Can You Bring a Gun into South Carolina Airports?
There are many valid reasons to carry a gun in South Carolina. While most licensed firearm owners purchased their guns with honorable intentions, there are still state and federal laws in place to protect against violence in public spaces, including airports.
While there are many cases where airline passengers can find themselves needing to transport their firearms with them during flights. It’s imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the strict legal protections in place to avoid reaping unintended criminal penalties.
Keep reading to learn more about carrying a firearm in South Carolina airports.
Understanding Firearm Laws in South Carolina
In South Carolina, gun and firearm laws are multifaceted to encompass a wide range of scenarios. Key takeaways for gun ownership and possession include:
- Concealed Weapons – As a “shall-issue state,” South Carolina permits gun owners to carry concealed weapons with a permit issued by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
- Permit to Purchase – South Carolina does not require a permit to purchase handguns, rifles, or long guns from a licensed dealer in-state.
- Open Carry – As of 2021, the state of South Carolina permits the open carry of concealed weapons.
- Reciprocity – A resident of a reciprocal state carrying a concealable weapon in South Carolina is subject to and must abide by the laws of South Carolina.
- Vehicle Carry – South Carolina law allows concealed weapons permit (CWP) holders to openly carry a concealable weapon in their vehicle.
- Ammunition Capacity Restrictions – South Carolina does not have a law restricting large-capacity ammunition magazines.
- Prohibitions – South Carolina has prohibitions that apply to all firearms and ammunition, including the possession, carrying or having readily accessible a loaded centerfire rifle, or shotgun loaded with a shot.
Firearms in the Airport: Legal or Illegal?
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), firearms are prohibited in carry-on bags in South Carolina airports. However, licensed carriers can transport their guns in checked bags so long as they’re unloaded, properly packed, and declared to the airline.
It is illegal to carry a firearm into an airport terminal in South Carolina. This applies even if you have a concealed weapons permit. Violating this law can lead to criminal charges. It's important to note that firearm possession laws vary by state and locality, so passengers should familiarize themselves with the laws pertaining to the possession of firearms (as well as the carrying of firearms) in the areas they will be traveling to and from.
Penalties for Firearm Violations in SC Airports
In South Carolina, carrying a firearm into an airport can result in serious criminal penalties. The exact consequences depend on the specifics of the violation and whether it's a first or repeated offense.
A first offense of criminal trespass, which includes bringing a gun through airport security, can result in a $200 fine and/or 30 days in jail. Repeated offenses can lead to higher fines and longer jail sentences, and potentially a permanent criminal record.
Generally, the TSA imposes the following penalties for firearm violations discovered at checkpoints:
- $390 to $2,250 in fines for BB, pellet, and compressed-air guns, flare and starter pistols, realistic replicas of firearms (including gun lighters), permanently inert firearms, spear guns, stun guns, cattle prods, and other shocking devices
- $8,960 to $14,950 in fines and a criminal referral for blasting caps, dynamite, gunpowder (more than 10 oz.), hand grenades, plastic explosives, and other high explosives
- $320 to $2,250 in fines for consumer fireworks, novelty fireworks, professional display fireworks, flares, and gunpowder (10 oz. or less)
- $3,000 to $10,700 in fines and a criminal referral for first-time violations entailing loaded firearms or unloaded firearms with accessible ammunition (or $14,950 in fines and a criminal referral for repeat violations)
- $1,500 to $5,370 in fines and a criminal referral for unloaded firearms
The following penalties apply to prohibited items discovered in checked baggage:
- $8,960 to $14,950 in fines and a criminal referral for blasting caps, dynamite, gunpowder (more than 10 oz.), hand grenades, plastic explosives, and all other high explosives
- $390 to $2,250 in fines for consumer fireworks, novelty fireworks, professional display fireworks, flares, and gunpowder (10 oz. or less)
- $1,490 to $2,990 in fines and a criminal referral for loaded firearms
- $740 to $3,720 in fines and a criminal referral for realistic replicas of explosives and inert hand grenades
- $740 to $1,490 in fines for undeclared and/or improperly packaged firearms and modified starter pistols
- $390 to $2,250 in fines for undeclared and/or improperly packaged silencers, mufflers, frames, and receivers
Remember, it’s imperative to speak with a trusted criminal defense attorney as soon as possible when facing any sort of criminal charge for firearm violations. Your lawyer can evaluate the unique details of your case and recommend the best legal recourse to drop or reduce the charges against you.
Secure an Aggressive Defense in Lexington, SC
Being accused of a crime can be a terrifying experience. It’s imperative to build a strong defense as soon as possible, as even innocent people can reap serious consequences if convicted of a crime. Fortunately, our skilled advocates at the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC have extensive experience defending the accused in Lexington and beyond. Whether you’re facing charges for domestic violence or traffic violations, our firm has the in-depth knowledge necessary to clear your name and restore your hard-earned reputation.
Accused of a crime in South Carolina? Turn to an attorney who will fight tirelessly to restore your freedom. Call (803) 359-3301 to request a free consultation.