired and lawfully owns the firearm or has the permission of the lawful owner or person who otherwise has apparent authority to possess or have custody of the firearm. A person who takes a firearm without the permission of the lawful owner or without the permission of a person who has lawful custody of the firearm does not have lawful possession of the firearm.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 700, Sec. 6. (AB 1527) Effective January 1, 2013.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, a “leaded cane” means a staff, crutch, stick, rod, pole, or similar device, unnaturally weighted with lead.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “less lethal ammunition” means any ammunition that satisfies both of the following requirements:

(a) It is designed to be used in any less lethal weapon or any other kind of weapon (including, but not limited to, any firearm, pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle, or spring, compressed air, or compressed gas weapon).

(b) When used in a less lethal weapon or other weapon, it is designed to immobilize, incapacitate, or stun a human being through the infliction of any less than lethal impairment of physical condition, function, or senses, including physical pain or discomfort.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part:

(a) “Less lethal weapon” means any device that is designed to or that has been converted to expel or propel less lethal ammunition by any action, mechanism, or process for the purpose of incapacitating, immobilizing, or stunning a human being through the infliction of any less than lethal impairment of physical condition, function, or senses, including physical pain or discomfort. It is not necessary that a weapon leave any lasting or permanent incapacitation, discomfort, pain, or other injury or disability in order to qualify as a less lethal weapon.

(b) Less lethal weapon includes the frame or receiver of any weapon described in subdivision (a), but does not include any of the following unless the part or weapon has been converted as described in subdivision (a):

(1) Pistol, revolver, or firearm.

(2) Machinegun.

(3) Rifle or shotgun using fixed ammunition consisting of standard primer and powder and not capable of being concealed upon the person.

(4) A pistol, rifle, or shotgun that is a firearm having a barrel less than 0.18 inches in diameter and that is designed to expel a projectile by any mechanical means or by compressed air or gas.

(5) When used as designed or intended by the manufacturer, any weapon that is commonly regarded as a toy gun, and that as a toy gun is incapable of inflicting any impairment of physical condition, function, or senses.

(6) A destructive device.

(7) A tear gas weapon.

(8) A bow or crossbow designed to shoot arrows.

(9) A device commonly known as a slingshot.

(10) A device designed for the firing of stud cartridges, explosive rivets, or similar industrial ammunition.

(11) A device designed for signaling, illumination, or safety.

(12) An assault weapon.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Article 5 (commencing with Section 30900) and Article 7 (commencing with Section 31050) of Chapter 2 of Division 10 of Title 4, “licensed gun dealer” means a person who is licensed pursuant to Sections 26700 to 26915, inclusive, and who has a permit to sell assault weapons or .50 BMG rifles pursuant to Section 31005.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “licensed gun show producer” means a person who has been issued a certificate of eligibility by the Department of Justice pursuant to Section 27200. No regulations shall be required to implement this section.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Article 1 (commencing with Section 26700) and Article 2 (commencing with Section 26800) of Chapter 2 of Division 6 of Title 4, “licensed premises,” “licensee’s business premises,” or “licensee’s place of business” means the building designated in the license.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) For purposes of the provisions listed in Section 16580, use of the term “licensee” is governed by Section 26700.

(b) For purposes of Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29030) of Division 7 of Title 4, use of the term “licensee” is governed by Section 29030.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “licensee’s business premises” is governed by Section 16810.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “licensee’s place of business” is governed by Section 16810.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, a “lipstick case knife” means a knife enclosed within and made an integral part of a lipstick case.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Section 25800, a firearm shall be deemed to be “loaded” whenever both the firearm and the unexpended ammunition capable of being discharged from the firearm are in the immediate possession of the same person.

(b) As used in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 25100) of Division 4 of Title 4, in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (6) of subdivision (c) of Section 25400, and in Sections 25850 to 26055, inclusive,

(1) A firearm shall be deemed to be “loaded” when there is an unexpended cartridge or shell, consisting of a case that holds a charge of powder and a bullet or shot, in, or attached in any manner to, the firearm, including, but not limited to, in the firing chamber, magazine, or clip thereof attached to the firearm.

