Are Folding Knives Legal in California?

Folding knives are generally legal to own and carry in California, but certain restrictions apply depending on the blade length and how the knife is carried. The state law differentiates between types of knives and their intended use, making it important to understand the specific rules.

California’s knife laws are complex and can vary by city or county. While federal law provides some baseline regulations, state law primarily governs the legality of folding knives for residents and visitors alike.

Is It Legal to Own or Use Folding Knives in California?

Yes, folding knives are legal to own and use in California, but legality depends on blade length and carry method. Most folding knives with blades under a certain length are allowed for general use.

• Folding knives with blades under 2 inches are generally legal to carry openly or concealed without a permit in California.

• Knives with blades longer than 2 inches may face restrictions, especially if carried concealed or in certain locations.

• Switchblades and automatic knives with blades longer than 2 inches are illegal to carry but may be owned under specific conditions.

• Carrying a folding knife for self-defense is subject to legal scrutiny and may be considered unlawful if used improperly.

Understanding these distinctions helps knife owners comply with California law and avoid legal trouble.

What Does California State Law Say About Folding Knives?

California law regulates folding knives primarily through blade length restrictions and carry rules. The Penal Code specifies which knives are legal to carry and under what circumstances.

• Penal Code Section 17235 defines switchblades and prohibits carrying them if the blade exceeds 2 inches.

• Folding knives with blades under 2 inches are generally exempt from concealed carry restrictions.

• Local ordinances may impose stricter rules, so compliance requires checking city or county laws.

• Possession of folding knives is legal, but use in a threatening manner can lead to criminal charges.

These regulations aim to balance public safety with individual rights to own and carry knives.

Does Federal Law Affect the Legality of Folding Knives in California?

Federal law sets some baseline restrictions on knives, but generally defers to state law for folding knives. Certain federal statutes apply mainly to switchblades and knives crossing state lines.

• The Federal Switchblade Act restricts the manufacture and interstate shipment of switchblades, but does not ban possession within states.

• Federal law does not prohibit folding knives with blades under 2 inches, leaving regulation to California law.

• Air travel with knives is regulated federally, with TSA rules prohibiting knives in carry-on luggage.

• Federal law enforcement agencies may have their own policies, but state law governs civilian possession and use.

Thus, federal law generally supports California’s restrictions without overriding them.

Which Law Applies in Common Real-World Scenarios?

Different scenarios affect which laws apply to folding knives in California. Knowing the applicable law helps avoid violations.

• Owning a folding knife at home is legal under state law, with no blade length restrictions for possession.

• Buying folding knives online is legal, but shipping switchblades or knives over 2 inches may be restricted federally or by seller policies.

• Transporting folding knives across state lines requires compliance with both California and the destination state’s laws.

• Using folding knives on private property is generally legal unless prohibited by property owner rules.

• Carrying folding knives in public is subject to blade length and carry method restrictions under California law.

Each situation requires awareness of both state and local regulations to ensure compliance.

Restrictions and Conditions You Must Follow

California imposes several restrictions on folding knives, including blade length limits and carry rules. Understanding these conditions is essential.

• Blade length for legal concealed carry of folding knives is generally limited to 2 inches or less.

• Automatic or switchblade knives with blades longer than 2 inches are illegal to carry and may be illegal to own in some cases.

• Minors under 18 are generally prohibited from possessing knives capable of causing injury.

• Certain locations, such as schools and government buildings, ban carrying any knives regardless of type.

• Carrying knives with intent to use unlawfully can lead to criminal charges regardless of blade length.

Following these restrictions helps individuals avoid legal penalties and ensures responsible knife ownership.

Penalties for Violating the Law in California

Violating California’s folding knife laws can result in civil and criminal penalties, ranging from fines to imprisonment depending on the offense.

• Carrying illegal knives such as switchblades over 2 inches can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on circumstances.

• Possession of knives on school grounds or restricted areas can lead to criminal charges and confiscation.

• Using a folding knife unlawfully, such as in a threatening manner, can result in assault charges and harsher penalties.

• Fines for knife law violations vary but can reach several thousand dollars plus probation or jail time.

Law enforcement typically begins with confiscation and warnings but may escalate to prosecution for serious violations.

Common Situations Where People Get Confused

Many people misunderstand folding knife laws in California, especially regarding carry and ownership distinctions.

• Owning a folding knife is legal, but carrying it concealed with a blade over 2 inches is often illegal.

• Switchblades are often confused with regular folding knives, but they face stricter restrictions.

• Purchasing knives online may be legal, but shipping restrictions and local laws can complicate possession.

• Traveling with knives across state lines requires knowledge of both origin and destination laws to avoid violations.

Clarifying these points helps knife owners stay within legal boundaries.

Recent Legal Changes or Court Decisions

California’s folding knife laws have seen few recent changes, with the core regulations remaining stable.

• No major legislative changes affecting folding knife legality have occurred in the past few years.

• Court decisions have generally upheld existing blade length restrictions and carry rules.

• Some local jurisdictions have updated ordinances, but state law remains the primary authority.

• Ongoing debates about knife laws continue, but no new statewide reforms have been enacted as of 2026.

Staying informed about local updates remains important for compliance.

Practical Examples

If you live in California and carry a folding knife with a 1.5-inch blade, you can legally carry it concealed without a permit, provided you do not use it unlawfully.

• If you bought a folding knife with a 3-inch blade in another state and bring it into California, carrying it concealed may be illegal, and possession could be restricted depending on local laws.

• Carrying a switchblade with a blade longer than 2 inches in public in California is illegal, even if purchased legally elsewhere.

These examples illustrate the importance of understanding both possession and carry laws in California.

Conclusion

Folding knives are generally legal to own and carry in California, especially if the blade is under 2 inches. However, restrictions on blade length, carry methods, and locations apply and must be carefully followed.

Because knife laws vary by locality and can be complex, individuals should verify both state and local regulations before purchasing or carrying folding knives. Staying informed helps avoid penalties and ensures responsible knife ownership in California.

FAQs

Can I carry a folding knife with a blade longer than 2 inches in California?

Generally, carrying a folding knife with a blade longer than 2 inches concealed is illegal in California. Open carry may be allowed in some areas, but local laws can vary. Always check local ordinances before carrying.

Are switchblade knives legal to own or carry in California?

Switchblade knives with blades longer than 2 inches are illegal to carry and may be illegal to own in California. Smaller switchblades may be legal to own but not carry. Restrictions are strict due to safety concerns.

Can minors possess folding knives in California?

Minors under 18 are generally prohibited from possessing knives capable of causing injury, including most folding knives. Exceptions may apply for work or recreational purposes with parental consent.

Is it legal to buy folding knives online and have them shipped to California?

Buying folding knives online is legal, but shipping switchblades or knives with blades over 2 inches may be restricted. Sellers often comply with federal and state laws to avoid illegal shipments.

Can I carry a folding knife on school property in California?

No, carrying any knife on school property is prohibited in California. Violations can result in criminal charges regardless of blade length or knife type.