San Bernardino Firearm Permits, Storage & Discharge

Public Safety California 4 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

In San Bernardino, California, local rules and state law together govern firearm permits, safe storage, and the discharge of weapons. This guide summarizes where the city’s municipal code and local enforcement intersect with state permit processes, how to report unsafe storage or illegal discharge, and practical steps for residents to comply and seek review.

Permits & Local Rules

The City of San Bernardino refers to the municipal code for local regulations and relies on county and state agencies for concealed-carry permits. For the text of municipal ordinances, consult the City of San Bernardino municipal code. Municipal Code[1]

  • CCW and concealed-carry permits are issued at the county or state level, not by the city; see state guidance for permit requirements. California DOJ CCW info[3]
  • The San Bernardino Police Department enforces public-safety rules and responds to discharge incidents; contact the department for complaints and reports. San Bernardino Police Department[2]

Storage & Safe Handling

The municipal code and state statutes may set duties for secure storage to prevent access by minors or prohibited persons; specific local storage provisions and any city-level requirements should be confirmed in the municipal code. Municipal Code[1]

  • Store firearms unloaded and locked when not in authorized use.
  • Store ammunition separately from firearms where reasonably possible.
  • Use approved locking devices or safes and retain proof of purchase and model for records.
Follow manufacturer guidance and consider certified gun safes for secure on-premises storage.

Discharge Rules

Discharging a firearm within city limits is controlled by local ordinance and public-safety law; review the municipal code for precise prohibitions and location-based limits. Municipal Code[1] For immediate threats or active discharge, contact local law enforcement via the Police Department. San Bernardino Police Department[2]

  • Discharge in public places or into inhabited property is typically prohibited.
  • Use of firearms for hunting or target shooting may be restricted or require permits and designated ranges.

Penalties & Enforcement

Official penalty amounts, escalation rules, and specific sanctions for violations are set out in the controlling municipal code and applicable state statutes. Where amounts or graduated penalties are not listed on the cited pages, this guide notes that the precise figures are not specified on the cited page(s) below. Municipal Code[1] San Bernardino Police Department[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offenses): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions (orders, seizure, suspension, or court actions): not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: San Bernardino Police Department and authorized city code officers; report incidents to the Police Department contact page. Police contact[2]
  • Appeals and review routes: specific appeal procedures and time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Check the municipal code or contact the Police Department to confirm fines, time limits, and appeal steps.

Applications & Forms

City-level forms specifically for firearm permits are typically not issued; concealed-carry and permit forms are provided by state or county authorities. See the California DOJ CCW guidance for permit application steps, forms, and fee information. California DOJ CCW info[3]

  • If a city form exists, it will be published in the municipal code or on a city department page; not specified on the cited page.

FAQ

Do I need a city permit to own a firearm in San Bernardino?
No. Ownership is governed by state law; city regulations focus on storage and discharge rules. For permits to carry concealed weapons, consult state guidance. California DOJ CCW info[3]
Where can I report an illegal firearm discharge?
Report immediate danger by calling 911. For non-emergency reports, contact the San Bernardino Police Department through its official contact page. San Bernardino Police Department[2]
What are common violations residents should avoid?
Common issues include unsafe storage that allows access by minors, discharging firearms in prohibited areas, and carrying concealed weapons without proper permit; specific penalties are in the municipal code or state law and are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Call 911 if a firearm is being used unlawfully or someone is in immediate danger.
  2. For non-emergencies, contact the San Bernardino Police Department via its official contact page to report illegal discharge or unsafe storage.
  3. Preserve evidence when safe to do so: record location details, time, and any witness names; do not handle potential evidence.
  4. If applying for a carry permit, follow the California Department of Justice procedures and submit required forms and fees as specified by state or county authorities. California DOJ CCW info[3]

Key Takeaways

  • San Bernardino enforces discharge and safety rules; consult the municipal code for local provisions.
  • Permit issuance (CCW) is handled at county/state level, not by the city.
  • Report emergencies to 911; non-emergencies to the San Bernardino Police Department.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of San Bernardino Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of San Bernardino - Police Department
  3. [3] State of California - Department of Justice CCW Information

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