(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), a muzzle-loader firearm shall be deemed to be loaded when it is capped or primed and has a powder charge and ball or shot in the barrel or cylinder.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “locked container” means a secure container that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, keylock, combination lock, or similar locking device. The term “locked container” does not include the utility or glove compartment of a motor vehicle.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 5. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 16850, 25105, and 25205, “locking device” means a device that is designed to prevent a firearm from functioning and, when applied to the firearm, renders the firearm inoperable.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Section 26860, “long gun” means any firearm that is not a handgun or a machinegun.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 761, Sec. 2. (SB 683) Effective January 1, 2014.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “long-gun safe” means a locking container designed to fully contain and secure a rifle or shotgun, which has a locking system consisting of either a mechanical combination lock or an electronic combination lock that has at least 1,000 possible unique combinations consisting of a minimum of three numbers, letters, or symbols per combination, and is not listed on the roster maintained pursuant to Section 23655.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “machinegun” means any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can readily be restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.

(b) The term “machinegun” also includes the frame or receiver of any weapon described in subdivision (a), any part designed and intended solely and exclusively, or combination of parts designed and intended, for use in converting a weapon into a machinegun, and any combination of parts from which a machinegun can be assembled if those parts are in the possession or under the control of a person.

(c) The term “machinegun” also includes any weapon deemed by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as readily convertible to a machinegun under Chapter 53 (commencing with Section 5801) of Title 26 of the United States Code.

(d) The term “machinegun” also includes any machinegun-convertible pistol equipped with a pistol converter, as defined in Section 17015.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 572, Sec. 2. (AB 1127) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “machinegun-convertible pistol” means any semiautomatic pistol with a cruciform trigger bar that can be readily converted by hand or with common household tools, as defined in Section 4082 of Title 11 of the California Code of Regulations, into a machinegun by the installation or attachment of a pistol converter as a replacement for the slide’s backplate without any additional engineering, machining, or modification of the pistol’s trigger mechanism.

(b) A machinegun-convertible pistol does not include a hammer-fired semiautomatic pistol or striker-fired semiautomatic pistol lacking a cruciform trigger bar, which instead has a trigger bar that is shielded from interference by a pistol converter.

(c) A polymer notch or other piece of polymer molded into the rear of the pistol frame does not prevent ready conversion into a machinegun and will not prevent a pistol from qualifying under this definition.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 572, Sec. 3. (AB 1127) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Section 30515, “magazine” means any ammunition feeding device.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “magazine disconnect mechanism” means a mechanism that prevents a semiautomatic pistol that has a detachable magazine from operating to strike the primer of ammunition in the firing chamber when a detachable magazine is not inserted in the semiautomatic pistol.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “metal knuckles” means any device or instrument made wholly or partially of metal that is worn for purposes of offense or defense in or on the hand and that either protects the wearer’s hand while striking a blow or increases the force of impact from the blow or injury to the individual receiving the blow. The metal contained in the device may help support the hand or fist, provide a shield to protect it, or consist of projections or studs which would contact the individual receiving a blow.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, a “multiburst trigger activator” means either of the following:

(1) A device designed or redesigned to be attached to, built into, or used in conjunction with, a semiautomatic firearm, which allows the firearm to discharge two or more shots in a burst by activating the device.

(2) A manual or power-driven trigger activating device constructed and designed so that when attached to, built into, or used in conjunction with, a semiautomatic firearm it increases the rate of fire of that firearm.

(b) “Multiburst trigger activator” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following devices:

(1) A device that uses a spring, piston, or similar mechanism to push back against the recoil of a firearm, thereby moving the firearm in a back-and-forth motion and facilitating the rapid reset and activation of the trigger by a stationary finger. These devices are commonly known as bump stocks, bump fire stocks, or bump fire stock attachments.

