How do I find my local City/County knife laws in CA

fast14riot

fast14riot

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Oct 27, 2010
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I'm in Stockton, Ca (live within city limits, but work in unincorporated county zoning) in San Joaquin County, I know the major knife laws for the state and abide by them, but I was wondering how I could find my local city and county laws regarding knives, dirks/daggers and axes. I know there is no legislative deffinition for a sword, so it is considered just a long knife (technically) but its mainly for other categories I am interested.

I have searched the internet and have found very little info beyond the basic question and answer sites. Any help would be appreciated.


-Xander
 
Thank you for the link.

If I'm interpreting it correctly, in 9.52.010 it defines any knife over 3" as a deadly weapon, then in 9.52.020 it states it is unlawful to conceal any deadly weapon.

So, as long as I carry my fixed blades openly (not including on school or government property) I am in accordance with my city's municipal code and basically state law applies to specific types of knives (fixed blades, folding blade length, etc.) not mentioned within, correct?


-Xander
 
Ok, I've read the codes several times over so I could be confident in getting them right. The way I read them is, it is illegal to carry any item described as a "deadly weapon" in a CONCEALD manner. But the codes say nothing about carrying a "deadly weapon" openly. Nor does the law say that it is unlawful to posess any item described as a "deadly weapon". And unless the written law specifically describes an act as illegal, then it is legal to do it.

So the way I read it, it is legal to openly carry a fixed-blade of any style or size under Stocktons municipal codes (as well as under state law), and it is legal to openly carry any size of manual folding knife. Just remember that under Stockton law that it is illegal to carry a conceald folding knife if the blade is 3 inches or longer.

Of course, as always, when in doubt, consult a local criminal defense attorney.
 
Thank you, that is how I interpret the codes. Just wanted to make sure that I was still legal in my city after some people I have known a long time mentioned some obscure "fact" they got from a LEO. Usually its not correct, but I am just wanting to be a responsible knife user and knowing the laws is my responsibility.


-Xander
 
I thought I should point out one specific point that you missed. The law does define deadly weapon, but 9.52.020 doesn't say all concealed carry of said weapon is illegal under Stockton's code. It says it's illegal to do so when loitering, fighting, or in places that sell alcohol. Mere EDC does not technically apply, and I would wager if you were engaged in those behaviors in the first place, that any openly carried knife would not make you look any better in the eyes of the law.

Because state law still applies (folders of any size open or concealed, fixed blade open only), it seems to me this Municipal Code has relative little affect other than yet one more charge to pile on if you're a hoodlum.
 
Apparently dangerous or deadly weapons (blades over 3" and guns) are not allowed in automobiles unless being transported in good faith to/from work, trade or business, or sport/recreation. This is why my EDC folder is a hair under 3"
 
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