Florida has always been a top destination for Canadian and northern U.S. snowbirds. Sunshine, beaches, golf courses — and now, new gun laws that might surprise seasonal residents. Even if you don’t plan on buying a firearm, it’s smart to understand the landscape, because liability can reach far beyond the gun owner.
Florida’s Current Carry Laws
- Concealed Carry: Since July 1, 2023, Florida allows “permitless concealed carry.” Anyone 21+ who is legally allowed to own a firearm can carry one concealed without a license.
- Open Carry: In September 2025, a Florida court struck down the long-standing ban on open carry. The Attorney General has directed police not to enforce the ban, meaning visible carry (holstered handgun on the hip, for example) is now lawful statewide.
- Restrictions Still Apply: Firearms are still prohibited in schools, courthouses, bars, government meetings, and airports, among other places. Private property owners can also forbid guns on their premises.
Snowbird Residency and Purchases
If you have a Florida driver’s license and live in Florida for six months, you are treated as a Florida resident for gun laws.
- You can legally buy firearms in Florida during your time there.
- You can legally carry (concealed without a permit or open under the new ruling) as long as you’re otherwise eligible (no felony convictions, not under restraining order, etc.).
- Handgun sales require a 3-day waiting period, unless you have a concealed weapons license. Long guns generally don’t.
- Important: Canadian law strictly limits bringing guns across the border. If you purchase in Florida, the firearm should remain there.
So you thought car accidents were your only Liability Considerations?
Even if you never touch a firearm, you could be exposed to liability:
- Property Liability: If someone brings a gun onto your Florida condo or rental and misuses it, you could face civil exposure under Florida’s premises liability laws.
- Insurance Gaps: Standard homeowners’ or condo insurance may exclude firearm incidents. Always review your policy before renting out your property or hosting guests.
- Cross-Border Issues: A shooting in Florida could lead to lawsuits in both U.S. and Canadian courts if you’re named as a property owner or host.
- Criminal vs. Civil: Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law can shield a shooter from criminal charges, but it doesn’t always block wrongful death or negligence lawsuits.
Bottom Line for Snowbirds
Whether you plan to buy a firearm or not, the culture of gun ownership in Florida affects you as a resident, renter, or landlord. Understand where firearms can be carried, how they may appear in public under the new open carry rules, and review your insurance coverage.
👉 The takeaway: Knowledge is your best protection. Even without a gun, being aware of the rules helps you navigate liability risks while enjoying your winter in the Sunshine State.
Remember if an accident happens (any accident) give us a call. Snowbirdaccidents.com has your back.