(2) A device placed within the trigger guard of a firearm that uses a spring to push back against the recoil of the firearm causing the finger in the trigger guard to move back and forth and rapidly activate the trigger. These devices are commonly known as burst triggers.

(3) A mechanical device that activates the trigger of the firearm in rapid succession by turning a crank. These devices are commonly known as trigger cranks, gat cranks, gat triggers, or trigger actuators.

(4) Any aftermarket trigger or trigger system that, if installed, allows more than one round to be fired with a single depression of the trigger.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 795, Sec. 1. (SB 1346) Effective January 1, 2019.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “nunchaku” means an instrument consisting of two or more sticks, clubs, bars, or rods to be used as handles, connected by a rope, cord, wire, or chain, in the design of a weapon used in connection with the practice of a system of self-defense such as karate.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 26350) of Division 5 of Title 4, a handgun shall be deemed to be carried openly or exposed if the handgun is not carried concealed within the meaning of Section 25400.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 725, Sec. 7. (AB 144) Effective January 1, 2012.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in Article 1 (commencing with Section 26500) of Chapter 1 of Division 6 of Title 4, “operation of law” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:

(a) The executor, personal representative, or administrator of an estate, if the estate includes a firearm.

(b) A secured creditor or an agent or employee of a secured creditor when a firearm is possessed as collateral for, or as a result of, a default under a security agreement under the Commercial Code.

(c) A levying officer, as defined in Section 481.140, 511.060, or 680.260 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(d) A receiver performing the functions of a receiver, if the receivership estate includes a firearm.

(e) A trustee in bankruptcy performing the duties of a trustee, if the bankruptcy estate includes a firearm.

(f) An assignee for the benefit of creditors performing the functions of an assignee, if the assignment includes a firearm.

(g) A transmutation of property between spouses pursuant to Section 850 of the Family Code.

(h) A firearm received by the family of a police officer or deputy sheriff from a local agency pursuant to Section 50081 of the Government Code.

(i) The transfer of a firearm by a law enforcement agency to the person who found the firearm where the delivery is to the person as the finder of the firearm pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 2080) of Chapter 4 of Title 6 of Part 4 of Division 3 of the Civil Code.

(j) The trustee of a trust that includes a firearm and that was part of a will that created the trust.

(k) A person acting pursuant to the person’s power of attorney in accordance with Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4000) of the Probate Code.

(l) A limited or general conservator appointed by a court pursuant to the Probate Code or Welfare and Institutions Code.

(m) A guardian ad litem appointed by a court pursuant to Section 372 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(n) The trustee of a trust that includes a firearm that is under court supervision.

(o) A special administrator appointed by a court pursuant to Section 8540 of the Probate Code.

(p) A guardian appointed by a court pursuant to Section 1500 of the Probate Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 110, Sec. 1. (AB 1292) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “passenger’s or driver’s area” means that part of a motor vehicle which is designed to carry the driver and passengers, including any interior compartment or space therein.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in Sections 16790, 17505, and 30600, “person” means an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, association, or any other group or entity, regardless of how it was created.

(b) As used in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 30500) of Division 10 of Title 4, except for Section 30600, “person” means an individual.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 71, Sec. 134. (SB 1304) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “person licensed pursuant to Sections 26700 to 26915, inclusive” is governed by Section 26700.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in any provision listed in subdivision (a) of Section 16585, the phrase “a person taking title or possession of a firearm by operation of law” includes, but is not limited to, any of the following instances in which an individual receives title to, or possession of, a firearm:

(a) The executor, personal representative, or administrator of an estate, if the estate includes a firearm.

(b) A secured creditor or an agent or employee of a secured creditor when the firearm is possessed as collateral for, or as a result of, a default under a security agreement under the Commercial Code.

(c) A levying officer, as defined in Section 481.140, 511.060, or 680.260 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(d) A receiver performing the functions of a receiver, if the receivership estate includes a firearm.

