San Diego Gun Laws: What You Need to Know in 2025

If you’re a gun owner or considering purchasing a firearm in San Diego, staying informed about current laws is essential. California has some of the strictest firearm regulations in the United States, and San Diego gun laws in 2025 reflect both statewide changes and local enforcement priorities. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a long-time gun owner, or simply curious about your rights and responsibilities, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Overview of San Diego Gun Laws in 2025

San Diego gun laws in 2025 are primarily governed by California state law, but the city and county can enforce additional ordinances related to storage, transportation, and use. With increasing public attention on gun safety and responsible ownership, lawmakers continue to update regulations. It’s more important than ever to know the latest rules to stay compliant.

Key Firearm Regulations in San Diego for 2025

1. Who Can Legally Own a Gun?

To own or possess a firearm in San Diego, you must meet several basic eligibility requirements under California law:

Be at least 21 years old for handguns and 18 for long guns.
Pass a background check through the Dealer Record of Sale (DROS) system.
Have no felony convictions or certain misdemeanor offenses (especially involving violence or domestic abuse).
Not be under a current restraining order.
Complete a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) written test.

In 2025, California also continues to enforce red flag laws, which allow courts to temporarily remove firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.

2. Gun Registration and Waiting Period

All firearms purchased in San Diego must be registered with the California Department of Justice. The mandatory 10-day waiting period still applies for all purchases, regardless of the type of firearm.

Private party transfers must go through a licensed dealer, and all sales are subject to background checks—even between family members (with a few exceptions).

3. Assault Weapons and High-Capacity Magazines

Assault weapons and high-capacity magazines (those holding more than 10 rounds) remain heavily restricted in California, including in San Diego. While a federal court recently challenged the magazine ban, enforcement remains in place pending further legal proceedings.

Possession of unregistered assault weapons or illegal magazines can lead to felony charges. In 2025, the state is ramping up enforcement efforts, especially targeting illegal modifications and ghost guns (unserialized firearms).

4. Open Carry and Concealed Carry (CCW) in San Diego

California bans the open carry of firearms in public, with very limited exceptions. If you’re wondering whether you can carry a gun for personal protection, you’ll need a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit.

In San Diego County:

You must apply through the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.
As of 2025, the “good cause” requirement has been removed following Supreme Court guidance, but applicants must still complete a background check, live scan, and training course.
Permits are typically valid for two years, with renewals requiring refresher training and requalification.

Keep in mind that even with a CCW, you cannot carry firearms in schools, government buildings, airports, or private businesses that prohibit them.

5. Safe Storage Requirements

To prevent unauthorized access, especially by children or prohibited persons, California law requires safe firearm storage:

Guns must be stored in a locked container or equipped with a state-approved safety device.
Leaving a loaded firearm accessible to a child or prohibited person can result in criminal charges—even if no injury occurs.

In 2025, San Diego city ordinances require additional storage measures in households with minors, and local police departments may conduct random safety checks during investigations.

What’s New in San Diego Gun Laws for 2025?

Several changes have gone into effect or are being implemented this year:

– Mandatory Liability Insurance (Pending Legislation)

San Diego is considering a proposal similar to San Jose’s ordinance requiring gun owners to carry liability insurance to cover negligent discharge or accidents. While not yet in effect, it’s likely to become a hot topic in 2025.

– Increased Regulation of 3D-Printed Guns

To address the rise in untraceable “ghost guns,” new laws restrict the manufacturing of 3D-printed firearms unless:

The weapon is serialized and registered.
The manufacturer holds a valid federal firearms license.

Violating these rules can result in felony charges.

– Microstamping Requirement for Handguns

All new semi-automatic handguns sold in California must comply with microstamping laws, meaning the gun imprints a unique code on the shell casing when fired. This helps law enforcement trace firearms used in crimes. In 2025, the roster of approved handguns has been updated to reflect compliance with this requirement.

Traveling With Firearms in and Out of San Diego

If you’re transporting a firearm:

It must be unloaded and locked in a container.
Ammunition should be stored separately.
Firearms must be inaccessible from the passenger compartment (in the trunk if possible).

When crossing state lines or flying, always check with the TSA and destination state’s laws, as California’s strict regulations do not apply elsewhere.

Penalties for Violating San Diego Gun Laws

Violating gun laws in California can result in:

Misdemeanor or felony charges
Confiscation of firearms
Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars
Jail or prison time
Loss of gun rights

Examples include:

Carrying a concealed weapon without a permit: Misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail
Possession of an unregistered assault weapon: Felony, up to 3 years in prison
Unlawful discharge in public: Felony, up to 7 years

These penalties underscore the importance of knowing the law.

Gun Laws and Mental Health: The Red Flag Law

Under California’s Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO), family members, roommates, or law enforcement can request a court order to temporarily remove firearms from someone exhibiting dangerous behavior. In 2025, San Diego has expanded training to ensure police can act quickly and lawfully in GVRO cases. If you’re facing a GVRO or believe your rights are being violated, consulting a skilled Criminal Defense Attorney San Diego can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Final Thoughts

San Diego gun laws in 2025 are designed to balance the rights of lawful gun owners with the safety of the public. With new technologies, rising concerns over gun violence, and evolving legal standards, it’s more important than ever to stay informed and compliant.

Whether you already own a gun or are thinking about getting one, take the time to: