Cruising – Can I Keep My Gun in My Car?

CRUISING – A Favorite Florida Past Time

With major cruise lines sailing weekly from Port Canaveral, Miami, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale and others, it is no wonder cruising is a favorite past time of Floridians.  Speaking on gun law throughout the state, we meet many Floridians who have no idea about the restrictions on firearm possession in Seaports.

Florida Law Allows Possession Of A Firearm in Your Car

Anyone who can lawfully possess a firearm can carry a loaded firearm in their vehicle under Florida law.  Florida Statute 790.25(5) reads in relevant part:

(5) POSSESSION IN PRIVATE CONVEYANCE.—Notwithstanding subsection (2), it is lawful and is not a violation of s. 790.01 for a person 18 years of age or older to possess a concealed firearm or other weapon for self-defense or other lawful purpose within the interior of a private conveyance, without a license, if the firearm or other weapon is securely encased or is otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use. 

Many Floridians keep a loaded firearm in their glove compartment or center console of their vehicle.  They do not give their firearm a second thought when heading out on a cruise.  They pile their family and the luggage in the car and head to the port.

Seaports are Restricted

Because you can have a firearm in your car, does not mean you can possess a firearm in a seaport.  Florida law specifically states that you cannot have a firearm in your car or possess a firearm in the restricted areas of a seaport.  Florida Statute 311.12 prohibits the possession of a firearm in all restricted areas of a seaport.