(e) A trustee in bankruptcy performing the duties of a trustee, if the bankruptcy estate includes a firearm.

(f) An assignee for the benefit of creditors performing the functions of an assignee, if the assignment includes a firearm.

(g) A transmutation of property consisting of a firearm pursuant to Section 850 of the Family Code.

(h) A firearm passing to a surviving spouse pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 13500) of Part 2 of Division 8 of the Probate Code.

(i) A firearm received by the family of a police officer or deputy sheriff from a local agency pursuant to Section 50081 of the Government Code.

(j) The transfer of a firearm by a law enforcement agency to the person who found the firearm where the delivery is to the person as the finder of the firearm pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 2080) of Chapter 4 of Title 6 of Part 4 of Division 3 of the Civil Code.

(k) The trustee of a trust that includes a firearm and that was part of a will that created the trust.

(l) A firearm passed to a decedent’s successor pursuant to Part 1 (commencing with Section 13000) of Division 8 of the Probate Code.

(m) A person acting pursuant to the person’s power of attorney in accordance with Division 4.5 (commencing with Section 4000) of the Probate Code.

(n) A limited or general conservator appointed by a court pursuant to the Probate Code or Welfare and Institutions Code.

(o) A guardian ad litem appointed by a court pursuant to Section 372 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(p) The trustee of a trust that includes a firearm that is under court supervision.

(q) The trustee of a trust that is not referenced in subdivisions (k) or (p).

(r) A special administrator appointed by a court pursuant to Section 8540 of the Probate Code.

(s) A guardian appointed by a court pursuant to Section 1500 of the Probate Code.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 110, Sec. 2. (AB 1292) Effective January 1, 2020.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, until January 1, 2014, any reference to the term “personal firearm importer” shall be deemed to mean “personal handgun importer” and, on and after January 1, 2014, any reference to the term “personal handgun importer” shall be deemed to mean “personal firearm importer.” A “personal handgun importer,” until January 1, 2014, and commencing January 1, 2014, a “personal firearm importer” means an individual who meets all of the following criteria:

(1) The individual is not a person licensed pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 26700) and Article 2 (commencing with Section 26800) of Chapter 2 of Division 6 of Title 4.

(2) The individual is not a licensed manufacturer of firearms pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code.

(3) The individual is not a licensed importer of firearms pursuant to Chapter 44 (commencing with Section 921) of Title 18 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto.

(4) The individual is the owner of a firearm.

(5) The individual acquired that firearm outside of California.

(6) The individual moved into this state on or after January 1, 1998, in the case of a handgun, or in the case of a firearm that is not a handgun, on or after January 1, 2014, as a resident of this state.

(7) The individual intends to possess that handgun within this state on or after January 1, 1998, or in the case of a firearm that is not a handgun, he or she intends to possess that firearm within this state on or after January 1, 2014.

(8) The firearm was not delivered to the individual by a person licensed pursuant to Article 1 (commencing with Section 26700) and Article 2 (commencing with Section 26800) of Chapter 2 of Division 6 of Title 4, who delivered that firearm following the procedures set forth in Section 27540 and Article 1 (commencing with Section 26700) and Article 2 (commencing with Section 26800) of Chapter 2 of Division 6 of Title 4.

(9) The individual, while a resident of this state, had not previously reported ownership of that firearm to the Department of Justice in a manner prescribed by the department that included information concerning the individual and a description of the firearm.

(10) The firearm is not a firearm that is prohibited by any provision listed in Section 16590.

(11) The firearm is not an assault weapon.

(12) The firearm is not a machinegun.

(13) The person is 18 years of age or older.

(14) The firearm is not a .50 BMG rifle.

(15) The firearm is not a destructive device.

(b) For purposes of paragraph (6) of subdivision (a):

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), residency shall be determined in the same manner as is the case for establishing residency pursuant to Section 12505 of the Vehicle Code.

(2) In the case of a member of the Armed Forces of the United States, residency shall be deemed to be established when the individual was discharged from active service in this state.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2011, Ch. 745, Sec. 3. (AB 809) Effective January 1, 2012.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “pistol” is governed by Section 16530.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: “Pistol converter” means any device or instrument that when installed in or attached to the rear of the slide of a semiautomatic pistol, replaces the backplate, and interferes with the trigger mechanism and thereby enables the pistol to shoot automatically more than one shot by a single function of the trigger. A pistol converter includes, but is not limited to, a pistol converter manufactured using a three-dimensional printer, as defined in Section 29185.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 572, Sec. 4. (AB 1127) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: For purposes of this part, a city or county may be considered an applicant’s “principal place of employment or business” only if the applicant is physically present in the jurisdiction during a substantial part of the applicant’s working hours for purposes of that employment or business.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “prohibited area” means any place where it is unlawful to discharge a weapon.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 26350) of Division 5 of Title 4, “public place” has the same meaning as in Section 25850.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2011, Ch. 725, Sec. 8. (AB 144) Effective January 1, 2012.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) (1) As used in Sections 25135 and 25145, “residence” means a structure intended or used for human habitation, including, but not limited to, houses, condominiums, rooms, motels, hotels, time-shares, and recreational or other vehicles where human habitation occurs.

(2) As used in Sections 27881, 27882, and 27883, “residence” means a structure intended or used for human habitation, including, but not limited to, houses, condominiums, rooms, motels, hotels, and time-shares, but does not include recreational vehicles or other vehicles where human habitation occurs.

(b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2026.

history: (History: Repealed (in Sec. 2) and added by Stats. 2024, Ch. 542, Sec. 3. (SB 53) Effective January 1, 2025. Operative January 1, 2026, by its own provisions.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “responsible adult” means a person at least 21 years of age who is not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing, receiving, owning, or purchasing a firearm.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 711, Sec. 6. (SB 1080) Effective January 1, 2011. Operative January 1, 2012, by Sec. 10 of Ch. 711.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “revolver” is governed by Section 16530.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 16530, 16640, 16650, 16660, 16870, and 17170, Sections 17720 to 17730, inclusive, Section 17740, subdivision (f) of Section 27555, Article 2 (commencing with Section 30300) of Chapter 1 of Division 10 of Title 4, and Article 1 (commencing with Section 33210) of Chapter 8 of Division 10 of Title 4, “rifle” means a weapon designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder and designed or redesigned and made or remade to use the energy of the explosive in a fixed cartridge to fire only a single projectile through a rifled bore for each single pull of the trigger.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in Section 26890, “secure facility” means a building that meets all of the following specifications:

(a) All perimeter doorways shall meet one of the following:

(1) A windowless steel security door equipped with both a dead bolt and a doorknob lock.

(2) A windowed metal door that is equipped with both a dead bolt and a doorknob lock. If the window has an opening of five inches or more measured in any direction, the window shall be covered with steel bars of at least one-half of an inch diameter or metal grating of at least nine gauge affixed to the exterior or interior of the door.

(3) A metal grate that is padlocked and affixed to the licensee’s premises independent of the door and doorframe.

(4) (A) A windowed or windowless steel door that is equipped with panic hardware that operates a multipoint lock that bolts into the interior frame of the door.

(B) The door shall have a latch guard over the bolt closest to the primary locking bolt to protect it from prying or cutting.

(C) If the door is windowed and the window has an opening of five inches or more measured in any direction, the window shall be covered with steel bars of at least one-half of an inch diameter or metal grating of at least nine gauge affixed to the exterior or interior of the door.

(b) All windows are covered with steel bars.

(c) Heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and service openings are secured with steel bars, metal grating, or an alarm system.

(d) Any metal grates have spaces no larger than six inches wide measured in any direction.

(e) Any metal screens have spaces no larger than three inches wide measured in any direction.

