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Florida Criminal Offense

Open Carrying of Weapons

Open carrying of a firearm or electric weapon or device when not otherwise authorized by law.

MisdemeanorSecond Degree

Florida Statute

§ 790.053

Open carrying of weapons

Quick Summary

Open carry is generally prohibited, subject to statutory exceptions. A brief ordinary-sight display of an otherwise lawfully concealed firearm is separately addressed by the statute.

Classification Matrix

Use this as a quick classification reference. Specific facts, statutory circumstances, and charging allegations may affect the applicable result.

Open Carrying

F.S. § 790.053(3)

MisdemeanorSecond Degree

Open carrying of a firearm or electric weapon or device, outside a statutory authorization.

Elements of the Offense

  1. Element 1

    The defendant openly carried a firearm or electric weapon or device on or about the defendant's person.

    Plain language: The item was carried openly rather than concealed.

  2. Element 2

    The conduct was not otherwise provided by law or within a statutory exception.

    Plain language: Confirm the applicable authorization or exception before charging.

Additional Notes

Quick Reference

A covered firearm or electric weapon openly carried is generally a second-degree misdemeanor; review statutory authorizations and the brief-display provision.