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Are Stun Guns Legal in California? What You Need to Know

Are Stun Guns Legal in California? What You Need to Know

26th Jul 2025

Many people ask, are stun guns legal in California, especially when looking for personal self-defense options. California law does allow stun guns, but with specific rules that must be followed. Understanding who can carry one and where it’s allowed is important before buying.

Legal use depends on age, criminal history, and proper handling. Knowing these basics helps you stay protected while staying within the law.

Keynotes 

  1. Are stun guns legal in california? yes for personal self-defense when used responsibly and within state law.
  2. Adults 18+ may carry a stun gun, while ages 16–17 require written parental or guardian consent.
  3. Carrying stun guns is restricted in certain locations such as schools, courthouses, and secure buildings.
  4. Using a stun gun for intimidation or non-defensive purposes can lead to serious legal penalties.
  5. Knowing proper storage, transport, and usage rules helps ensure safe and lawful ownership.

Are Stun Guns Legal in California? (Quick Overview)

Are stun guns legal in california? Yes, stun guns are legal in California for personal self-defense, but only under specific conditions. The law allows ownership and carry for most adults, provided the device is used responsibly and within legal limits.

Understanding these basics helps avoid violations while staying protected.

At a glance:

  • Legal for self-defense use
  • Subject to age and eligibility rules
  • Misuse can lead to penalties

Who Can Legally Carry a Stun Gun in California

Not everyone is eligible. California places limits to ensure safe, lawful use.

Eligibility rules include:

  • Must be 18+ (or 16–17 with written parental consent)
  • No felony convictions or assault-related restrictions
  • Device must be for personal defense only

Where Stun Guns Are Restricted

Even when legal to own, some places prohibit carry. Knowing location rules matters and are stun guns legal in california.

Common restrictions:

  • Schools and certain government buildings
  • Secure areas like courthouses or airports
  • Private properties that ban weapons

Safe Use, Transport, and Compliance

Legal ownership also means safe handling and transport. Improper use can quickly become illegal.

Best practices:

  • Carry discreetly and responsibly
  • Never use for intimidation or pranks
  • Follow transport rules, especially when traveling

What California Law Says About Stun Gun Legal 

Yes, stun gun’s are legal in California, but only for specific individuals who meet state eligibility criteria. The rules are defined under California Penal Code § 22610.

Who Can Legally Carry a Stun Gun in California:

  • Adults aged 18 and above
  • Not having been found guilty of a crime
  • People who don't use drugs
  • People who have never used a stun gun or been attacked before
  • 16- and 17-year-olds can do it with their parents or legal guardian's approval.

Who Cannot Legally Carry a Stun Gun:

  • Even if they have permission, teens and young adults under 16 can't carry stun guns.
  • People who have committed crimes or have a history of criminality
  • Persons who are dependant on drugs
  • Anyone who has been accused of assault or using a stun gun in the wrong way in the past

Self-Defense Support:

In California, anyone can own a stun gun as long as they match the standards. This is because the law lets people use them for self-defence.

If you fall into one of the groups named, you can lawfully buy, carry, or own one.

CanYou Carry Stun Gun Boarding in California? TSA Rules Explained

Stun guns are legal in California, but TSA restrictions come first when you get on an aircraft. Tourists should know this:

TSA Regulations at a Glance:

  • Even though stun guns are legal in California, you can't bring them in your carry-on bag.
  • You can put stun guns in your checked luggage, but only in some cases.

Conditions to Carry a Stun Gun in Checked Baggage:

  • When you check in, you must say that you can bring a stun gun in your checked luggage.
  • Must be made unusable (for example, by turning on the safety lock or cutting off the power).
  • Check what kind of battery it is, especially if it has lithium batteries, which can only do so much.
  • To avoid accidentally discharging, make sure the safety lock is on.

Important Note:

This clear division between TSA (federal law) and state rules is vital for travelers wondering, canyou carry stun gun boarding in California.

When it comes to airports, federal law is more important than state law. This implies that TSA guidelines are the last word.

Practical Steps if You Plan to Fly with a Stun Gun

When weighing canyou carry stun gun boarding in California, follow these steps:

  • Put the stun gun in your checked bags and throw it away.
  • Make sure it's locked and switched off so it can't be turned on by mistake.
  • Take lithium batteries out or safeguard them if you have them.
  • Let the airline or TSA person know that you are going to check your bag.
  • Keep your ID or other proof that you can carry a stun gun in California with you.

You can be confident that you are following TSA laws and travelling legally if you do these things.

Where You Still Cannot Carry, Even If Stun Gun Legal in California

Although stun gun legal in California, there are prohibited areas where carry is restricted:

  • Aside from TSA checkpoints (sterile zones), airports (Shouse Law Group)
  • Places where kids can study, like schools
  • Places to meet and government buildings
  • Safe federal buildings and courtrooms
  • On some college campuses or at bus stops

You can avoid receiving a ticket or having your pistol taken away if you know where in California you can't lawfully carry a stun gun.

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Conclusion

Are stun guns legal in california? Yes stun guns are legal in California for most adults when used strictly for personal defense. However, restrictions still apply, and misuse can lead to serious legal trouble. It’s essential to follow state laws and transport rules carefully.

Choosing legal, well-designed self-defense tools makes a difference. Staying informed ensures you protect yourself confidently and responsibly.

Disclaimer

This site is not meant to give legal advice, so please keep that in mind. It is possible that laws and TSA rules will change. Please verify with the TSA and state agencies before you fly. 

FAQs 

1.Are stun guns legal in California?
Yes, stun guns are legal for personal self-defense with certain restrictions.

2. Can anyone carry a stun gun in California?
Most adults can, but some people are prohibited under state law.

3. Can minors own a stun gun in California?
Yes, but only if they are 16 or older and have written parental consent.

4. Are stun guns allowed everywhere in California?
No, they are restricted in places like schools, courthouses, and secure buildings.