(f) All steel bars shall be no further than six inches apart.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 40, Sec. 1. (AB 584) Effective January 1, 2026.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: For purposes of Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 29030) of Division 7 of Title 4, use of the term “secure facility” is governed by Sections 29141 and 29142.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “Security Exemplar” has the same meaning as in Section 922 of Title 18 of the United States Code.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 16900 and 31910, “semiautomatic pistol” means a pistol with an operating mode that uses the energy of the explosive in a fixed cartridge to extract a fired cartridge and chamber a fresh cartridge with each single pull of the trigger.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, a “shobi-zue” means a staff, crutch, stick, rod, or pole concealing a knife or blade within it, which may be exposed by a flip of the wrist or by a mechanical action.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “short-barreled rifle” means any of the following:

(a) A rifle having a barrel or barrels of less than 16 inches in length.

(b) A rifle with an overall length of less than 26 inches.

(c) Any weapon made from a rifle (whether by alteration, modification, or otherwise) if that weapon, as modified, has an overall length of less than 26 inches or a barrel or barrels of less than 16 inches in length.

(d) Any device that may be readily restored to fire a fixed cartridge which, when so restored, is a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive.

(e) Any part, or combination of parts, designed and intended to convert a device into a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive, or any combination of parts from which a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive, may be readily assembled if those parts are in the possession or under the control of the same person.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 6. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “short-barreled shotgun” means any of the following:

(a) A firearm that is designed or redesigned to fire a fixed shotgun shell and has a barrel or barrels of less than 18 inches in length.

(b) A firearm that has an overall length of less than 26 inches and that is designed or redesigned to fire a fixed shotgun shell.

(c) Any weapon made from a shotgun (whether by alteration, modification, or otherwise) if that weapon, as modified, has an overall length of less than 26 inches or a barrel or barrels of less than 18 inches in length.

(d) Any device that may be readily restored to fire a fixed shotgun shell which, when so restored, is a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive.

(e) Any part, or combination of parts, designed and intended to convert a device into a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive, or any combination of parts from which a device defined in subdivisions (a) to (c), inclusive, can be readily assembled if those parts are in the possession or under the control of the same person.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 7. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Sections 16530, 16640, 16870, and 17180, Sections 17720 to 17730, inclusive, Section 17740, Section 30215, and Article 1 (commencing with Section 33210) of Chapter 8 of Division 10 of Title 4, “shotgun” means a weapon designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder and designed or redesigned and made or remade to use the energy of the explosive in a fixed shotgun shell to fire through a smooth bore either a number of projectiles (ball shot) or a single projectile for each pull of the trigger.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 103, Sec. 8. (AB 1798) Effective January 1, 2015.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, a “shuriken” means any instrument, without handles, consisting of a metal plate having three or more radiating points with one or more sharp edges and designed in the shape of a polygon, trefoil, cross, star, diamond, or other geometric shape, for use as a weapon for throwing.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Chapter 9 (commencing with Section 33410) of Division 10 of Title 4, “silencer” means any device or attachment of any kind designed, used, or intended for use in silencing, diminishing, or muffling the report of a firearm. The term “silencer” also includes any combination of parts, designed or redesigned, and intended for use in assembling a silencer or fabricating a silencer and any part intended only for use in assembly or fabrication of a silencer.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the term “SKS rifle” is governed by Section 30710.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “stun gun” means any item, except a less lethal weapon, used or intended to be used as either an offensive or defensive weapon that is capable of temporarily immobilizing a person by the infliction of an electrical charge.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “switchblade knife” means a knife having the appearance of a pocketknife and includes a spring-blade knife, snap-blade knife, gravity knife, or any other similar type knife, the blade or blades of which are two or more inches in length and which can be released automatically by a flick of a button, pressure on the handle, flip of the wrist or other mechanical device, or is released by the weight of the blade or by any type of mechanism whatsoever. “Switchblade knife” does not include a knife that opens with one hand utilizing thumb pressure applied solely to the blade of the knife or a thumb stud attached to the blade, provided that the knife has a detent or other mechanism that provides resistance that must be overcome in opening the blade, or that biases the blade back toward its closed position.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) As used in this part, “tear gas” applies to and includes any liquid, gaseous or solid substance intended to produce temporary physical discomfort or permanent injury through being vaporized or otherwise dispersed in the air.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), “tear gas” does not apply to, and does not include, any substance registered as an economic poison as provided in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 12751) of Division 7 of the Food and Agricultural Code, provided that the substance is not intended to be used to produce discomfort or injury to human beings.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “tear gas weapon” applies to and includes:

