By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Jeff Burtka, Esq. | Last reviewed June 08, 2021
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
States have the ability to craft their own gun control laws that limit the purchase and use of firearms. While the Second Amendment can protect the right to own certain arms, some weapons and accessories are illegal under South Carolina law. The state has no waiting period for prospective gun buyers but does enforce certain eligibility requirements for gun ownership.
The chart below highlights some of South Carolina's gun control laws.
Relevant Statutes (Laws) |
South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 16, Chapter 23, Sections 16-23-10 through 16-23-530
|
|---|---|
Illegal Arms |
The following firearms are illegal in South Carolina:
|
Waiting Period |
There is no waiting period to purchase a gun in South Carolina. |
Who May Not Own |
It is illegal to possess a handgun if a person:
|
License Required? |
A license is not required to own a gun in South Carolina. |
Concealed Carry License Required? |
In general, South Carolina requires people to have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. There are a few exceptions to the permit requirement, including licensed hunters while engaged in hunting and law enforcement officers. |
Open Carried Allowed? |
Open carry generally is not allowed in South Carolina. Beginning August 16, 2021, a person can openly carry a gun if they have a concealed weapon permit. |
Eligibility for a Concealed Carry License |
A person is eligible for a concealed carry permit in South Carolina if they:
|
Machine Gun Laws |
It is unlawful to transport or possess a machine gun in South Carolina. |
Penalties for Illegal Firearm Possession |
South Carolina's penalties for illegal firearm possession vary.
|
Penalties for Illegal Possession on or Near School Grounds |
Illegal possession of a firearm on school grounds is a felony punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment and up to a $5,000 fine. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Everyone has different circumstances, and state laws change. If you have questions about your compliance with South Carolina's gun laws, consider consulting with an attorney licensed in South Carolina. An attorney also can represent you if you are charged with a crime or if you want to recover a seized gun.
Was this helpful?
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many South Carolina attorneys offer free consultations.