Firearm Laws/Relinquishment
Firearm Laws in California
California has a set of laws that regulate the ownership, possession, and use of firearms within the state. Whether you live here permanently or are visiting from out of state, it is important to understand the rules that apply to owning, purchasing, possessing, transporting, and carrying firearms within California.
Before obtaining or bringing a firearm into the state, please review the current laws and requirements. These regulations are designed to promote safety, ensure responsible ownership, and protect our communities. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines will help you stay in compliance with state and local laws and avoid unintentional violations. We encourage you to review the laws governing firearm ownership and carrying in California to ensure you are informed and compliant.
California Department of Justice Bureau of Firearms
Frequently Asked Questions for Owning, Storing and Carrying Firearms
Firearm Relinquishment
California law requires certain individuals to surrender any firearms, ammunition, and magazines they possess when they become prohibited from owning or possessing them. This may occur for a variety of reasons, including specific court orders, criminal convictions, or other disqualifying events outlined in state law. If the court issues a restraining/protective order against you, you are prohibited from possessing firearms, firearm parts (including any receiver, frame or unfinished receiver frame), and ammunition while the order is in effect. You have 24 hours from the time you received the restraining or protective order to relinquish or sell your firearms, firearm parts or ammunition, and 48 hours to provide proof of relinquishment to the court.
The relinquishment process is designed to ensure community safety while providing individuals with clear instructions on how and when to turn in their firearms. Understanding these requirements helps ensure compliance with state regulations and supports the safe handling and transfer of firearms during these situations.
Solano Superior Court Firearms Information and Forms Packet
How to Safely Turn in Firearms, Firearm Parts, and Ammunition
Resources
- How to obtain Restraining Orders |Superior Court of California | County of Solano
- Resources for people involved in a Gun Violence Restraining Order (GVRO) case | California Courts | Self Help Guide
- Resources for people involved in Domestic Violence Restraining Orders (DVRO) in California | California Courts | Self Help Guide
- Firearm related Frequently Asked Questions | State of California - Department of Justice - Office of the Attorney General