(a) Any shell, cartridge, or bomb capable of being discharged or exploded, when the discharge or explosion will cause or permit the release or emission of tear gas.

(b) Any revolver, pistol, fountain pen gun, billy, or other form of device, portable or fixed, intended for the projection or release of tear gas, except those regularly manufactured and sold for use with firearm ammunition.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, an “unconventional pistol” means a firearm with both of the following characteristics:

(a) It does not have a rifled bore.

(b) It has a barrel or barrels of less than 18 inches in length or has an overall length of less than 26 inches.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “undetectable firearm” means any weapon that meets either of the following requirements:

(a) After removal of grips, stocks, and magazines, the weapon is not as detectable as the Security Exemplar, by a walk-through metal detector calibrated and operated to detect the Security Exemplar.

(b) Any major component of the weapon, as defined in Section 922 of Title 18 of the United States Code, when subjected to inspection by the types of X-ray machines commonly used at airports, does not generate an image that accurately depicts the shape of the component. Barium sulfate or other compounds may be used in the fabrication of the component.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
As used in this part, “undetectable knife” means any knife or other instrument, with or without a handguard, that satisfies all of the following requirements:

(a) It is capable of ready use as a stabbing weapon that may inflict great bodily injury or death.

(b) It is commercially manufactured to be used as a weapon.

(c) It is not detectable by a metal detector or magnetometer, either handheld or otherwise, which is set at standard calibration.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
(a) For purposes of Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 26350) of Division 5 of Title 4, a handgun shall be deemed “unloaded” if it is not “loaded” within the meaning of subdivision (b) of Section 16840.

(b) For purposes of Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 26400) of Division 5 of Title 4, a firearm that is not a handgun shall be deemed “unloaded” if it is not “loaded” within the meaning of subdivision (b) of Section 16840.

history: (History: Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 700, Sec. 8. (AB 1527) Effective January 1, 2013.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: Use of the phrase “unsafe handgun” is governed by Section 31910.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “used firearm” means a firearm that has been sold previously at retail and is more than three years old.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text:
“Valid state or federal serial number or mark of identification” means either of the following:

(a) A serial number that has been imprinted by a federal licensee authorized to serialize firearms in accordance with federal law, or that has been assigned to a firearm pursuant to Chapter 53 of Title 26 of the United States Code and the regulations issued pursuant thereto.

(b) A serial number or mark of identification issued by the California Department of Justice pursuant to Section 23910 or 29180.

history: (History: Added by Stats. 2022, Ch. 76, Sec. 9. (AB 1621) Effective June 30, 2022.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in Articles 2 through 5 of Chapter 1 of Division 10 of Title 4, “vendor” means an ammunition vendor.

history: (History: Amended November 8, 2016, by initiative Proposition 63, Sec. 8.4.)

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: For purposes of Section 31360 only, “violent felony” refers to the specific crimes listed in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5, and to crimes defined under the applicable laws of the United States or any other state, government, or country that are reasonably equivalent to the crimes listed in subdivision (c) of Section 667.5.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS


text: As used in this part, “wallet gun” means any firearm mounted or enclosed in a case, resembling a wallet, designed to be or capable of being carried in a pocket or purse, if the firearm may be fired while mounted or enclosed in the case.

title: 1. PRELIMINARY PROVISIONS